SUBPLOTS: The Why, What, and How – Part II

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Wishing you a sunny Friday from Gail Gaymer Martin. Last month I talked about Subplots: The Why, What and How.  Part I on subplots covered the purpose for using a subplot and information about both internal and external types of subplots. Today the topic extends to Part II on Subplot Ideas.   Simply in review, the purpose of a subplot is: 1. Make the story more real. 2. Add greater conflict and tension. 3. Add interest by giving variety to the story —keeping this unpredictable. 4. Add texture by adding story layers — see the characters interacting with new characters and in…

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Tips from the Pros: Janet Perez Eckles

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Greetings from Marti Pieper in spring-is-coming Mount Dora, Florida! In my yard, that means the amaryllis are blooming, with the Easter lilies not far behind. And I imagine it’s close to the same in the yard of the subject of this interview, since she’s practically my neighbor here in central Florida. Janet Perez Eckles and I have known each other for a few years now, and I assure you that she is as lovely in person as she appears in this interview. I take great delight in sharing Janet and her special brand of sweet and spicy wisdom with you.    …

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BOOK MARKETING: ONE CAFE’S APPROACH

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A Note from Carol We know that coupling a book signing with an event is an effect approach to promotion. Recently, I had the pleasure of doing a book signing at the 6 North Cafe in Ballwin, MO. You may wonder how that would be classified as an event. This breakfast and brunch restaurant has a rich tradition of serving customers great food, amazing coffee, and the opportunity to meet local authors. Kudos to Maria and the folks at 6 North Cafe.

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NEW RELEASE: FEBRUARY 2015 – 12 SMART CHOICES FOR FINDING THE RIGHT GUY by GEORGIA SHAFFER

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Are you frustrated with dating? Wondering how to find the right one? Christian psychologist and life coach Georgia Shaffer reveals how to avoid unhealthy people, build vibrant relationships, and find romance! These 12 smart choices will help you… – pinpoint the qualities you want in a mate – determine if someone has integrity and is trustworthy – deepen your capacity to connect romantically – minimize emotional reactions that can block intimacy Gary Chapman, Ph.D., author of The Five Love Languages wrote, “Save yourself time and heartache by applying the principles shared by Georgia Shaffer.

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Who Me? A Perfectionist?

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Hello from Kathy Collard Miller in the desert of Southern California If I were to ask you whether you’re a perfectionist, you’d most likely say “no.” The explanation for saying that? “Well, I don’t get anything perfect! After all, perfectionists reach perfection.” Would you be shocked if I told you that’s not accurate? Not only is it not accurate but I would almost predict that some perfectionist tendencies are blocking your efficiency and joy in your writing.  Because one definition of a perfectionist is: “A person who takes great pains and passes them on to others.” Want to know if you have…

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Proofreading Pointers #41

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Hi! I’m Kathy Ide. In addition to being a published author, I’m a full-time professional freelance editor. For CAN, I’m blogging about tips for writers based on the most common mistakes I see in the manuscripts I edit. Cutting the Fat, Part Two Following on the heels of last month’s column, here are more ways you can tighten your manuscript.

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Marketing Your EBook-Part Two-Reviews

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From the Desk of Cheri Cowell In my last post I offered several marketing ideas that are different or might have a different emphasis for e-books. One of those differences is where one finds opportunities for reviews. This post offers a list with hyperlinks to some of the sites that provide reviews for e-book authors. Be sure to read the guidelines as not all sites review all genres and each has a different submission process. May you find in this list a few good reviews.

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NEW RELEASE: JANUARY 2015 – GABRIEL’S ATONEMENT by Vickie McDonough

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  Gabriel’s Atonement Gabe Coulter has a successful night gambling, but a drunken cowboy who wants his money back confronts him in a dark alley. Gabe refuses to return the man’s money, and a gunfight ensues. The dying man tells Gabe the money was for his wife and son. Though the shooting was self-defense, Gabe wrestles with guilt. The only way he knows to get rid of it is to return the money he fairly won to the man’s wife. Lara Talbot sees Gabe as a derelict like her husband and wants nothing to do with him. But as she…

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