tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3276141514211871612024-03-14T02:44:03.946-05:00BOOK BEAT BABESYour Source For Tips,Trends, & Secrets in Books, Publishing, & Promo
As Reported by: Debra St.John, Christine Verstraete, Morgan Mandel, DL Larson, Terri Morris, & Margot Justes - Along with Special Guest Appearances! Morgan Mandelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118929301591850918noreply@blogger.comBlogger234125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-411871202467456392017-01-26T16:20:00.000-06:002017-01-26T16:20:25.846-06:00Grabbing Time To Write! by DL LarsonIn the last five years, my goals have shifted. I still write, I still pursue my writing career, and if I can scratch enough time together, I may even get a book published this year. But my life is busier than ever. Here are a few reasons why my goals have changed ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVvXIzxSqGZEgRzcFMV2__-AcjBbyel0F-ruU6XUsWsLYF6ejKXc3qWB8jNq8tXka9XzT91aR_dChYkQSx_mrTfcMLIxr5K59995rIM1Tu3OrDMmXinhKrU-LMCcRDAvOjm4aH-JPbdNqd/s1600/photo+%252839%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVvXIzxSqGZEgRzcFMV2__-AcjBbyel0F-ruU6XUsWsLYF6ejKXc3qWB8jNq8tXka9XzT91aR_dChYkQSx_mrTfcMLIxr5K59995rIM1Tu3OrDMmXinhKrU-LMCcRDAvOjm4aH-JPbdNqd/s320/photo+%252839%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
My grandkids!!!<br />
We're at an apple orchard in the above picture. We spent the day playing in a corn crib, on a bouncy trampoline, racing through a straw fort, and we enjoyed yummy apple donuts and cider. I came home exhausted, but had renewed energy to write the next day. Their energy depleted mine, or so I thought. Yet the next day I was eager to be at the computer to work on my WIP. I don't ever want to be remembered as the grandma who didn't have time for her grandkids. My goal to write on my day off is not set in stone anymore.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV1L6Pc2igRARLjhgQsspXxxHn3NQRH-9oe34BqTTyPstu_fxRhPfB0ckYHYK82oMtkyTs6708YDAp_y7R0qf2QrDVq4DzItwNU3VF2-tAv2_MfgfvdDPi_yqes55Cpwt_i9v4ipmNmLiU/s1600/photo+%252841%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV1L6Pc2igRARLjhgQsspXxxHn3NQRH-9oe34BqTTyPstu_fxRhPfB0ckYHYK82oMtkyTs6708YDAp_y7R0qf2QrDVq4DzItwNU3VF2-tAv2_MfgfvdDPi_yqes55Cpwt_i9v4ipmNmLiU/s320/photo+%252841%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Our entire family spent the day at Brookfield Zoo, after Christmas. Cold and beautiful. We had never visited the zoo in the winter. What an exhilarating experience. Our four little wild ones kept us moving and seeing more, more and still more.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ygsL4669rxJsake7xTBSv4YKEBPFDUvHGsJ_irEDveyBafnUJcwBgK8GaSMOvinUTUpMAxwBpp9BHZYU2b87BnvxvtOeZ5enjGMQ1qiatGEYzexyiRzoVD7NXR9D6txaCmCrqqGd06QZ/s1600/photo+%252842%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ygsL4669rxJsake7xTBSv4YKEBPFDUvHGsJ_irEDveyBafnUJcwBgK8GaSMOvinUTUpMAxwBpp9BHZYU2b87BnvxvtOeZ5enjGMQ1qiatGEYzexyiRzoVD7NXR9D6txaCmCrqqGd06QZ/s320/photo+%252842%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
These two pictures are of my older grandkids! They are tall, beautiful, young women now. They are extremely athletic and play sports year 'round. Sometimes more than one sport in a season. I've learned that bleachers feel pretty much the same whatever sport I'm watching. I try to make as many games as I can. And that's saying something when there are a couple games each week.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7RyIc6GX_uDYGShBW14-jykuVIeYlp3ajvOa3E3FTs47F-AT9oFTMhs2G4S9AfcKx_yxGmLvN_pf-RnVZD3P10YQuppeoqvdmck9XZnPff1MRqhyphenhyphenOMwt1pREv8mabsAkywY_6Zi8nYHFg/s1600/photo+%252843%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7RyIc6GX_uDYGShBW14-jykuVIeYlp3ajvOa3E3FTs47F-AT9oFTMhs2G4S9AfcKx_yxGmLvN_pf-RnVZD3P10YQuppeoqvdmck9XZnPff1MRqhyphenhyphenOMwt1pREv8mabsAkywY_6Zi8nYHFg/s320/photo+%252843%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I always thought when I got older, I'd have more time to write. I'd have more time to market my books. I thought I would ... I thought I would ... but I've learned in the most beautiful way, that families tend to grow. Growth is a beautiful thing, a busy thing, an exhausting thing. And there is no such animal called <i>spare time</i>. I have no spare time. I actually never did. But I have learned over time, I must grab the time and make it my own if I want to write.<br />
<br />
So this is my extent of writing for today. I'm off to pick up my father and take him to a basketball game where my granddaughters are playing. We'll sit on bleachers and cheer on our team. I had hoped to get the last of my editing done today, but that didn't happen.<br />
<br />
I'm determined to grab a few hours to write tomorrow.<br />
<br />
Wish me luck!<br />
<br />
'Til next time ~<br />
<br />
DL Larson<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www. DLLARSON.com</a><br />
<br />
<br />Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-76187342621560689542016-12-05T11:36:00.001-06:002016-12-05T11:41:37.736-06:00For Dog Lovers - Our Fur Babies is Now Available<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If you like dogs, you'll most likely relate to my first non-fiction ebook, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MTS3RVR">OUR FUR BABIES</a></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Available at Amazon, this book relates the experiences my husband and I have shared through adopting our beloved dogs. Complete with pictures, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MTS3RVR">OUR FUR BABIES</a> introduces the reader to each dog my husband and I've loved through our married years, starting with Sadie, the first, next Missy, on to Morgan (from whom I got my pen name), then Rascal, and lastly, our present fur baby, Buster.</span></span><br />
<div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsRTQDCViCMWK2f_ngLbs-NpyFkLsv8jnr_LPYbcpmL35xr2fwtNmX51TLj668hMY9IaOfAXFaaoJrYv64-Jr1BGqFhTjwWlVAWRew-FICqu6Avjnc50hpPFxlx_drnGDvk2u6p7Iz0FE/s320/coverjoyandpain.jpg" width="276" /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The cover picture, from long ago, features our first fur baby, Sadie. We look much younger there, than later, as the book progresses.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You may laugh or shed a tear or two reading this book, or perhaps you'll be inspired to adopt a dog of your own, if you haven't already done so. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">And, if you go for fiction, I also have a few other books, in which dogs play a prominent role. Check out<a href="http://a.co/iseszVg"> FOR THE LOVE OF DOG</a>, about an officer who takes drastic steps to keep his K9 companion. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Another one you might like is the romance,<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Her-Handyman-Perfect-Match-Book-ebook/dp/B0097EVXBK"> HER HANDYMAN</a>, about how a crazy canine's antics bring a handyman and popular artist together in an unlikely way.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Morgan Mandel</span></i></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Morgan Mandelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118929301591850918noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-56013123633008226612016-09-29T22:32:00.000-05:002016-09-29T22:32:03.729-05:00Looking forward to Oswego Literary Festival! by DL Larson Looking for something to do this Saturday? Stop by the Oswego Public Library.<br />
32 West Jefferson Street, Oswego, IL 60543<br />
Their annual Literary Festival takes place rain or shine, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.<br />
<br />
<img alt="Oswego Lit Fest" src="https://www.oswego.lib.il.us/adults/OswegoLiteraryFesthomepage-.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Local authors will be in attendance. Bring your checkbook, your credit card or cash!<br />
Support your local author by writing a review on Amazon.com<br />
<br />
<br />
Hope to see you there!<br />
<br />
DL Larson<br />
<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a><br />
<br />
twitter: @DL_storyteller<br />
<br />Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-12649395578952021362016-07-07T19:22:00.000-05:002016-07-07T19:22:48.996-05:00Follow-up on my Tweeting Experience! by DL LarsonIn my last blog I shared my attempts at tweeting for the first time. I posted five tweets, then later added one more: <span style="background-color: #f5f8fa; color: #292f33; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; line-height: 20.05pt;">One reporter. One
warrior priest. One werewolf. And one thief. A deadly dragon, a missing baby
and Savagers eat their prey.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f5f8fa; color: #292f33; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; line-height: 20.05pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f5f8fa; color: #292f33; line-height: 20.05pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I received 2 hearts, meaning two publishers were interested enough to ask for a query. I received three other hearts in my other pitches. Overall, I was delighted to have gotten some attention. </span></span><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa; color: #292f33; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 26.7333px;">Now, the work begins. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f5f8fa; color: #292f33; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 26.7333px;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;">I researched the various publishing houses. They all seemed legitimate and I felt my book could possibly fit within their interests. Most want the basic query and bio sent to them. A few want a synopsis and the first ten pages, others prefer the entire manuscript. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;">I will continue to research these publishing houses, and I will most likely send out a few queries. In the meantime, I have sent a query to a literary agent I have researched. I remarked that during the pitch fest, I drew interest from several publishers. I didn't name names, but I conveyed I have gained attention on my first pitch madness experience.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f5f8fa; color: #292f33; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 26.7333px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f5f8fa; color: #292f33; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 26.7333px;">Where will this get me? </span><br />
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;">I have no idea! But I'm learning as I go. Keeping up with social media is a full time job, and I wonder how writers find the time to write when so much is demanded of them elsewhere. Another thing that makes me smile ... I have a few followers on Twitter! They obviously know how twitter works better than I do. I believe it's another venue to gain followers on their site. It's a numbers game and I'm sadly behind, but at least I'm in the game.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;">'Til next time ~</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;">DL Larson</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;"><a href="https://twitter.com/DL_storyteller">DL_storyteller</a></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #292f33; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #f5f8fa;"><span style="line-height: 26.7333px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #f5f8fa; color: #292f33; font-family: Arial; line-height: 20.05pt;"><br /></span>
<div style="background: #F5F8FA; border-bottom: none; border-left: solid #E1E8ED 1.0pt; border-right: solid #E1E8ED 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-left-alt: solid #E1E8ED .75pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid #E1E8ED .75pt; padding: 0in 0in 0in 0in;">
<div class="tweettextsizetweettextsize--16pxjs-tweet-texttweet-text" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: none; line-height: 20.05pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; padding: 0in;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #292f33; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<span style="clip: rect(1px 1px 1px 1px); overflow: hidden;"><span aria-hidden="true" data-tweet-stat-count="0" style="display: inline-block;"></span></span>Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-16934094614682960622016-06-23T17:58:00.001-05:002016-06-23T17:58:30.896-05:00Tweeting for the First Time! by DL LarsonI've enrolled in a class for writers. I want to learn more about tweeting and twitter. Today I'm supposed to tweet 10 pitches. <i>Up to 10</i> pitches of my sci-fi romance. I feel as if tweeting is something kin to playing scrabble. I have 140 characters to explain my book. In that 140 characters, I must include #SFFPIt - the hashtag regarding the pitching that is going on today in the sci-fi genre. In that 140 characters, I must include what type of Sci-fi, so I included SFR. That stands for Science fiction romance. That takes 12 characters out of my 140 character limit.<br />
<br />
I angst over these pitches. I have a two-part book. Do I pitch the first part that leads into the second part? Or do I jump over the first part and attack the second part? I need a hook, a hero, a stake, and an inciting incident.<br />
OR ...<br />
I could have a hero, conflict, desire.<br />
Or ...<br />
I could have a hero, setup and a twist. You get the idea. The possibilities are numerous. But what is the best way to form the pieces together to entice an agent to want to see more? Only the writer can determine that. And that brings me right back to the angst part of my day.<br />
<br />
Last night our small community was hit with three tornadoes. Everyone is fine. Our home still stands, a machine shed was damaged and we have fields of damaged crops and standing water. We have been without electricity for 24 hours. We cleaned debris and tree limbs out of my daughter's yard. It took hours and hours and hours. And all the while I'm dragging branches and raking sticks and leaves, I'm trying to conjure up the perfect tweets for my book.<br />
<br />
I've only tweeted one so far today - because the electricity just came back on! I don't believe I have anything fantastic to offer. But for my first time at tweeting a pitch, I'm happy to have tried.<br />
<br />
Here they are:<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Courier New";">#SFFPIt
Wolf works nights. Ancestral spirits help him kill a dragon. The Lord heard his
plea. If only insanity could be cured so easily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Courier New;">This is within the 140 characters, but I didn't mention it was a romance. A colleague was confused by the Lord part. So I continued on with a different approach. He suggested I introduce Part 1 rather than part 2 (the above one is about part 2.)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Courier New;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Courier New";">#SFFPIt
#SFR Wade, a priest & killer, loves Rock 'n Roll. A snoopy reporter
tip-toes into his life. How can he fall for a human? Part 1-2<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Courier New";"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Courier New';">This one explains the beginning of my story, and hopefully the oddity of being a priest and a killer, and intrigued by a human. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New';"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Courier New";">#SFFPIt
#SFR Wade protects his werewolf prince. They are considered aliens on Earth. No
one knows they exist, except the enticing reporter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New';">Does this one show a bit of intrigue? I don't know. I'm still not happy with my pitch. But does it say enough to want to read another pitch? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New';"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Courier New";">#SFFPIt
#SFR Wade forgets he loves the human, Tracy. She fears the werewolf will kill
Wade because he's wounded from the dragon slaying. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New';">When a book has many layers, it's unclear to me which avenue will bring the most interest. But in this order, the pitches begin to form a story. Enough to attract an agent? I have no answer to that.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New';"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Courier New";">#SFFPIt
#SFR Wade knows the wolf better than anyone. Priestly chanters protect Wade
even though they can't stop Wolf from attacking him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New';">This will be my last pitch because I've run out of time. Maybe it will be enough to draw some interest. Either way, I've learned a great deal about twitter and tweeting. And I've learned pitching is intense and confining at the same time. Maybe that's the true purpose. How well can a writer tell her story?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New';"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New';">'Til next time ~</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New';"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New';">DL Larson</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New';"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New';">visit me on twitter: DL_storyteller</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-50307066948044048932016-05-12T10:17:00.000-05:002016-05-12T10:17:04.150-05:00Roald Dahl, A Tribute To His Legacy! by DL Larson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjcl7KH-Iow9c1IAHSjxByRfgpiAUgH7jb9QKitWjaDNwM76QQ2dqddru3Fl8AHvUBl6Lq4YkYeS6CtmZgsQuxRq3qHZ8oJ_BAPBoqbSndnDEN-IT54dCwZbwxZZzorIqGlB2hRxOlVKMw/s1600/mus_dahl1--JPG+%2528200x0%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjcl7KH-Iow9c1IAHSjxByRfgpiAUgH7jb9QKitWjaDNwM76QQ2dqddru3Fl8AHvUBl6Lq4YkYeS6CtmZgsQuxRq3qHZ8oJ_BAPBoqbSndnDEN-IT54dCwZbwxZZzorIqGlB2hRxOlVKMw/s320/mus_dahl1--JPG+%2528200x0%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This is a picture of Roald Dahl, author. He is known for many children's books. You may recall<i> James and the Giant Peach,</i> (1961) <i>Charlie and the Chocolate Factory </i>,(1964) <i>The Fantastic Mr. Fox,</i> (1970) <i>The BFG,</i> (1982) <i>Giraffe and Pelly and Me,</i> (1985)<i> Matilda</i>, (1988) and <i>My Year,</i> (1993) published after his death. The list goes on and on, but these are many of the American favorites.<br />
<br />
He didn't begin his writing career until after his children were born. He wrote in the small hut (pictured) at the edge of his garden. And my favorite, since I too favor this technique ... he wrote in pencil on yellow paper.<br />
<br />
Roald Dahl was born in Wales, 1916. He was a fighter pilot in WWII. Much of the world will celebrate his 100th birthday this summer. Disney has <i>The BFG </i>coming out in July, directed by Stephen Spielberg. If you'd like to watch the trailer, google: Disney's The BFG. The official trailer will come up.<br />
<br />
I received a poster at my library as a promotion for the upcoming movie. We still have the book, <i>The BFG,</i> in our classic section. I brought it home to read. The story comes to life immediately with an orphan girl being abducted by a giant. From there the action keeps going. I'm not quite finished, but I do believe the Queen of England will take a significant part in the resolution of the story.<br />
<br />
This book is exactly what I've been looking for my upcoming summer reading program. This book will fit nicely with our theme "Challenge Yourself - READ." The story is full of action, misunderstanding and misconceptions, with a 'try at all cost' emphasis. Dahl subtly shows the reader how narrow-minded we <i>human beans</i> are.<br />
<br />
Dahl reminds me of Dr. Seuss with his whimsical made-up words. In <i>The BFG,</i> the giant taught himself how to read, and although his speech pattern is a bit roughysided, he's understandable! It's scrumdillyious. And a twister to the tongue at times. Dahl created or made up 238 words in <i>The BFG</i>. He called it gobblefunk.<br />
<br />
Many of Dahl's books have become movies. He wrote the screenplay for <i>Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,</i> as well as <i>You Only Live Twice. </i>He wrote adult fiction, specializing in short stories for magazines. His work could be found in <i>Ladies Home Journal</i>, <i>The New Yorker,</i> <i>Playboy</i>, and many others.<br />
<i><br /></i>
Another thing I admire about Roald Dahl: Writing and English were not his best subjects in school. Oh, how I love hearing that about other authors. My English teachers in high school and college repeatedly told me I was too chatty with the readers. I believe I was blogging and didn't know it! Another told me it felt too much like a movie in her head. One of Roald's grammar school teachers wrote on his report card: "I have never met anybody who so persistently writes words meaning the exact opposite of what is intended." <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(taken from mentalfloss article/527-17/11) </span>Such is the life of a writer who prefers imagination over perfection.<br />
<br />
Roald began writing at a request from another writer, C.S. Forester, who was looking for a story about a soldier who had been on the front lines during the war. Dahl agreed to write something and ended up writing an article he called, "A Piece of Cake." He was paid $1,000. The title was changed, but not much else. The article came out as, "Shot Down Over Libya."<br />
<br />
Have you read any of Roald Dahl books? If so, what is your favorite? Have you seen any of the movies?<br />
Do you remember any of his jumbly words?<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAQDQHs0z72_pKDrgoe8qmDsr-gFlcDfFHi30qPpOt6JseB68oLY2aSJX0AyKpbhoScDCtGFVgv8kX4_30Zs6LrniOP87j-_drQUs9NoRc8pbYVu7cLVhXUxcHYJgfQzD7n7Ib9tJdCc34/s1600/The-BFG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAQDQHs0z72_pKDrgoe8qmDsr-gFlcDfFHi30qPpOt6JseB68oLY2aSJX0AyKpbhoScDCtGFVgv8kX4_30Zs6LrniOP87j-_drQUs9NoRc8pbYVu7cLVhXUxcHYJgfQzD7n7Ib9tJdCc34/s320/The-BFG.jpg" width="213" /></a><br />
'Til next time ~<br />
<br />
DL Larson<br />
<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-8258091815071574122016-04-28T17:32:00.000-05:002016-04-28T17:32:04.165-05:00Authors, Remember The Logistics of Pet OwnershipThe hubby and I are planning the logistics of our next trip to the cottage in Wisconsin. Much has happened since the last time we vacationed. The saddest of all was the deterioration of our Amstaff, Rascal, whom we'd loved for almost eleven years, and who crossed the Rainbow Bridge in November.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TjM0_rjnKbfVDfMi5Kh_MkzFtkkQa0owIBL2Egc7Ufo02MehAGa5td08gJMTkNkyLzylmAZWLKqhyyU5OoYQ5Pw2pnOxrBLVJ9EpSZxyB0oAWQdx_2ig4ZRGBoZhe91KClNoNjtxjWQ/s1600/2016-04-18+13.28.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TjM0_rjnKbfVDfMi5Kh_MkzFtkkQa0owIBL2Egc7Ufo02MehAGa5td08gJMTkNkyLzylmAZWLKqhyyU5OoYQ5Pw2pnOxrBLVJ9EpSZxyB0oAWQdx_2ig4ZRGBoZhe91KClNoNjtxjWQ/s320/2016-04-18+13.28.00.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
Happiest, was the addition of our Miniature Pinscher, Buster,whom we adopted shortly thereafter to take our minds off our loss, and to provide a home for an animal in need.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Rascal was getting up in years and had been with us since a puppy. She knew what was accepted and what wasn't. Two-and-a-half year old Buster, on the other hand, still needs training, although I must say, he does very well in obedience classes.Also, he's very adept at giving us kisses.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyway, we're figuring out our strategies ahead of time to keep our little animal safe, so we can all have a good time. When we're away from the cottage, we may need to put him in one of the bedrooms and close the door. That sounds like a possible solution, but, there are other matters to consider, such as blocking off any targets of exploration in that room, such as under the bed, where objects are stored. Then there's the dresser, above which is the TV, and underneath runs the cable and electric wires. We'll set up barriers and see if that will work. Otherwise, we may need to resort to placing him in a crate when we're gone. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Of course, we'll also need to keep him company and make him feel at home in the new environment, along with addressing his physical needs, such as walks, food and water.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Why am I mentioning this on a book blog? When writing fiction, it's important to make fiction seem authentic and believable. I enjoy reading books where dogs are included, and I also like watching movies where a pet plays a small or large role. However, often it seems a dog is added merely for decorative or emotional purposes, and the logistics of dog ownership are absent. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Matters such as where a pet is allowed to stay in the home and the reasons are not always revealed to the reader. What's even more irksome is when a book character gets up, and no mention is made about seeing to the animal's needs. Let the poor dog out, please, and give it some food and water!</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Instead, the book character leaves and goes about life trying to solve a mystery, or falling in love. Then, later, when the character deigns to come home, whatever time that may be, the animal sometimes is greeted, other times ignored, along with its needs. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, if you decide to add a dog or other pet in your book, remember that I and other pet owners are not happy if an imaginary animal is treated poorly. I beg you, when including a dog or other pet in your book, remember the logistics of pet ownership.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZczUgKQDGWEOn0q4-LozggVt5MgIOtBdHHpWfUUO3V9vxptU3NISveyfyzqmecr1wwH6exzazkzoW9sjzGjyPsSdWDzXI8h7yU4tANe5V28UD-Zm0B6jKpTanLqSXpgM5bm_Nr_4j0zI/s1600/mandrphoto+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZczUgKQDGWEOn0q4-LozggVt5MgIOtBdHHpWfUUO3V9vxptU3NISveyfyzqmecr1wwH6exzazkzoW9sjzGjyPsSdWDzXI8h7yU4tANe5V28UD-Zm0B6jKpTanLqSXpgM5bm_Nr_4j0zI/s200/mandrphoto+%25282%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">R.I.P. Rascal - Here she is in her younger<br /> years in the backyard with Morgan Mandel.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Find all of Morgan Mandel's books at</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel">http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also, find excerpts and descriptions at: <a href="http://morgansbooklinks.blogspot.com/">http://morgansbooklinks.blogspot.com</a></div>
<div>
Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/morgan.mandel">http://www.facebook.com/morgan.mandel</a></div>
<div>
Twitter: @Morgan Mandel</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Morgan Mandelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118929301591850918noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-2604495297465260032016-04-21T17:16:00.000-05:002016-04-21T17:16:22.473-05:00Remembering Long Ago Days & Raspberry Beret! by DL LarsonToday, we said 'good-bye' to a musical genius, Prince Roger Nelson. I remember him as Prince. "Mom! It's Prince, turn up the radio." And <i>Raspberry Beret </i>would blast through the speakers as we drove down the road. It was 1985 and my daughters loved Prince, or later, the musician, <i>Formerly Known as Prince. </i>It wasn't until 2000 that Prince got his name back. The dispute over his name escapes me now, but it was a BIG deal back in the '90s. Something about copyrights and money!<br />
<br />
I always worried my girls would all too easily understand the meaning behind that song. I suppose they did eventually. But the song drew vivid imaginings in my mind, I'm sure it did many young women. A young man and woman in an empty barn ... and a raspberry beret!<br />
<br />
<i>Purple Rain</i>, was the other big hit, I remember. It hit the charts in 1984. Saying good-bye and moving on was the theme to that song and I'm pretty sure I knew that one by heart, too. Please don't tell my daughters!<br />
I always pretended not to like him too much.<br />
<br />
Prince won seven Grammy Awards and had thirty nominations. Five of his singles topped the charts and fourteen others hit the Top 10. Prince is an Oscar Winner for best original song for <i>Purple Rain</i>.<br />
<br />
We had an upsurge of Prince in the early 2000's when my granddaughters discovered <i>Raspberry Beret</i>. I'm sure their mother had a lot to do with that. It felt as if I'd gone back in time when I heard from the back seat, "Grammie, put in the cd with Purple Rain." And then, "Let's listen to it again!" A new generation with just as much enthusiasm for this musical icon had modern technology to feed their impulses. On any given outing, I heard Purple Rain some dozen times. Okay, maybe not that many, but it was a lot!<br />
<br />
When a performer stretches beyond the generations, one knows they are listening to perfection. Prince had so many wonderful songs, always with a story. They were sexy, devout or fun. Sometimes all three in one song. He was a legend. He was a hero in our house. And he will be missed.<br />
<br />
Heaven is singing tonight! It's bound to be a fabulous time. I imagine there will be a lot of purple!<br />
<br />
'Til next time ~<br />
<br />
DL Larson<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-74297089621287787132016-04-06T09:15:00.001-05:002016-04-06T09:15:58.011-05:00New Mystery WebsiteI got inspired by a 50% off deal from Wix.com. I already had one website from them, which is <a href="http://morgandoeschicklit.com/">Morgan Does Chick Lit.Com</a>, and decided it was time to devote a separate website to my dark side, the one that compels me to write mysteries<br />
<br />
So, yesterday, <a href="http://morgandoesmystery.com/">Morgan Does Mystery.Com</a> was officially born. Nothing too fancy, just enough to get the word out about my mysteries without boring readers. Also, I happened to like the template background, which seemed kind of mysterious to me.<br />
<br />
If you get a chance, I invite you to check out my official mystery website. If you haven't popped over yet to my romance/chick lit one, by all means you're welcome there as well.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREPMC-4lPTOhBDjWG-8C_AhPWb8dTjDPp3fpWOiVTL4iyzn3FiE94LO-8-IjbAlCJbSlalcBl8y_3dI2tGSM7gUMmewuAtQQJ4GvUbrtO4cFPIIutigC9FH64Am9yydfvoOzYLQi-kaI/s1600/again1181602831_ShcgR-XL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREPMC-4lPTOhBDjWG-8C_AhPWb8dTjDPp3fpWOiVTL4iyzn3FiE94LO-8-IjbAlCJbSlalcBl8y_3dI2tGSM7gUMmewuAtQQJ4GvUbrtO4cFPIIutigC9FH64Am9yydfvoOzYLQi-kaI/s320/again1181602831_ShcgR-XL.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://morgandoesmystery.com/">http://morgandoesmystery.com</a><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel">http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Morgan Mandelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118929301591850918noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-59163646727692873562016-03-24T21:25:00.000-05:002016-03-24T21:25:00.891-05:00Searching for Integrity! by DL Larson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitXnoL_9MTc7UyCe4q4fwND6c7_WfLPV1T-vRsusl-qxf69JWPoXxeEvIp_V-mfh1wlO5d_hZjqbdzlArO2c-vr0SdjcJ3uqdjUsv46Hv8zs4ei11uoG84wWodn-vXgK0ojjjDPNjB4rpc/s1600/Easter+2016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitXnoL_9MTc7UyCe4q4fwND6c7_WfLPV1T-vRsusl-qxf69JWPoXxeEvIp_V-mfh1wlO5d_hZjqbdzlArO2c-vr0SdjcJ3uqdjUsv46Hv8zs4ei11uoG84wWodn-vXgK0ojjjDPNjB4rpc/s320/Easter+2016.JPG" width="181" /></a></div>
This picture was taken last week. My grandchildren and I had a good time painting Easter eggs. We look pretty carefree, yet I've been worrying quite a bit lately ... what does the future hold for our young ones? In the last six months there have been over sixty terrorists attacks around the world.<br />
<br />
I know this blog is supposed to be non-political and non-religious. But I can't help wondering if all these polite rules have been a hindrance to us as a nation. <i>'Don't talk politics or religion in polite company.' </i> I grew up hearing this rule over and over. I tried to adhere to it most of my life, and I wonder if I should have stood up long before now to say, <i>'where has that attitude gotten us?'</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
As a writer, I want to express my frustrations, yet there seems to be so many problems facing us as a nation, I'm ashamed I haven't spoken out sooner. I speak as a wife, mother and grandmother, neither Republican nor Democrat. I'm not a very political person, but I want my country strong so my grandchildren will inherit a great country, not one that has slid into despair and desolation.<br />
<br />
I want my politicians to have integrity. That's right. It really boils down to that. Where has the integrity of the government gone? I realize a public entity may not hold personal values, but the people who are in charge sure should. It's one of the main ingredients that made this nation great. It's all but disappeared and we, the people, let it slip away because we've all been so blessedly polite. Or maybe we weren't paying attention when we should have been keeping a closer eye on our government and its actions.<br />
<br />
I want my government to take action in protecting our borders. I want an easier avenue to citizenship for those who are here illegally and want to stay. I relate this to some young man or woman stepping out of the closet and admitting to the world they are homosexual. The world didn't end with their confession. Their life changed, and I pray, for the better. No more secrets. Illegal immigrants need a path to become a working, thriving part of our nation.<br />
<br />
I want our soldiers to receive the benefits they need and deserve. The fact that our congressmen and senators have lifelong benefits and our soldiers don't, irks me. This is wrong. We hear VA hospitals are helping out more and improving. I personally know they have not in my area. Let us not grow lazy in believing the propaganda that is being delivered to us by the very folks that allowed it to happen in the first place.<br />
<br />
I want a safer world, free of tyranny and terrorists. I know I'm asking for the moon, but if integrity were instilled to all at a young age, maybe our world would not be littered with this disease of '<i>my way or no way.' </i>Perhaps we would learn to tolerate our differences. Perhaps we could be happy with our own chunk of the world and not believe we are entitled to take more without asking.<br />
<br />
Book Beat Babes is a group of writers with followers who are mainly writers. So I challenge you, start writing to your Congressmen, your Representatives and Senators. Make your values known. Be attentive to the world around you. Speak up. It's time ~ way past time ~ we start using our talents to let our thoughts be known in a public way.<br />
<br />
Below is an web address to the Federal Representatives. It lists all by state.<br />
<a href="http://www.house.gov/representatives/">http://www.house.gov/representatives/</a><br />
Here is a site for Senators:<br />
<a href="http://www.senate.gov/senators/contact/">http://www.senate.gov/senators/contact/</a><br />
<br />
Speaking up is scary. But as writers, we have the tools to start a conversation that could bring about change. I want a secure future for my grand kids. I don't want them growing up with threats of terrorism, bombs in public places, or afraid to play in their backyard for fear of what might happen if a car drives by. Stray bullets and angry mobs will not fix our problems. Integrity, even in small doses, feeds the conscious to act more civilly. It's a small, but significant step toward a brighter future.<br />
<br />
'Til next time ~<br />
<br />
DL Larson<br />
<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-67396532055450586332016-03-10T15:20:00.000-06:002016-03-10T15:20:53.484-06:00Beware of Rip-Off Agencies! by DL LarsonI've been searching for possible agents and publishers lately. I've come across at least a dozen who are closed to submissions. Sigh ... it's frustrating yes, to finally find a possible agency that might fit my type of writing, only to find the door closed before I've had a chance to inquire.<br />
<br />
I also found a few disturbing remarks. Yes, most don't bother returning a 'no thank you, not interested' note. I came to terms with that long ago. Others want only inquiries that have been sent solely to them and no one else. They state they will respond within four to six months. Really? Still? In this day and age. I don't know anyone who actually believes this anymore. I used to play by the rules and wait and wait ... and wait, only to realize it was time to move on.<br />
<br />
The one that bothered me the most was on the Alloy Entertainment site. They sound reasonable and interested in hearing from all types of writers. That's wonderful, but this is from their Submission Guidelines:<br />
<br />
<ul style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #323232; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; list-style-image: none; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li style="border: 0px; font-style: inherit; line-height: 16px; margin: 5px 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-weight: inherit;"><strong>Submission Guidelines:</strong> We are evaluating full fiction manuscripts only—please, no scripts or fan-fiction. Please send us a query e-mail that contains a brief overview of the premise of your book and a short description of your writing background. In addition, please include the first three chapters of your manuscript in a Word document, as well as a link to your book or Goodreads page if you’ve already self-published the book. And, agents, feel free to get in touch for your clients! We cannot accept submissions from legal minors. Please note that Alloy is constantly developing new titles. In light of the numerous submissions Alloy receives and Alloy’s own in-house development, </span><b>Alloy may already have (or may in the future) independently develop a project based upon an idea or theme that is identical or similar to your material, and you acknowledge that you will have no interest or claim therein.</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px;">It's the last sentence I have an issue with. It sounds dangerously close to stealing. They may not like your work, but they like your theme, your plot, your characters. Where does that leave you, the writer, if they steal your work? </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px;">Does anyone have a comment to share about this? I'd be very interested in hearing from other writers.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px;">'Til next time ~</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px;">DL Larson</span></span></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-81257582837386733982016-02-25T21:47:00.001-06:002016-02-25T21:47:35.114-06:00Want to stay healthy? by DL LarsonI don't generally write about health topics, but I want to share what I've discovered this winter. It's simple. It doesn't taste bad. It's not expensive. And ... It's all natural! I imagine my grandmother would have known about this remedy, but it was new to me.<br />
<br />
It started in my sinuses. No infection, just nagging stuffiness, congestion and the like. I didn't have a cold either. I rarely catch cold or the flu. But I coughed when I laughed or tried to carry on a conversation. It was irritating at first and then became a real nuisance. I appreciate the patience my co-workers showed with my persistent cough.<br />
<br />
I tried many remedies, none that worked. Then one day I saw an article about the wonders of honey and cinnamon. The combination of these two ingredients can and does solve many ailments. It cured my nagging cough. I made my husband take it as well for his asthma cough. It worked for that, too. The recipe called for 1 tablespoon of honey (raw is best) and 1/8 teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir the two together, heat in the microwave for a few seconds and spoon it into your mouth like cough syrup. Do this for three - five days. Best taken on an empty stomach.<br />
<br />
It worked! My cough is gone. And the better thing, my husband's asthma cough has disappeared. And let me tell you, that has been around for way toooo long!<br />
<br />
Honey and cinnamon have other benefits too. They are known to help with arthritis - 2 Tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon added to a cup of hot water. Best taken before breakfast. Taken daily, this helps relieve pain. Since I have RA, I've tried this, and it's pretty fantastic. The weather still affects me though, so it's not a cure all. But I didn't expect it to be. But help is help. Less pain is always a plus for me!<br />
<br />
For cholesterol control, use 2 Tablespoons of honey and 3 teaspoons of cinnamon with 16 ounces of tea or water. It reduces cholesterol levels within hours. This can be taken up to three times a day to keep cholesterol manageable. <br />
<br />
Upset stomach? Indigestion? Gas? Cinnamon and honey taken before eating, can relieve acidity and digests the heaviest of meals and relieves gas.<br />
<br />
A researcher in Spain proved that honey contains a natural ingredient that kills germs that cause the flu. Honey and cinnamon strengthens the white blood cells, which boosts the immune system. And the list goes on and on.<br />
<br />
If you're looking for a cure all, I don't have an answer to that, but if you want to boost your energy and feel healthier, try the honey and cinnamon remedy. Then you'll have the energy to write!<br />
<br />
'Til next time ~<br />
<br />
DL Larson<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a><br />
Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-23816703774166732792016-01-27T16:49:00.001-06:002016-01-27T16:49:57.844-06:00Mark Your Calendars for Wed, Feb 3 Hi Gang,<br />
<br />
Just to let you know, my interview of popular romance book cover model, Jason Aaron Baca, is set for Wednesday, February 3 at The Blood-Red Pencil Blog at <a href="http://bloodredpencil.blogspot.com/">http://bloodredpencil.blogspot.com</a>.<br />
<br />
Jason is on over 400 romance book covers and is closing in on Fabio's record.<br />
<br />
I hope you can join me over there next Wednesday. Here's a teaser picture from one of his book covers:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlc-StArI3AcyCzwOh7qJh73Qi5kFIn9n1wHRT6cuJKsqRNt529mj_Wooos4PELTnNE7eeGqTpVo6L8plzE7Be5PiRlWlD0p2Z-Ya4etxCfdrdl1gXXKJ5Flj9u83E73Clpke31B21V5Q/s1600/1b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlc-StArI3AcyCzwOh7qJh73Qi5kFIn9n1wHRT6cuJKsqRNt529mj_Wooos4PELTnNE7eeGqTpVo6L8plzE7Be5PiRlWlD0p2Z-Ya4etxCfdrdl1gXXKJ5Flj9u83E73Clpke31B21V5Q/s320/1b.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
And there's lots more pictures you'll see next Wednesday over there!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjymLCXAbsL4zUgSm06J_RtuqaFltJ3AHrooMEr1XwezU2onFGdWCYHfjC2ZX5HQcA06MUA_6fq7tJ26y_G2TRDb9U_YaQAo4hjhZ0GpSpA0BLJhBsFSfDiRoQvPWnKAFqGdkdAN7lc2Sw/s1600/Facebookpic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjymLCXAbsL4zUgSm06J_RtuqaFltJ3AHrooMEr1XwezU2onFGdWCYHfjC2ZX5HQcA06MUA_6fq7tJ26y_G2TRDb9U_YaQAo4hjhZ0GpSpA0BLJhBsFSfDiRoQvPWnKAFqGdkdAN7lc2Sw/s1600/Facebookpic.jpg" /></a></div>
Find all of Morgan Mandel's romances and mysteries at<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel">http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel</a><br />
<br />
Excerpts and links are also at:<br />
<a href="http://morgansbooklinks.blogspot.com/">http://morgansbooklinks.blogspot.com</a> <br />
<br />
Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/author/morgan.mandel">http://www.facebook.com/author/morgan.mandel</a><br />
<br />
Twitter: @MorganMandel<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Morgan Mandelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118929301591850918noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-70061433195902224842016-01-21T11:15:00.003-06:002016-01-21T11:15:52.360-06:00Adding Twists & Turns In Your Writing! by DL LarsonMy go-to book for writing has become Donald Maass's book, 'Writing 21st Century Fiction.' As many times as I read it, I always find new techniques to implement into my writing. Like adding twists and turns. I feel I add my share of twists and turns, but he encourages a writer to go beyond the expected and create something unexpected.<br />
<br />
Mr. Maass suggests to open your manuscript to any scene, then ask yourself, "what would blow the story sideways right now? Go for it."<br />
<br />
So I found a spot in my WIP that I thought was too much narrative and not enough action. I added the unexpected. BAM! It added flavor and a dash of ridiculousness to the scene. I loved it. My writers group at the time did not find it a reasonable change. Some said it mislead the readers at what that particular character was all about. I contemplated removing the addition. I changed my mind and kept it in. My unexpected twist opened up my story line and created a deeper layer of involvement than I had originally intended with that character. It gave that character a new purpose the reader had not been aware of previously. I hadn't realized this new twist would bring the character to life. What a pleasant surprise.<br />
<br />
Basically, I'm not telling you anything new. But this can serve as a reminder to not be too comfortable with your plot. Add the unexpected. Donald Maass suggests, "If the expected happens, change it. If nothing new is discovered, discover it and add it."<br />
<br />
That's great advice ~ for all of us!<br />
<br />
'Til next time ~<br />
<br />
DL Larson<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-58545805924737283852016-01-14T22:44:00.002-06:002016-01-14T22:44:48.754-06:00Good-bye to Alan Rickman! by DL Larson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkBNJs5rIbv4Qqx9TVJuSYLC6V71xWerFjBKNfrGqh2nrPxQXSHflHHFe87IcTMBb1Xgu55RBcZz1JAPUgN8C5e1T4cGW0BYXJZRG8GYOchTJhEmZko4YnfrZq8JPgqKHsLU3RzlZWhH4m/s1600/20160115-Rickman-Obituary-slide-21GA-jumbo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkBNJs5rIbv4Qqx9TVJuSYLC6V71xWerFjBKNfrGqh2nrPxQXSHflHHFe87IcTMBb1Xgu55RBcZz1JAPUgN8C5e1T4cGW0BYXJZRG8GYOchTJhEmZko4YnfrZq8JPgqKHsLU3RzlZWhH4m/s320/20160115-Rickman-Obituary-slide-21GA-jumbo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I'm sad this great actor has left us so soon. I first adored Alan Rickman when he played the Sheriff of Nottingham in <i>Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves, </i>starring with Kevin Costner. <br />
<br />
He was genius in his portrayal of nasty characters. And funny. Even likable. He had a way of revealing just enough of his character's hidden emotions to draw the viewer in.<br />
<br />
And I have to mention his part as Hans Gruber,<br />
in <i>Die Hard</i>, with Bruce Willis. A fabulous performance. He was a gifted criminal in front of the camera.<br />
<br />
Most of all, we remember Alan Rickman for his role as the Master of Potions, Professor Severus Snape, in the Harry Potter movies. What a wonderful, delightfully, frightening character. Having read all of the Harry Potter books, I know first hand what a magnificent job he did bringing Prof. Snape to life.<br />
<br />
Alan Rickman never received an Oscar for his performances, and he said something to the fact that, <i>'parts win prizes, not actors.'</i> How profound of him. I know as a writer, I would love to have someone of his caliber portray one of my characters. I imagine that is a dream of many writers ~ to have their work turned into a movie or play. Writers also strive for awards to show the world they are worthy, and folks should read more of their books. I don't believe I've ever come across a writer who would say, 'plots win prizes, not writers.' But then writers are a pretty insecure bunch. We dream of big characters, we rarely get to become one. Alan Rickman had the uncanny ability and opportunity to give a big character life. And we are all better for it.<br />
<br />
Rest in peace, Alan Rickman. You will be missed.<br />
<br />
'Til next time ~<br />
<br />
DL Larson<br />
<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a><br />
<br />
We at <i>Book Beat Babes</i> hope to get back in the swing of things and blog more regularly than we have these last several weeks. So please stop back soon.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-46291277431891024132015-12-24T13:07:00.001-06:002015-12-24T13:07:17.764-06:00Making Ready For Christmas! by DL Larson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvo2IJ8kmiQ4FIBy0VdQu1Qfe83oRjqXcC6_a-XZ-4Ho9W0uIcZ-9wDHBsKPGrFaa7sXo5Pcsd9gNvYdcnPDVsF-D31gN8EY0sIMEfYCYHpTvNS2wbq2yPIeWZU-GMrmB1cPE7lGfbLE_s/s1600/A%2526K+Charity+2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvo2IJ8kmiQ4FIBy0VdQu1Qfe83oRjqXcC6_a-XZ-4Ho9W0uIcZ-9wDHBsKPGrFaa7sXo5Pcsd9gNvYdcnPDVsF-D31gN8EY0sIMEfYCYHpTvNS2wbq2yPIeWZU-GMrmB1cPE7lGfbLE_s/s320/A%2526K+Charity+2015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><i> MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
My family and I have been busy all Christmas season. This photo is the result of a charity my granddaughters had during our annual Caroling Party. These fun gifts will go to a family of ten girls who live at Mooseheart Child City and School. The request was for simple craft projects for the girls to do throughout the winter. I believe the donations will make the young girls very happy! A BIG thank you to all our family and friends for helping make this Christmas idea a reality!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEichFAh_PhPmeUVtCBsNZPaEzHsTCicSQGgDE7Bh_x3pDx956eTxpZsCc6uPDmhZ4lL6Igc6dkAV32Cf3cDecuG2jcJg6f7IrW7xPXA2NfB6-kpULEQWsiVJnPZGXTIXMXj2aT1Mr0i0Itt/s1600/Tree+2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEichFAh_PhPmeUVtCBsNZPaEzHsTCicSQGgDE7Bh_x3pDx956eTxpZsCc6uPDmhZ4lL6Igc6dkAV32Cf3cDecuG2jcJg6f7IrW7xPXA2NfB6-kpULEQWsiVJnPZGXTIXMXj2aT1Mr0i0Itt/s320/Tree+2015.JPG" width="240" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the tree in my family room. My cat usually sits beneath it so he can look out the door. So far, he hasn't bothered climbing or exploring further. Let's hope he decides to be a good kitty for Christmas.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTYUP-FDdIaLfUTbkdjqPK_2MmhLAHBS1pCXD_OyFZzh-1blG5P-qRUrXV05PSrYOZc7QCWozW-mHf5QhjbXitDjeK9JfoxgXRYSMvJ0Ti8H53k0DjHwk1T95vHUdJyW0g-fxaaPVGqqT/s1600/Colton+%2526+me+Gingerbread+house+2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTYUP-FDdIaLfUTbkdjqPK_2MmhLAHBS1pCXD_OyFZzh-1blG5P-qRUrXV05PSrYOZc7QCWozW-mHf5QhjbXitDjeK9JfoxgXRYSMvJ0Ti8H53k0DjHwk1T95vHUdJyW0g-fxaaPVGqqT/s320/Colton+%2526+me+Gingerbread+house+2015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
My grandson Colton and I worked on our annual gingerbread house. I was in charge of frosting while Colton decorated. He did a great job and we only had to chase after a few pesky beads that fell on the floor.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa_czR3zUQl93DBKdvDzw3tQvkxVhkPRd3IpKyQ8D5gW1LVdK7wrx97hIfCYEbRU0YITfnsglyj8T6hVKIO0imrnBu-GZcdQmStTFyqV8KxoqYiZzagF0tnTqDpmKED5yt5Mzkp4MxJnd/s1600/Live+Nativity+2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa_czR3zUQl93DBKdvDzw3tQvkxVhkPRd3IpKyQ8D5gW1LVdK7wrx97hIfCYEbRU0YITfnsglyj8T6hVKIO0imrnBu-GZcdQmStTFyqV8KxoqYiZzagF0tnTqDpmKED5yt5Mzkp4MxJnd/s320/Live+Nativity+2015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This is a live nativity our church does each Advent. I was a shepherd this year. We had a few sheep and a donkey as well. We stand for 30 minutes while the Christmas story is told over a loud speaker. Then we head back into the Fellowship Hall for hot chocolate and goodies. This year we had three sessions. It always helps me to remember the true meaning of Christmas when I take time to participate in events like this one.<br />
<br />
I hope everyone has a safe and meaningful Christmas. Beyond the unwrapping of presents and feasting on wonderful meals, and spending time with loved ones, please take a moment to count your blessings. I bet they are plentiful! I know mine are.<br />
<br />
Merry Christmas!<br />
<br />
Happy Birthday Jesus!<br />
<br />
DL Larson<br />
<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a>Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-87104553530244294452015-12-09T15:43:00.000-06:002015-12-09T15:43:01.114-06:00Christmas Carol<b>If you missed it the first time around, Christmas Carol is still available to offer you some Christmas cheer. </b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDUWpci8FtePl7pnLC8b1Q7ccxLGXJFyvwxg9MmtauykyvT_SkGN-GqTusVjl_bAVgchimqts3XDosRYPrEMVolxSv0KRQ6ftEhH014PUnGU478rmzIJ81faM4pYh0Ml6FT8dHwETMJA/s320/ChristmasCarol69b3c015-c67d-46b3-a6b5-2df89ae32ae4.jpg" width="201" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://amzn.com/B00R20N0B2">http://amzn.com/B00R20N0B2</a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<b>What it's about: </b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;">Stranded for the Holidays in a snowstorm, famous author, Blake Dugan, discovers the true meaning of life and love through a waitress with the unique name of Christmas Carol.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;"> </span></b><br />
<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;">And here's the link again:</span></b><br />
<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><b><a href="http://amzn.com/B00R20N0B2">http://amzn.com/B00R20N0B2</a></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywxZVAjBb2s5neeqZxH5NBs9lS2Y4ao8-HIvxrjtpYKNm3mt2BoZavGk-zv7oSdci8vuRXlmT4fvXCKZgVyU4lSP-TTi0hj1VeyNdpLahrah7CfP3xGtsr3q8nDVjZZAMVVGE113tJOo/s1600/50percentsmallprofileIMG_0021_Internet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywxZVAjBb2s5neeqZxH5NBs9lS2Y4ao8-HIvxrjtpYKNm3mt2BoZavGk-zv7oSdci8vuRXlmT4fvXCKZgVyU4lSP-TTi0hj1VeyNdpLahrah7CfP3xGtsr3q8nDVjZZAMVVGE113tJOo/s1600/50percentsmallprofileIMG_0021_Internet.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">Find all of my books at my Amazon Page: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel">http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel</a></span><br />
<br />
Excerpts and buy links also at: <a href="http://morgansbooklinks.blogspot.com/">http://morgansbooklinks.blogspot.com</a><br />
<br />
Catch me on Facebook at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/morgan.mandel">http://www.facebook.com/morgan.mandel</a><br />
<br />
Twitter: @MorganMandel<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span>
Morgan Mandelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118929301591850918noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-4138768675165779352015-12-03T11:09:00.000-06:002015-12-03T11:09:25.235-06:00Sharing the Heartache! by DL LarsonI learned a few days ago a college friend passed away. Her name was Jean. We called her Jeanie-Beanie. I remember Jeanie had a bright smile and a hearty laugh. She lost a leg due to cancer while we were still in college. I remember sitting on a swing set with her on a bright winter's day. It was before her surgery. We were in South Park, Quincy IL. It's a great park, with rolling hills and a small stream snaking in and around the grounds. The snow crunched beneath our feet as we made our way to the swings that day.<br />
<br />
Her disease was the first time I encountered that hideous word: cancer. She told me she had two choices.<br />
1. Save the leg and have a very short life.<br />
or:<br />
2. Say good-bye to her leg and hope for a long life.<br />
<br />
Jeanie sang at my wedding. She'd never sung in public before. But I knew she could do it with ease. She sang, 'Let There Be Peace,' and 'The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face.' I can still remember her rich, alto voice. Jeanie sang at dozens of weddings after mine. She once told me she'd never considered singing in public until I asked her to sing at my wedding.<br />
<br />
I wish I could say Jeanie had an easy life. But health problems plagued her. Still, she found happiness in her marriage to Larry and enjoyed her many nieces and nephews. And friends. Jeanie was a special friend to so many. Her heart was big and her love for life enormous.<br />
<br />
I can well imagine how she was received in heaven. "Oh, here she comes!" "We've been waiting for you." "Welcome home, Jeanie!"<br />
<br />
I hope my reflection on Jeanie's life will remind writers that characters can have real life issues. This is where many readers relate to the character(s). If you are searching for a unique character in your next story, consider someone like Jeanie. She had many physical problems in this world, but her zest for life didn't waver. Her compassion for others outshone her illness. And she left cancer to wither a slow death on its own.<br />
<br />
"Far out, Jeanie Beanie! Far out! You silly rabbit."<br />
<br />
'Til next time ~<br />
<br />
DL Larson<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-3439510377908534012015-12-02T18:28:00.004-06:002015-12-02T18:29:37.739-06:00HAILEY'S CHANCE - FREEBIE ON DEC 4, 5, 6 (FRI, SAT, SUN)Come and get your free copy of <a href="http://amzn.com/B013D2FB78">Hailey's Chance: Will Baby Make 3?</a><br />
This event will happen on Dec 4, 5 and 6 (Fri, Sat, Sun)<br />
Here's the link: <a href="http://amzn.com/B013D2FB78" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">http://amzn.com/B013D2FB78</a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #111111; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsLuaHQNSKfRtguNU3I4i3sGKJ2hlKllgAFHE9z3oNlpPGbayTqDfWf9_nbz0mqLMNHA0QW3n9-pa2u0cXu74gcUqGFT3WtMUb3EkN0PaJrAxD_yYcgR7UXVSfPX-rabCfjawx3QBtTRU/s1600/HAILEY%2527S+CHANCE+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsLuaHQNSKfRtguNU3I4i3sGKJ2hlKllgAFHE9z3oNlpPGbayTqDfWf9_nbz0mqLMNHA0QW3n9-pa2u0cXu74gcUqGFT3WtMUb3EkN0PaJrAxD_yYcgR7UXVSfPX-rabCfjawx3QBtTRU/s320/HAILEY%2527S+CHANCE+-+Copy.jpg" width="237" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://amzn.com/B013D2FB78">Hailey's Chance</a> is the prequel to the romance, <a href="http://amzn.com/B00R20N0B2">Christmas Carol</a>. Both books are set in the fictional town of Deerview, Wisconsin, but the main characters are different.<br />
<br />
WHAT IT'S ABOUT:<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
What's one woman's curse could be another's blessing.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happily expecting her first child, Hailey is unprepared for
the deadly storm which tears apart her hopes and dreams. Lost in grief, she's
startled by her neighbor's suggestion. What's proposed could bring joy or
heartbreak. Should she take the chance?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you like this book, I'd appreciate your writing a very brief review on Amazon.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And, if you really like this book, you might want to read the 99 cent romance, <a href="http://amzn.com/B00R20N0B2">Christmas Carol</a>, this holiday season.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*These two books are also presently enrolled in the Kindle Unlimited program.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkVf75u89X1zyFtOoVcaHDtf7NNJVbRB4wvKu_1i09U2Khs3_V4VQYXLO75mhQl9rb09MB4r8_x7WN6Vsk6gTSoKhNwWH8NCL1JmHUp4Q907aauYlxtLK9xdoUMuo8-pmdJhiAZkO4eaA/s1600/MorganPromo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkVf75u89X1zyFtOoVcaHDtf7NNJVbRB4wvKu_1i09U2Khs3_V4VQYXLO75mhQl9rb09MB4r8_x7WN6Vsk6gTSoKhNwWH8NCL1JmHUp4Q907aauYlxtLK9xdoUMuo8-pmdJhiAZkO4eaA/s320/MorganPromo.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Come follow me on Facebook at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/morgan.mandel">http://www.facebook.com/morgan.mandel</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Twitter: @MorganMandel</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All of my books are on Amazon at:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel">http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Links & excerpts are all at: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://morgansbooklinks.blogspot.com/">http://morgansbooklinks.blogspot.com</a> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Morgan Mandelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118929301591850918noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-61936794794928230792015-11-18T19:37:00.000-06:002015-11-18T19:37:19.336-06:00What Kind of Job Does Your Hero or Heroine Have?<span style="font-size: large;">Painting a picture of a hero or heroine very often involves deciding on a job or a good reason why that person doesn't have one. Here are a few examples from my own books:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwey5mtL8ajGUTqEBkc3qQ6F64Luszxjvy4nm8IAAjT7rctS-e9FAasoYMt9TjBtW9BA7MWqSUR6bECrME5KX7_gnHYp2aNbcEMhQc10LlM8hYuxU18p8dYiRlUY_m8YWyaIN_u7-8HQ/s1600/TWOWRONGSFINAL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwey5mtL8ajGUTqEBkc3qQ6F64Luszxjvy4nm8IAAjT7rctS-e9FAasoYMt9TjBtW9BA7MWqSUR6bECrME5KX7_gnHYp2aNbcEMhQc10LlM8hYuxU18p8dYiRlUY_m8YWyaIN_u7-8HQ/s200/TWOWRONGSFINAL.jpg" width="146" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">1. A famous occupation - This is one of my favorites. Right away, the reader can guess the hero must be a cut above the average Joe. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In <a href="http://amzn.com/B006LSE4FC">Two Wrongs</a>, my first book, the hero is in college, but is so great at basketball he turns pro. By the way, this book is still free at <span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://amzn.com/B006LSE4FC">http://amzn.com/B006LSE4FC</a>.</span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8oNUotfKW4fgx4oaP4agYLTLG3KLMqzjPyVgFtrvXqQ9qgd7VUPThfFR-BtuqvowqYUvWmfVJda932qm968sp4AIktYLP4BRaUXM7EHpqOyFiLScmq1T03uk8a_mlu5wvakpbqRiRdE/s1600/300KILLER+CAREER+2013newcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8oNUotfKW4fgx4oaP4agYLTLG3KLMqzjPyVgFtrvXqQ9qgd7VUPThfFR-BtuqvowqYUvWmfVJda932qm968sp4AIktYLP4BRaUXM7EHpqOyFiLScmq1T03uk8a_mlu5wvakpbqRiRdE/s200/300KILLER+CAREER+2013newcover.jpg" width="125" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">2. An occupation involving education - In <a href="http://amzn.com/B002PDOPPG">Killer Career</a>, my heroine is a successful attorney who wants out. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3. Dream job - Another example from <a href="http://amzn.com/B002PDOPPG">Killer Career</a>. When my heroine decides to give up her law practice to follow her dream of being a writer, her decision could kill her. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuBWVqCg-fyAfJgiKyXOXkM2xBNNYeIcJTk40ZkPxJ10UKcL5-hBkuBZJbCuIEgQxE_avKxwdamQktmQmiVkUt3x0WA5e-E71dBSshuLV3EMaCCnZBEeYCBxtIa0ArOrqBtCD1k-AKJJU/s1600/300HerHandyman2-2500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuBWVqCg-fyAfJgiKyXOXkM2xBNNYeIcJTk40ZkPxJ10UKcL5-hBkuBZJbCuIEgQxE_avKxwdamQktmQmiVkUt3x0WA5e-E71dBSshuLV3EMaCCnZBEeYCBxtIa0ArOrqBtCD1k-AKJJU/s200/300HerHandyman2-2500.jpg" width="140" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">4. A job requiring practical know how - The hero in <a href="http://amzn.com/B0097EVXBK">Her Handyman</a>, is a Jack of All Trades, and generous with his time and talents. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now it's your turn. What job does your hero or heroine have? Or, maybe you'd like to mention a favorite one from someone else's book.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ2TdbFe0o9cTw_DfiN-ncfh6NL6rqUMY56TUYSyJNBrYBTX5yGbkgnWIXlAMn5-4j5vvZOsqaIz9ab25SYWhAwN0J66n-JGheaxvwvLyfWiCnhbXrxJFa09xoVrpmNItpjDfra4P2ppI/s1600/2014-04-26+19.21.00-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ2TdbFe0o9cTw_DfiN-ncfh6NL6rqUMY56TUYSyJNBrYBTX5yGbkgnWIXlAMn5-4j5vvZOsqaIz9ab25SYWhAwN0J66n-JGheaxvwvLyfWiCnhbXrxJFa09xoVrpmNItpjDfra4P2ppI/s200/2014-04-26+19.21.00-2.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Find all of Morgan Mandel's books at</span><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel">http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel</a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Facebook:</span> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/morgan.mandel">http://www.facebook.com/morgan.mandel</a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Twitter: @MorganMandel</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
Morgan Mandelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118929301591850918noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-10187064034455630402015-11-12T14:24:00.000-06:002015-11-12T14:24:22.034-06:00Getting A Thank You by Snail Mail! by DL LarsonA couple of weeks ago I did a writers workshop for a group of 5th & 6th graders. It was a great time and I had hoped the students enjoyed the session. Whether they learned anything or not, I had no idea ... until I received a large packet in the mail the other day.<br />
<br />
The students sent me not just a thank you note, they wrote individual letters. In past workshops, I've received pictures ~ either colored or ones the teacher has taken. I always enjoy receiving those. Other times I have received a thank you card where each student has signed their name, etc. This group of kids went beyond all that.<br />
<br />
I'm sharing with you because kids are writers too and we as adults sometimes forget that. We know they have to write for homework assignments, etc. and an occasional thank you note, but to sit and hand write a letter was new for me to receive. With all the social media these days, I didn't think kids did that sort of thing anymore.<br />
<br />
I had told the kids they could call me, DL, or Mrs. Deb.<br />
<br />
Hope you enjoy ...<br />
<br />
'Dear Miss Deb,<br />
Thank you for being in our classroom yesterday! I had sooo much fun. I liked to learn about genres and characters. That was my favorite part. I learned so many things like different genres, developing characters, action verbs, different parts of a story. Oh, I could go on forever of how much I learned and had fun! I liked how much the class and I learned. <br />
Thank you, Emily'<br />
<br />
'Dear D.L.,<br />
Thank you so much for coming to our school to each us about being an author! It was really fun. It was so cool how you took "he" and changed him into "Nate Yorkston" and "school" to "Frankenstein Academy." It was a very fun experience that I will never forget. I hope you had a great Halloween!<br />
Thanks, Mackenzie'<br />
<br />
'Dear D.L.,<br />
Thank you for teaching us how to be a author. I learned how to plan a story first and developing characters and parts of a story. Happy Halloween!!! Thank you!!<br />
boo Thanks, Alyssa'<br />
<br />
Dear Miss Deb,<br />
Thank you for coming yesterday and teaching us about being an Author! It was so nice of you for coming and showing us types of genres, developing characters, action verbs, different parts of a story and CONFLICT and struggles. I think it's really cool that your an author. I myself (heart) reading!<br />
Sincerely, Isabell'<br />
<br />
'Dear Miss Deb,<br />
I have learned a lot about your presentation Thursday. I learned about developing characters, action verbs, different parts of a story and an author needs imagination. Thank you for teaching us and me. Also thank you for taking time out of your time and the treats.<br />
Sincerely, Ariana'<br />
<br />
'Dear Mrs. Larson,<br />
Thank you for inspiring us to read more, but most of all to be an author. You really touched my heart and taught me about so many different genres. Also thanks for teaching us how to write a story and what it takes to do it. I also learned about how to organize and plan a story and how to make them bigger. You were fun and I also wanted to thank you for the treats and the pencil. Hopefully you could come back soon, you were so much fun!!!<br />
Thanks you, Alex'<br />
<br />
'Dear Mrs. Larson, (the only one written in cursive!)<br />
Thank you for coming in to our class to teach us. I learned about creating interesting characters, action verbs, and different parts of a story. My class also learned about planning the story first. Happy Halloween!<br />
Thank you, Wes'<br />
<br />
'Dear Miss Deb,<br />
I really appreciate you for coming to our school. You were so nice to us. I learned about all of the different genres, also you showed us how to make a story. I didn't know all these things but you teached us all more about a developing story, genres, characters and setting. Happy Halloween, from Aaron'<br />
<br />
<br />
Feedback is always a good thing. I won't bore you with the other letters; they are very similar and written with an eagerness I sometimes forget young people have. I believe the two big words for the day were: genre and CONFLICT. So I feel I've planted a few seeds for these young writers.<br />
<br />
I'm always revved up after I've done a kids workshop. The prep work and the implementation inspires me. So by helping others, I end up helping myself. I call that a win-win.<br />
<br />
Hope their enthusiasm inspires you to write as well!<br />
<br />
'Til next time ~<br />
<br />
DL Larson<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a><br />
<br />
<br />Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-91983108900737693002015-11-11T17:11:00.003-06:002015-11-11T17:11:32.334-06:00Stormy WeatherStormy weather sometimes comes in handy writers. Here are some ways:<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1. Personal stormy weather - Sharing our own rough patches with others can help others make it through similar ordeals, and let them know they are not alone. Also, sometimes sharing can make us feel better.</div>
<div>
2. Stormy weather writing - Sometimes writing helps to take our minds off our troubles.</div>
<div>
3. Meteorological stormy weather - What better way to describe thunder storms, lightning, strong winds, and other stormy weather than to get firsthand experience? It's not the most comfortable way, but we might as well put what we've observed to use in our books.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Can you think of other ways stormy weather comes in handy?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbUiTrcb9wMfg3uOHTnd3HeGDq-JK1G-eD3D61qX9cfHJFMolKKPnj4BXwnLgjOtPo74LmSXfLQgXOAnevtA9qp3Wlq-wv4urkXqNureckJk-nSFixe0JAqFpNvellhmQwNgBW17fdqXg/s1600/2014-04-25+17.41.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbUiTrcb9wMfg3uOHTnd3HeGDq-JK1G-eD3D61qX9cfHJFMolKKPnj4BXwnLgjOtPo74LmSXfLQgXOAnevtA9qp3Wlq-wv4urkXqNureckJk-nSFixe0JAqFpNvellhmQwNgBW17fdqXg/s200/2014-04-25+17.41.40.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Find all of Morgan Mandel's books at</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel">http://www.amazon.com/author/morganmandel</a></div>
<div>
Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/morgan.mandel">http://www.facebook.com/morgan.mandel</a></div>
<div>
Twitter: @MorganMandel</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Morgan Mandelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118929301591850918noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-53380225546268384962015-11-05T10:17:00.000-06:002015-11-05T10:17:15.541-06:00Judging Writing Contests! by DL LarsonWriting contests are beneficial for aspiring writers and seasoned writers. Hearing feedback from another writer is a great way to improve one's writing. If one is willing to listen and learn.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In a writing group I belong to, we had a discussion on the over use of 'now' and 'then'. I believe it started from an article in a writing magazine. Of course I can't find the article - why is that? I can find a dozen magazines, but the one I want is missing . . . Anyway, then and now are considered, usually, as construction words. Once the story is written, most of the 'then' and 'now' should come away without harm to the sentence structure. I noticed many 'then' and 'now' in the entries I read. I shared my newly remembered tidbit to the entrants.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Recently I received a critique on a section of my WIP. A few of my writing group members highlighted the 'then' and 'now' dotted across my work. It was one of those LOL moments. I will take their good advice and kick them off the page.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A few other common mistakes I found judging, I'd like to share:</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
1. Use past tense to keep the action moving. Ex: 'was running' = ran. </div>
<div>
Passive verbs can not sustain suspense, intrigue or excitement. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2. POV hopping. </div>
<div>
Basic rule: keep one point of view to each scene.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
3. Setting.</div>
<div>
Tell/show your reader where your character is at all times.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
4. Plot</div>
<div>
Decide the purpose of the story. You don't have to know all the details from the unset, but if you don't have a clear understanding how your character needs to reach his/her goal, it shows on the page. Ask your character the tough questions: </div>
<div>
- what does it take to succeed?</div>
<div>
- what are the stumbling block?</div>
<div>
- what is their deepest fear?</div>
<div>
- how will they grow in order to reach their goal?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
5. Character Development</div>
<div>
Make your character(s) engaging. Bad guy or good guy - doesn't matter. Just make him/her real!</div>
<div>
Repeat this procedure with every character in your story.</div>
<div>
Character driven stories will propel your book in a direction you might not have intended. That's an </div>
<div>
exciting thing. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I thoroughly enjoyed judging the entries of the Four Season Contest, sponsored by Windy City RWA. Thank you all for allowing me to read your work. I hope the experience was rewarding for you.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
'Til next time ~</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
DL Larson<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-15694767588991554402015-10-29T17:24:00.001-05:002015-10-29T17:29:09.868-05:00All In A Day! by DL LarsonThursday is my day off. Thursday is my day to blog. Thursday is my day to run errands. And Thursday is my day to take my grandson to his horse riding lessons. I usually end each Thursday with one of two things: a church meeting or going to the local tavern for their Thursday night chicken special.<br />
<br />
Today, I added one more thing. I had a writers workshop for a group of 5th and 6th graders at their school. The 9:00 a.m. schedule had me fearing I'd over sleep. But I made it in plenty of time. I never know what I'm walking into with a classroom setting. Some kids are genuinely excited to see me, others think it will be boring and their faces convey that to me. I hope I didn't disappoint anyone, especially the doubting ones.<br />
<br />
I learned something new today. The 5th and 6th grade kids were not familiar with Harry Potter. I usually use this story to break down plot, characters, setting, etc. When we started this section of the workshop, blank looks filled the students' faces. They didn't know Harry's closest friends. They didn't know the bad guys. I was surprised. As a children's librarian I shouldn't have been so shocked. Harry has not left the shelves for a while now.<br />
<br />
I needed a new connection with the kids. The class teacher, Lori Safranek, explained they were in the middle of reading the book, <i>Wonder</i>, by R.J. Palacio. Thankfully I have read <i>Wonder. </i><br />
<br />
We proceeded with <i>Wonder</i>, the story of Augie, a fifth grader who has physical deformities. He goes to school for the first time in his life. Every day he encounters many things, rudeness being one of the nicer things that happens to him. But Augie won't give up. He wants a normal life like a normal ten year old boy.<br />
<br />
This book turned out to be a great example for breaking down plot, learning what it takes to make a character real, etc. The kids got involved and that's what counted.<br />
<br />
After my workshop, it was time for Colton's horse lessons. Then back home to playing with Thomas the Train and watching Planes. After my grandson's visit, I was ready for a nap. It's cold and dreary out, and did I mention I have a bum foot these days? I should prop it up. I also have judging to do for the Four Season Writers Contest. Judging is due next week and I'm far from done. My church meeting begins in seventy minutes.<br />
<br />
I've realized Thursday is my busiest day of the week. I always think I will catch up on my writing, get the laundry done and maybe some cleaning. Okay, no cleaning ... but the day flies by in blur. My list of <i>Things To Do</i> never enters my mind.<br />
<br />
I've decided my priorities need re-arranging for Thursdays. From this day forward, I declare Thursday, my day to do what I want! I intend to scratch my expectations of doing laundry on Thursdays. Cleaning has already been booted off the list, and my writing may suffer neglect on Thursdays, but that's okay too. I will try my best to blog each Thursday, but if you do not see my post, know that I am out living my life, doing things I need and want to do. Like horse back riding lessons, playing with Thomas the Train and watching Planes.<br />
<br />
Til next time ~<br />
<br />
DL Larson<br />
<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a>Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327614151421187161.post-63431153257077015542015-10-15T16:02:00.000-05:002015-10-15T16:02:05.225-05:00Staying In Touch With Readers! by DL Larson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxqm2mZ9wq7k77oLcOtG20TDCI9FyTi9qPEur4yV-5HB-VnLSUzdnjVk8nhbYfshJKLnVGACqRiTDFCSMtK8mb48_oEV1hUlAwLxIAONOOolFkSfZnRoXP92f8PRhcgK3MLKjzzdimZGIt/s1600/Louisa+and+DL+Oct+2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxqm2mZ9wq7k77oLcOtG20TDCI9FyTi9qPEur4yV-5HB-VnLSUzdnjVk8nhbYfshJKLnVGACqRiTDFCSMtK8mb48_oEV1hUlAwLxIAONOOolFkSfZnRoXP92f8PRhcgK3MLKjzzdimZGIt/s320/Louisa+and+DL+Oct+2015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Although I don't have a new book out, I was invited to the Oswego Literary Festival at the Oswego Library on October 3rd. I debated whether I should go or not. I've nothing new or exciting to add to my collection of books, but I went anyway ... to keep my name and face in view of the public.<br />
<br />
Pictured with me is Luisa Buehler, a cozy mystery writer. I met Luisa many years ago at a Windy City RWA meeting. Luisa has sold a <i>lot</i> of books over the years. She is well known in the Chicago area and beyond! We had a great time chatting and I'm always glad to sit by someone so knowledgeable about the writing field. Check out Luisa's home page and her <i>Grace Marsden Mystery Series</i> at: <a href="http://luisabuehler.com/">http://luisabuehler.com/</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT4xro7uPb42fostfToXzq4bYdIoGGUvkKP3fTk_9ZJ1HwIOn_J0RoT5raLtvvvULpvTcZc0U0kJak1f_rEg_pfr_j8dIHf6-_GWAsW-KZzH2zMkjEyDcY3crQlmKSopIQGL1oOjikPtWy/s1600/Nicole+and+Denise+Oct+2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT4xro7uPb42fostfToXzq4bYdIoGGUvkKP3fTk_9ZJ1HwIOn_J0RoT5raLtvvvULpvTcZc0U0kJak1f_rEg_pfr_j8dIHf6-_GWAsW-KZzH2zMkjEyDcY3crQlmKSopIQGL1oOjikPtWy/s320/Nicole+and+Denise+Oct+2015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These two ladies were at the Oswego Lit Fest as well. On the left, is Nicole Lieren, with her debut novel, <i>More Than One Night.</i>Visit Nicole at<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog_posts/9148502-spotlight-and-guest-post-nicole-lieren-author-of-more-than-one-night"> https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog_posts/9148502-spotlight-and-guest-post-nicole-lieren-author-of-more-than-one-nighthttps://www.goodreads.com/author_blog_posts/9148502-spotlight-and-guest-post-nicole-lieren-author-of-more-than-one-night </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On the right, is NY Best Selling Author Denise Swanson. Visit Denise at: <a href="http://www.deniseswanson.com/">http://www.deniseswanson.com/ </a>These gals are active members of the Windy City RWA as well. And it was great to see their smiling faces throughout the day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As a librarian, I know attending Literary Festivals is great publicity for an author, but not the best in making sales. And that's okay. A festival gives readers an idea of the many talented authors in their area. Plus readers have the chance to discover new writers they may not have noticed before. They have the opportunity to chat with authors and better understand the hard work that goes into being a writer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm glad I took the time to attend the festival. A BIG thank you to the Oswego Public Library and to the Village of Oswego Cultural Arts Commission for hosting the event.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Til next time ~</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
DL Larson</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.dllarson.com/">www.DLLARSON.com</a></div>
Deb Larsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14115066586448611470noreply@blogger.com6