Tag Archives: book launch

Written Across the Genres

I was privileged to read an excerpt from my novel, My Side of the Wall, at Towne Center Books in Pleasanton, California. It appeared in the anthology, Written Across the Genres, edited by Julaina Kleist- Corwin and is available on Amazon.com.

Julaina wanted to give new writers an opportunity to have their work published. She and Linda Todd worked tirelessly to make it a valuable piece of art. The cover, designed by Julaina, is exquisite – something of which to be proud.

It is this type of opportunity that keeps me working on my novel. My characters are complex, and the drama of their lives leads them to different paths. The theme and plot of the book have developed to the point of near conclusion. I plan to be done with my third rewrite by the end of May. I will then submit copies to several beta readers to read and give comments. Even though my novel critique group gives me important feedback, I need fresh eyes and points of view to enhance the edits already given.

To borrow the title of Hillary Clinton’s book, it takes a village to write a book. Without the input of other writers I’m afraid my novel would not be as well developed as it is. I take courage from the writers who publish their works. We’re a supportive community who understand the complexities of writing, and also, the hard work it entails.

It’s also helpful that family and friends urge me to continue writing. My husband respects the quiet I need to write. All I have to say is, “I’m writing,” and he proceeds to works at his computer or attends meetings of the committees he serves. I appreciate the help of all who have supported me and know that their efforts have helped me bring my work much closer to a quality finished product.

Book Launch

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAOn December 10, 2013, I was thrilled to be part of a book launch at Towne Center Books in Pleasanton, CA. Four authors, including me, joined in reading excerpts from our books. Julaina Kleist-Corwin and I read from our true Christmas romance stories, which appear in an anthology, A Kiss Under the Mistletoe by Jennifer Basye Sander. This book was published by Harlequin and released on October 29, 2013, in time for the holiday season. It is available on www.amazon.com in paperback or Kindle formats. It is also on Nook. Jordan Bernal’s novel, The Keepers of Eire, is set in Ireland. It’s an adult fantasy book that takes you into the world of dragons and magic. You can order it on Kindle or from Jordan’s website: www.jordanbernal.com. Elaine Schmitz’s cookbook, Recipes and Recollections of My Greek American Family contains entertaining tales and delectable recipes, which range from easy to gourmet. To order: www.elaineschmitz-writer.com.

Our warm, welcoming audience had the chance to purchase books and we were privileged to autograph them. We basked in the glow of the evening as our audience laughed and applauded. We enjoyed our fifteen minutes of fame and look forward to more chances to promote our work in our progression of being published.

Any success in publishing I receive also goes to my critique group and my writing teacher, Julaina Kleist-Corwin, who encouraged me to enter this contest. My learning curve has been steep, and the practice of my craft is important. Previous credits were in local anthologies, which was a good start. Now, I desire to continue writing and entering other contests for short essays, stories and poems. This should help me build a better following, which will aid in sales of my novel when that day comes.

I can’t emphasize enough the importance of the support of my fellow writers who cheer me to go forward and also critique my writing, as well as the family and friends who encourage me to write. I appreciate everyone who has purchased this book. Your support has been a source of encouragement to me.