Emma Michaels

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T11:14:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!!!! To start off the new year right I decided to post a poem I read today in appreciation of all of you!!! New Year’s ReflectionsLooking back on the months gone by,
As a new year starts and an old one ends,
We contemplate what brought us joy,
And we think of our loved ones and our friends.Recalling all the happy times,
Remembering how they enriched our lives,
We reflect upon who really counts,
As the fresh and bright new year arrives.And when I ponder those who do,
I immediately think of you.Thanks for being one of the reasonsI'll have a Happy New Year!By Joanna Fuchs
I hope you all are having a wonderful day!!!
Sincerely,Emma Michaels

Orange County childrens Book Festival photos

2011-10-07T20:41:00.000-07:00

Finally got the Orange County Children's Book Festival pictures uploaded! Still working on the video of the Paranormal Tendencies Panel but hoping to have it done soon too! YEAY! Here you go:

Back in my neck of the woods

2011-10-04T19:18:00.000-07:00

Finally back in Washington State! Will be posting pictures from California, Orange County Children's Book Festival and a YouTube video of the Paranormal Tendencies Panel!

Here are a few teasers to hold you over of a beautiful sunset I got to see on the beaches of San Diego!

Updates and Orange County

2011-09-26T14:47:00.000-07:00

I am stopping all memes for a bit so that I concentrate on writing actual content on this blog like reviews, p2ps, etc. I have let my meme-ing get out of control and turn this blog into more of a follower magnet than a personal blog so that stops here. Reviews when I read, p2ps, events and might even try some random thought posts : p

I am heading to California in a few days for Orange County Children’s Book Festival. Had a blast last year and this year I am even going to be moderating a Paranormal Tendencies panel featuring Inara Scott, Cindy Pon, Jeff Mariotte and Gretchen McNeil! Going to be an amazing group! Looking forward to it and getting to speak publicly again. Also looking forward to the book bloggers who are going! A few of you know who you are and I have missed you. <3 As promised I am bringing a camera this year and will post pictures! Here are the few I have from last year after scouring the net when I got back.

Already working on book three of the ‘Sense of Truth’ series and also working on a new series! I will be revealing more soon as I get everything squared away.

Follow Friday

2011-09-23T04:15:00.000-07:00

To join the fun and make now book blogger friends, just follow these simple rules:

1. Follow the Follow My Book Blog Friday Host { http://www.Parajunkee.com + http://www.crazy-for-books.com/ } and any one else you want to follow on the list
2. Put your Blog name & URL in the Linky thing.
3. Grab the button up there and place it in a post, this post is for people to find a place to say hi in your comments
4. Follow Follow Follow as many as you can
5. If someone comments and says they are following you, be a dear and follow back. Spread the Love...and the followers
6. If you want to show the link list, just follow the link below the entries and copy and paste it within your post!
7. If your new to the follow friday hop, comment and let me know, so I can stop by and check out your blog!

Happy Follow Friday!

Follow it up with your twitter address if you want to get that one out!
*********

Stop by the host sites for the lists!!!

Follow Friday

2011-09-16T04:14:00.000-07:00

Review: Circle of Fire by Michelle Zink

2011-09-13T11:23:00.000-07:00

Novel: Circle of Fire
Author: Michelle Zink
Pages: 359
Genre:Young Adult/ Supernatural

With time dwindling but her will to end the Prophecy stronger than ever, Lia sets out on a journey to find the remaining keys, locate the missing pages of the Prophecy, and convince her sister Alice to help--or risk her life trying. Lia has her beloved Dimitri by her side, but Alice has James, the man who once loved her sister--and maybe still does. James doesn't know the truth about either sister, or the prophecy that divides them. And Alice intends to keep it that way.

There are some secrets sisters aren't meant to share. Because when they do, it destroys them. This stunning conclusion to Michelle Zink's 'Prophecy of the Sisters trilogy' will make saying good-bye bittersweet for readers.

5 Stars.
Hands down.
In fact I need a new rating system so that I can make this 6 stars.

Wow. Let me start off by saying that I was rendered speechless for a good ten to fifteen minutes after finishing this. Considering this is me, author, writers, public speaker, person who loves to be social and can almost always find the words she needs to say or type... that says something. I am still in shock. Luckily, now I am able to voice more about it... or well, type. If I was trying to talk I might be stuttering right now.

Lets start by saying that I really admire Michelle Zink. Her writing style is so beautiful and fluid that you feel like you aren't reading a novel, you are being lead through one. I loved Prophecy of the Sisters and Guardian of the Gate! Knowing this was a trilogy I had mixed emotions about reading Circle of Fire. I never like when a series ends. It can bring a series together and make it something even more beautifully profound or dig a grave for it and mean I am donating my copy to the library. This novel was beautifully profound and made this series unforgettable for me.

It wove a tragic yet beautiful tale into something so breath taking you have to pause every once in a while and just let yourself enjoy the moment. Savoring the way that the novel takes you over and lets you see the journey of these two sisters who have had their lives torn in two by their own destinies. I read because I love to read and find it entertaining, this novel was more than that. You don't just enjoy the story, you feel like you are a part of it and have to keep reading because Lia's fate is mixed with your own.

Overall, unforgettable and a series I have a feeling I will re-read often in the future.
I can hardly wait to see what Michelle Zink comes up with next. After this series I have faith that whatever she publishes next will be a wonderful read. I can hardly wait to enjoy A Temptation of Angels March 20, 2012!

Would I suggest you read it:

Yes. I would 100% suggest this to anyone. This series has what every great story needs and more. It is a sweet escape, beautifully written and it can make you feel such an array of emotions. Michelle Zink is an author I am always going to look for on the shelves in the future thanks to this series.

Teaser Tuesday: Captured

2011-09-13T04:12:00.000-07:00

“Willow marveled at her courage. Gemma hadn’t cringed or cried or any of the things that Willow probably would’ve done. She just walked past that woman like nothing had happened.”

Page 128 of The Divided Realms (Book one): Captured by Maggie L. Wood

Follow Friday

2011-09-09T04:13:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: Clarity

2011-09-06T04:12:00.000-07:00

“I screamed.

I slapped Justin, who was bewildered by my sudden outburst. Then I pushed him backwards again and again, screaming, “How could you?”

I wanted to tear him apart, and he would have let me without even so much as a hand to defend himself.”

Page 44 of Clarity by Kim Harrington

Follow Friday

2011-09-02T04:13:00.000-07:00

Updates from around the web

2011-09-01T08:52:00.000-07:00

I realized I never post updates anymore. So here are a round of updates for everyone!

1. I was chosen as author of the month on http://uk-and-beyond-book-tours.com/! WOOHOO! The interview is up!

2. THE WRITERS VOICE is now live! http://ourbooksourvoice.blogspot.com
Where I will be blogging with wonderful authors including: Kristie Cook, Jamie Magee, Kim Richardson, Keary Taylor, Victoria Simcox, Jessica Sorensen, Brenda Pandos, Samantha Young, Jayde Scott, Megg Jensen and Danyelle Leafty!
Thank you to everyone who has been following and e-mailing!
If you tell us who your favorite authors are in our very first posts here, I will try to get an interview with them! They don't have to be on the list, any author someone requests an interview from in the comments, I will try to reach out to! Don't be afraid to make your list long!

3. I have a tour coming up for Anasazi AND a tour coming up for The Writers Voice! Going to be tons of fun and surprises!

4. I set up Facebook and Goodreads invites for The Writers Voice! The Party is getting started! *Dances* That is right, 12 authors, one RSS or follow : D *Keeps dancing*

*Drum roll please*
And last but not least, I will be setting up more reviews to post soon! I know I have been falling behind but I am back in full force. Starting The Writers Voice has really inspired me and is continuing to everyday. So just wait! I am back and going to be full of surprises!

Love you all and thank you for being you!
You inspire me, keep me going and make me want to be a better person each and every day.
You may not know it, but I have no idea where I would be without you.

Sincerely and with love,
Emma Michaels

P.S. - I am thinking of saving the links to some of my favorite posts I read during the week and sharing them once a week or once every two weeks. What do you think? I have been reading so many brilliant posts, I would love to share them. : D

Super Secret Project

2011-08-31T15:05:00.000-07:00

I am finally revealing the SUPER SECRET PROJECT!

Click this link to find out more!

http://ourbooksourvoice.blogspot.com/

Please follow and support!

Teaser Tuesday: The Scorpio Races

2011-08-30T04:12:00.000-07:00

“That night, instead of dreaming, I lie in my bed and stare at the small square of black sky that I can see out the window of my flat. Though I’m dry now, I feel cold to my bones, as if I’ve swallowed the sea and it lives inside of me.”

Page 119 of The Scorpio Races by Maggie Steifvater

Follow Friday

2011-08-26T04:12:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: Howls Moving Castle

2011-08-23T04:12:00.000-07:00

“Sophie’s sympathy shrank quite sharply. It occurred to her that is Howl could cover himself with green slime so easily, then he could just as easily turn his hair the proper color. “Then why don’t you feel the girl a love potion and get it over with?” she said.

“Oh, no,” said Howl. “That’s not playing the game. That would spoil the fun.”

Page 123 of Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones

Follow Friday

2011-08-19T04:11:00.000-07:00

Book Trailer Thursday: The Girl Who...

2011-08-17T20:54:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: Love on the Big Screen

2011-08-16T04:12:00.000-07:00

“I feel like a lame duck girlfriend. How should I act around him? And then today, you know, with all that happened, he seemed pretty decent. He always acts like he doesn’t care, but he cared today, when I was in danger, when I almost got hurt.”

Page 131 of Love on the Big Screen by William J. Torgerson

Follow Friday

2011-08-12T04:11:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: Clockwork Angel

2011-08-09T04:12:00.000-07:00

“"The law protects us. We surrender to you. The Law-“

“You have broken the law,” snarled Benedict. “Therefore its protection no longer extends to you. The sentence is death."”

Page 253 of Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

Follow Friday

2011-08-05T04:10:00.000-07:00

http://crazy-for-books.com/2011/08/book-blogger-hop-85-88.html

This week on Crazy for Books you can get a free eARC of my novel ANASAZI!!!!! <3

To join the fun and make now book blogger friends, just follow these simple rules:

1. Follow the Follow My Book Blog Friday Host { http://www.Parajunkee.com + http://www.crazy-for-books.com/ } and any one else you want to follow on the list
2. Put your Blog name & URL in the Linky thing.
3. Grab the button up there and place it in a post, this post is for people to find a place to say hi in your comments
4. Follow Follow Follow as many as you can
5. If someone comments and says they are following you, be a dear and follow back. Spread the Love...and the followers
6. If you want to show the link list, just follow the link below the entries and copy and paste it within your post!
7. If your new to the follow friday hop, comment and let me know, so I can stop by and check out your blog!

Happy Follow Friday!

Follow it up with your twitter address if you want to get that one out!
*********

Stop by the host sites for the lists!!!

ANASAZI RELEASE ZOMG!

2011-08-04T09:37:00.000-07:00

OMG THE RELEASE IS COMING in just a FEW HOURS!!!!

Yes, the image is reversed, I apologize. : D

I am not scary happy or anything.... Of course not...

*Goes to squeal with glee at her desk after dancing around the room*

ONLY A FEW HOURS LEFT AND HUGE SURPRISES TOMORROW!!!!

Anasazi

One year ago, something happened to David. Following the only clue he had he headed out into the desert. Now he has asked me to come see him. But when I arrived, he was gone. The people in town claim they have never heard of him and everyone wants me to leave.

But I know he was here and he is in trouble.

He can't survive out there for long.

Can he?

David. I will find you.

Will be only $2.99 e-Book and $10.99 paperback!

Teaser Tuesday: Daughter of Smoke and Bone

2011-08-02T07:15:00.000-07:00

“She hadn’t expected to be sorry, and at first she wasn’t. The act itself was neither disappointing nor magical; it was what it was: a new closeness. A shared secret.

Or so she thought.”

Page 21 of Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor

Follow Friday

2011-07-29T04:09:00.000-07:00

Book Trailer Thursday: Pinelight by Jillian Peery

2011-07-28T13:52:00.000-07:00

Here comes Book Trailer Thursday!

Every Thursday we (all who wish to join and the wonderful host http://quillcafe.blogspot.com/) welcome everyone to join us in celebrating the awesomeness that is book trailers.

To participate, on a Thursday you post an entry in your blog with an embedded book trailer of your choice (note: the trailer can be fan made but please no movie trailers of book adaptations) with your thoughts and comments underneath. It can be a book you have read, want to read or have never even come across before.

My book trailer for this week is...

Pinelight

Okay, you might be thinking the same thing I did when I first heard the title Pinelight. Pinelight.. light... twi... hmmm...
BUT STOP THERE!

I have started reading (thanks to this beautiful trailer) and DON'T LET YOURSELF NIX IT FOR BEING SCARED it might be another twilight. I can tell you, even though I am not all the way through yet *stares at e-reader but must finish post first* it is not a copy cat. So far I actually think it is better and I am saying that as someone who really enjoyed twilight and even goes to see the movies. The voice is both emotional and lyrical. Oh wait... I am supposed to be talking about the trailer. opps. See! That is how much I am enjoying it... I am actually gushing on a trailer post instead of a review!

Trailer time now: I love the voice and the song in the background. I also like that it wasn't from the leads perspective because when you are reading you are taking a journey with her which normally doesn't mean listening to her talking but hearing other talk through her ears/eyes. Normally I would actually have the opposite reaction but the characters voice is so emotional and relate-able and a certain character I will not name in the beginning is sooo addictive you just want him to come back over and over again even though you know you shouldn't. That is what I loved about Rahl in The Sword of Truth by Terry Goodkind and somehow she not only captured that same feeling but also made it something different and even more addictive. AHHH This is turning out to basically also be a review!I better tie it up before I start overflowing with book love.

Overall, LOVE the trailer and it made me buy the book that it turns out I am falling in love with.Yeayness!

Only $0.99 which in my opinion is a total steal for this book and a HUGE plus!

Teaser Tuesday: White Cat

2011-07-26T04:12:00.000-07:00

“This is the moment of truth, and when I look into the face of the mark at the counter, I can tell I’ve got him. He’s probably not a bad guy, but that five hundred dollars if quiet a lure. Plus the collar.”

Page 151 of White Cat by Holly Black

#Anasazi twitter release party on August 5th!

2011-07-25T10:50:00.000-07:00

To start out the new week I have a special invitation for my wonderful followers and twitter party lovers! Anyone is welcome so feel free to invite a friend! I already have! @Cinnamon_Quill my co-host is also a fellow blogger at: http://quillcafe.blogspot.com/ and a close friend of mine, not to mention tons of fun. Last year we had such a great time that we just couldn't pass up the opportunity to have another party! (For those of you who were there last year, hopefully I don't get put in twitter jail again. Even if the bailout stories were hysterical!)

Hope to see you there on August 5th!
host pages:
@EmmaMichaels
@Cinnamon_Quill

Please feel free to help us spread the word!

P.S. If you don't know how to attend a twitter party I have a tutorial on Tweetgrid here from last year.

(Project to Published/Advice) Supporting other authors

2011-07-24T04:00:00.000-07:00

Support Other Authors, Even if Just by a Library Visit

Dedicated to all of the authors I have seen these last few weeks, signing in stores or trying to get into them and finding that sometimes the next step after publication can be even harder to take than the ladder to get there.

We’ve all been in each other’s shoes (and if you haven’t go ahead and imagine) - there is nothing more nerve-wracking then sitting in a small chair, with a stack of your books in front of you, hoping that one of the many people who are passing by will at least stop and look at your book. I've done it quite a few times and I'm known for selling out my copies when I do. One thing I have going for me is that I am an extrovert in many ways (I LOVE to talk to people and while my comfort zone used to not include standing behind a table full of my own work, now it does). But many other authors are introverts, making it especially difficult.

In many ways, sitting there trying to sell your book(s) is/are like trying to apply for a new job or querying every person who walks by. It is, for all intents and purposes, a speed interview. You've got a few seconds at most to flash a smile, hold your book up and often without saying anything (because you rarely get the chance to if you are in a large store and people are going right past you to get into a mall or to get to their favorite section) to try to convey to passerbys that they should give your book a chance. My publisher once explained to me about online sales (typically offline too) and how the best sales pitch in the world will get at most a 3% to 5% success rate. That means IF an author is doing the BEST he or she can there might be 3 to 5 customers out of a hundred that will buy a book.

Fortunately, I'm a stubborn person. Which is not always a good thing but it is a wonderful thing when it comes to this career. Being downright stubborn can really make a difference and in many cases keep an author going.

When we began as writers we had to strive to climb a seemingly impossible ladder to become published authors. Now that we are published, we're finding there is still some ladder to climb (even more) - and that last part is filled with our readers, both old and new, before you go back to the next book and start all over again. When we find ourselves in these difficult situations, our primary support group is each other. We understand the feelings and situations that we each through as authors. It can be a lonely, but rewarding, experience.

I love to go to local signings and pick up a copy of a book then gush about it for a few moments in front of the stall so that other people can hear and come over if an author is having a hard time getting a group around them. They are curious and if they see that someone else thinks a book is worth their time, they are more likely to think it might be worth their own. Plus, I love all things signed, though I will admit my VERY favorite thing is stickers. If every author has stickers at his or her signings I would have to do a lot more traveling to book stores.

So if you are already an author, or a hopeful author, remember to support other authors, even if just by visiting a library to pick up their book and give it a chance. Or even just to visit and tell them hello and that you know they exist – it is encouraging to see faces in the crowd and especially heartening to see familiar ones. Plus, it will help us be the stubborn people that our readers love so much. Especially when we bring them a new book!

Keep trying and remember that all of your favorite authors started out somewhere. They didn’t write a book and the next week have hundreds of people at a signing; they had to climb these same ladders, find windows when doors closed and keep taking steps forward even when at times it started to feel like a walk through the Sahara without water. Everyone starts out somewhere and if this career really has a place in your heart, then you want to push and you can get there to as long as you keep moving forward and growing as an author. You may even find yourself growing to be a better and more driven person. I know I have.

This career has become a part of who I am. Now I am able to talk to people even if I don’t know them and LOVE doing it. I can keep pushing for a ‘yes’ even when I hear people say ‘no’. Now I actually have a wonderful group of fellow bloggers, writers and overall, wonderful people, who I care about and who help me keep pushing forward. It really can all be worth it as long as you are ready and willing to take the risk and step out of your comfort zone.

Are you ready?

Follow Friday

2011-07-22T04:09:00.000-07:00

Book Trailer Thursday: Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

2011-07-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: Blue is for Nightmares

2011-07-19T04:11:00.000-07:00

“”No ,” I shout “Don’t!”

“Why?”

“Just don’t” If the deathly thing is going to happen to her, it is safer if I open it. “I want to open it. I never get presents.”

Page 48 of Blue is for Nightmares by Laurie Faria Stolarz

Follow Friday

2011-07-15T04:08:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: Forever by Maggie Stiefvater

2011-07-12T04:11:00.000-07:00

“Empty houses don’t need windows

‘cause no one’s looking in

Why would a house need window’s, anyways

If no one’s looking out again”

Page 301 of Forever by Maggie Steifvater

(Project to Published) Understanding My Genre Through Reading

2011-07-10T02:25:00.000-07:00

How Many Books should I Read Before I understand the Genre I am Writing

This is a question that I keep hearing and I firmly believe that anyone who asks this needs to read more books. It’s something that is fluid and not standard. It changes like the seasons or the tide. It is very important to writing otherwise you will never understand what that genre is about. But it is especially important to writing because it will help you keep in touch with the industry, which in turn will help you set yourself apart.

My fiancé loves reading as much as I do. However, even he can't always understand the current YA genre. Since he is guy who grew up on YA literature, I have to remind him that books change every few years - as do the tastes of those who read them so some thing that would have been SERIOUSLY TABOO even just ten years ago are considered normal now. Writers can write about whatever they want, but for those who become authors, understanding our readers is a significant part of our careers. We lose touch with our fan base and our writing will begin to reflect this separation. (This does not mean following fads because the industry will make its own place for you if your work is good enough.)

But for me, it isn't only about keeping in touch with my fan base to continue writing what they love to read. I read to broaden my horizons and to learn about the worlds that my fellow authors have created. When authors stand alone, I feel that we are unable to create the quality of books that we would be able to if we did so together - and I'm not talking about being co-authors.

As a reader, I can understand the frustration of other readers when during a season of releases I maybe only find one or two books that I can dive into and become a part of those worlds. Recently however, I find myself finding more books than ever I can dive into and enjoy. Why? Because we've all become connected with each other and our readers in a way that has never happened before. We can blog and talk with one another. We can meet authors and fans alike and learn about each other.

Although the internet makes this possible, it is the books that we read that create these bridges for us to enjoy. Authors and readers alike can grow as they learn more about the genre they enjoy. So when I hear the question about how many books a person should read to understand the genre, I tell them they need to read more!

Enjoy and remember that if you ever need an escape, look at your bookshelf and you can choose the world you want to be a part of and the characters you want to get to know!

Sincerely,
Emma Michaels

Follow Friday

2011-07-08T04:07:00.000-07:00

The Anasazi Trailer!!!

2011-07-06T22:31:00.000-07:00

Here comes Book Trailer Thursday!

This week I am featuring the trailer for Anasazi, the second novel in my series and please stop by Quill Cafe to see the extended version!

Every Thursday we (all who wish to join and the wonderful host http://quillcafe.blogspot.com/) welcome everyone to join us in celebrating the awesomeness that is book trailers.

To participate, on a Thursday you post an entry in your blog with an embedded book trailer of your choice (note: the trailer can be fan made but please no movie trailers of book adaptations) with your thoughts and comments underneath. It can be a book you have read, want to read or have never even come across before.

My book trailer for this week is...

Teaser Tuesday: The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer

2011-07-05T04:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My Teaser:
This is from the first page, which is what got Keri over at http://quillcafe.blogspot.com and I hooked on this book! In her case it was pre-BEA and in my case it was during my trip to NY!

"But without my big mouth, no one would know that a seventeen-year-old who likes Death Cab for Cutie was responsible for the murders. No one would know that somewhere out there is a B student with a body count. And it's important that you know, so you're not next."

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin - page 1

Trailer reveal for Anasazi! (First look!)

2011-07-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July and here is the trailer for Anasazi!!!!!!

Hope you enjoy and have a day filled with wonderful celebration and crazy beautiful fireworks!

Project to Published: The Process is Different for Everyone

2011-07-03T04:57:00.000-07:00

The Publishing Process is Different for Everyone

It takes years to get published. Some people are lucky and move ahead right when they start trying but for others (most) it is a long and grueling process. In many ways, there are tips and tricks to the publishing process that can help each individual, but as we’re all different, what we need will be different too. Knowledge and understanding is very important to get ahead in the publishing world.

Recently, I attended BEA (Book Expo America) for the first time. I think when I first stepped inside, despite my having been to other expos and conventions, I must have stood still for at least fifteen seconds, blinking. I was reminded about all of the stories I hear from potential authors who dream of being published (and even my own story!) and how when we are at the post office sending a manuscript out or sending one digitally that it seems so small from our end. We wonder why it is taking so long for someone to recognize our hidden talents that are just waiting to be tapped.

Then I gaze around in amazement at the sheer number of people in the publishing industry and I have a single thought - Oh, THAT'S why.

During BEA, the topic of how to get published was brought up to me. Now I'm stubborn - just ask my fiancé. Part of me likes to think that I managed to get published out of sheer will and determination. I mean, after all, I was one of those people who sent endless queries out - one of the many hopefuls. I tried idea after idea, often failing, until I found that one idea that worked. Thomas Edison himself once said "I haven't failed, I've found 10,000 ways that don't work". He also said "Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration".

As writers, we have tons of inspiration. As authors, we need ninety-nine percent more perspiration than we did solely with our inspiration. I am the first to admit the publishing process is different for everyone. It is a difficult world to enter - and often, a very cold one. We receive rejections (often those heart-wrenching standard forms) and we question ourselves. The industry, our families, friends, co-workers, and many others all question us.

Are there tips and tricks to the publishing process we can try? Definitely. Will they work for each person? Probably not. But as I finish this latest post, I would like to leave all of you with one final Thomas Edison quote:

"Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time."

Never give up!!

Follow Friday

2011-07-01T04:05:00.000-07:00

Book Trailer Thursday: Firelight

2011-06-30T04:00:00.000-07:00

Anasazi back cover blurb reveal!

2011-06-27T20:51:00.000-07:00

Let me know what you think of the new blog design and *drum roll* please...

*dum dum dum dum dum dummmm*

*Still drumming*

*still at it*

*adding in some chimes (thirteen of them)*

*oh look a trumpet*

Okay, okay. I am sure you get it.

Here is the back cover blurb for Anasazi!!!!!

Which is now on GoodReads! YEAYNESS!

.~=+*'`'*+=~.

He can't survive out there for long.

Can he?

David. I will find you.

. ~=+*'`'*+=~.

Please, let me know what you think! <3

Sincerely,

Emma Michaels

Teaser Tuesday: The Everafter

2011-06-27T20:35:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

My Teaser:

""I am not doing anything," I tell her honestly.

As the planchette spells out I-S-E-E-Y-O-U, the other girls become deathly quiet. All jokes have ended."

The Everafter by Amy Huntley - page 81

Cover/Title Reveal for book 2!!!!

2011-06-24T20:28:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who was so amazing and supportive about book one, The Thirteenth Chime. I got so many compliments on my publisher's choice for the cover that I am thrilled to show you the new cover. So you have a little reminder of TTC's cover:

Now for book two's cover/title reveal:

The Title is: ANASAZI!!!!

Let me know what you think of the cover! Release is August 5th 2011!!!! We are almost there!!!!!!!

Book Trailer Thursday: Lies: a Gone novel

2011-06-23T04:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: Firelight

2011-06-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

My Teaser:

"And almost as if I've summoned him, I feel him arrive. My skin shivers, and the tiny hairs at my nape stand on end. Like in the hall today before I even saw him, but knew he was near."
Firelight by Sophie Jordan - page 73

The Thirteenth Chime on Kindle ($2.99!)

2011-06-17T21:34:00.000-07:00

Finally! The Kindle issue is solved thanks to Amazon's wonderful help. Turns out the error was not on their side or the side of my publisher so it was easy to fix and now The Thirteenth Chime is finally on Kindle and up on the Amazon Website! Only $2.99! For those of you who have been asking, Yes, it does mean that book two will be available on Kindle for the actual release! ARCs will be going out soon to the review team since the final stages are finally finished, so expect to start seeing more information!

Looking forward to sharing book two with everyone! If there are any requests or ideas for guest posts, interview questions, blog stops, sneak peeks and special hints or events let me know! So much is planned so keep checking back!

Some of the things to look forward to:
Twitter Release Party
Cover reveal
Guest Posts
Sneak Peeks
The Guessing Game
Giveaways
Swag! (Bookmarks, Post cards, stickers, etc.)
Interactive posts
And so much more!

It is going to be a blast and I for one can hardly wait!!! Any and all ideas appreciated! I want to make some serious waves and try some new things! No idea is a silly one so feel free to post any of them! Looking forward to hearing from you!

Book Trailer Thursday: The Awakening

2011-06-16T04:00:00.001-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: Pretty Little Liars

2011-06-14T04:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

My Teaser:

I watch the TV series so I just have to try the books!

"Aria breathed heavily. She couldn't speak even if she wanted to. So she turned and ran for the door. As her hand turned the doorknob, something screamed past her, bounced off the wall, and landed next to her foot."

Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepard - page 261

Book Trailer Thursday: The Graveyard Book

2011-06-09T04:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: The Predicteds

2011-06-07T04:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

My Teaser:

I grabbed this book at BEA and decided to share the very first line because it was part of what really got my attention (awesome cover right?):

"Attention: There has been a shooting on school grounds. The building is currently under full lockdown. Please check back here for updates. -Quiet High website"

The Predicteds by Christine Seifert - page 3 (first of ch 1 and not prologue)

Yes, that is seriously how it starts. As you can imagine, while it wasn't the book I planned on reading first after my haul it ended up becoming first after that line. I just couldn't help myself!

Review: Guardian of the Gate by Michelle Zink

2011-06-03T18:46:00.000-07:00

Novel: Guardian of the Gate
Author: Michelle Zink
Pages: 352
Genre: Young Adult

The ultimate battle between sisters is nearing, and its outcome could have catastrophic consequences. As sixteen year-old Lia Milthorpe searches for a way to end the prophecy, her twin sister Alice hones the skills she'll need to defeat Lia. Alice will stop at nothing to reclaim her sister's role in the prophecy, and that's not the only thing she wants: There's also Lia's boyfriend James.

Lia and Alice always knew the Prophecy would turn those closest to them against them. But they didn't know what betrayal could lead them to do. In the end, only one sister will be left standing.

(I will not be posting any spoilers! Only opinion for the sake of those of us who love to have our first look at a book be untainted by foreknowledge.)

I absolutely loved Guardian of the Gate and Michelle Zink's writing style is hauntingly beautiful. I was on a plane ride and ended up taking a break from the book because of traveling, (I can't read on a plane or in a car) by the time I got home I could hardly wait and instead of unpacking I ended up on the bed reading. The story is told so beautifully that I can't help being swept off my feet. I want the next book!!! All of the characters grow in different ways, some ways you will be proud of, others you might be ashamed. One of the points to this book that I love was hearing more about both sisters than only one. I am always curious about the other side of things and am looking forward to finding out more. I also LOVE Demitri, he is seriously yummy and another reason I can hardly wait for the next novel! Gimme, gimme, gimme! Thank goodness I only have to wait until September!

5 Star!

Would I suggest you read it:

Yes! I love the Michelle Zink novels. This series is definitely worth your time. It has a very unique feel to it because of the wonderful writing style!

Book Trailer Thursday: Elixir

2011-06-02T20:33:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: Dead Beautiful

2011-05-31T04:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My Teaser:

I laughed. “Are you implying that Dante Berlin is dead?”
Nathaniel blushed and looked at his plate, from which he had barely eaten anything. “I… don’t know. It was just an observation.”
Eleanor smiled, twirling a ringlet of hair around her finger. “Dead Beautiful.”

Dead Beautiful by Yvonne Woon – page 152

Book Trailer Thursday: The Sweet Far Thing

2011-05-26T04:00:00.000-07:00

Review: Psion Beta by Jacob Gowans

2011-05-25T04:00:00.000-07:00

Novel: Psion Beta
Author: Jacob Gowans
Genre: YA (Dystopia)

Sammy, a 14-year-old fugitive, accidentally discovers he has the powers of a Psion.

Plucked off the streets, he is thrust into the rigorously-disciplined environment of Psion Beta headquarters. As a new Beta, Sammy must hone his newfound abilities using holographic fighting simulations, stealth training missions, and complex war games. His fellow trainees are other kids competing to prove their worth so they can graduate and contribute to the war effort.

But the stifling competition at headquarters isolates Sammy from his peers. Learning to use his incredible abilities powers is difficult enough, but when things go horribly wrong on a routine training mission, he must rely on the other Betas to stay alive.

The Silent War is at a tipping point; even one boy can be the difference.

But to do so, he must survive.

There are so many dystopias coming out of the woodworks but this one is one of my very favorites now. I will be anxiously awaiting book two for the next few months until it is hopefully released! Normally, when you see a book that is self published and marked at a low ebook price it is a mix of emotions. You see this great price and then there is that ultimate question of will the book live up to your standards and be something you can enjoy. This book went above and beyond for me. It was great! Amazing Dystopia read, great characters, great overall plot and a new twist of the dystopias that have been coming out recently.

It gives a militaristic twist and the fantasy aspect has a science to it that gives it a more realistic feeling. The main character is very different than most of the character I read about. He was born and lived in Africa before being recruited and the way he thinks is something I think that either gender can relate to. He isn’t perfect and neither are any of the other characters giving them more character depth. Overall, I would suggest it to anyone interested in dystopias. Great book for anyone trying to find something for a younger guy who it might be hard to keep interested or any and all fans of The Hunger Games series.

(Check out the Kindle version, it is SUPER affordable! Last I checked it was only $2.99!)

Teaser Tuesday:Psion Beta

2011-05-24T12:19:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My Teaser:
Sammy opened his eyes. All six Shocks lay on the ground. Their scattered guns cast points of light in all directions.
He looked at his hands and back to the motionless shocks. “What happened?”

Psion Beta by Jacob Gowans - Page 27

( The Kindle book is only $2.99 and well worth it!! )

Project to Published: "You are a Mustang"

2011-05-22T04:00:00.000-07:00

Project to Published

advice for other authors, writers and lit lovers

"You are a Mustang"

You are a human, not a machine. I keep hearing about writers who are quitting or thinking of quitting because they can’t force themselves to sit down and write when they want to. Here is the thing, you are not a horse that is meant to be broken and saddled. You are a mustang.

While my fiancé and I may not own horses or be avid horse riders there is something so beautiful about a horse that neither of us can help but admire. Something so free about their spirit but the most beautiful sight he or I have seen when it came to horses was when they were wild. When their spirits drove them where they wanted to go and they danced in dust storms and ran as fast as their hooves could take them simply because they wanted to.

You shouldn’t be trying to force words from your mind with such monotony that the words stop flowing completely. I know I say to keep a schedule and to keep working at it because writing is a muscle that has to be exercised but you also need to remember that you are not a horse that needs to be broken and saddled. I don’t really think that a broken horse is what most leading publishers are after. They don’t want a horse where they have to find a worn road and send them trotting along with people always riding their backs, they want a mustang that will follow the paths they find and when they run out of path, they make one.

Your writing shouldn’t be like running in circles in a training ring, it should be dancing in dust storms and running as fast as your legs can take you because believe it or not, that is what your writing is, it is freedom. You have a blank page you can do anything with. That person you imagine being, the person you want to be, that blank page can make you that person if you let it and before you know it, you aren’t in a ring riding in circles, you are dancing in the wind and the words are flowing just as fast. That feeling you feel when you let yourself go and your hands fly across the keys faster than you even realize until that moment when you look down and suddenly, you have pages written. Never forget that feeling.

Hold that feeling in your heart as your own little secret with yourself because that feeling is a writers true freedom. In that moment you aren’t just a writer, you are a mustang.

Book Trailer Thursday: Laviathan

2011-05-19T12:15:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: Wicked: Witch & Curse

2011-05-17T04:00:00.000-07:00

We have to stand our ground, make this our moment, stand our ground, break the curse. Stand our ground…
… it’s so hot; I’m so scared…

Wicked: Witch & Curse by Nancy Holder and Debbi Viguie – page 350

FMBBF and the Blog Hop!

2011-05-13T04:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: The Ghost and the Goth

2011-05-10T04:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My Teaser:

This “thing” was the reason I knew Alona Dare hadn’t committed suicide, no matter what the rumors were. When you killed yourself, all the negative energy – the sadness, the self-loathing, the fear and the desperation – remained.

The Ghost and the Goth by Stacey Kade – page 67

Review: The Haunted by Jessica Verdey

2011-05-07T04:00:00.000-07:00

Novel: The Haunted

Author: Jessica Verday

Pages: 480

Genre: Young Adult

An impossible truth. An impossible love.
After a summer spent reclaiming her sanity and trying to forget the boy she fell in love with—the boy who must not exist, cannot exist, because she knows that he is dead—Abbey returns to Sleepy Hollow, ready to leave the ghosts of her past behind. She throws herself into her schoolwork, her perfume-making, and her friendship with Ben, her cute and funny lab partner, who just might be her ticket to getting over Caspian once and for all.
But Abbey can never get over Caspian, and Caspian has no choice but to return to her side, for Caspian is a Shade, and Abbey is his destiny. They are tied not only to each other, but also to the town of Sleepy Hollow, and to the famous legend that binds their fates—a legend whose dark truths they are only beginning to guess....

(I will not be posting any spoilers! Only opinion for the sake of those of us who love to have our first look at a book be untainted by foreknowledge.)

I NEED THE NEXT BOOK! This series is one of my favorites, not the top one but in the top ten which considering how often I read means I loved it a LOT. The most important thing for me with second novels in series is that the story progress at a reasonable pace, the characters develop more fully and that I have a hard time putting it down even to remember that human beings need food to survive. Not only is this a wonderful series that is descriptive enough to pull me in but I love the concept and the characters. They have quirks I can imagine in my friends which makes characters more real for me. Making perfume, making metal lined necklaces and other personal interests are part of what makes this series so special for me. I never even thought about perfume making or scents before this novel because to be perfectly honest I can hardly ever smell anything. Now when I go through a store and see those beautiful little containers of perfume, I think of this series and I probably always will on some level. I love that and can hardly wait for the next novel! I am in the middle of so many series right now but this one continues to stand out for me. I just love it!

5 Star!

Follow My Book Blog Friday

2011-05-06T04:00:00.000-07:00

If you are not a part of my book tour for my second novel and want to be please email me at: Emma_Michaels@hotmail.com!!!! There are tons of plans, a forum to connect with the rest of the group and you get all the updates first! I know I haven't said much about it yet but the big announcements are coming up soon! Can hardly wait it is going to be a blast!!!
It is the sequel to:

To join the fun and make now book blogger friends, just follow these simple rules:

1. Follow the Follow My Book Blog Friday Host { http://www.Parajunkee.com + http://www.crazy-for-books.com/ } and any one else you want to follow on the list
2. Put your Blog name & URL in the Linky thing.
3. Grab the button up there and place it in a post, this post is for people to find a place to say hi in your comments
4. Follow Follow Follow as many as you can
5. If someone comments and says they are following you, be a dear and follow back. Spread the Love...and the followers
6. If you want to show the link list, just follow the link below the entries and copy and paste it within your post!
7. If your new to the follow friday hop, comment and let me know, so I can stop by and check out your blog!

Happy Follow Friday!

Follow it up with your twitter address if you want to get that one out!
*********

Stop by the host sites for the lists!!!

BEA research and LINKY!

2011-05-05T11:42:00.000-07:00

As many of you know I am a bit of a researcher. Okay, maybe more than a bit and I love to plan ahead so I decided to post my finds about BEA in May. It is my first year so of course I want to have everything planned out as much as possible so that I have some idea of what to expect. So here is a compilation of everything that I have found around the blogosphere! Feel free to add anything you would like in the comment! You can add other advice, link to your own posts, link to parties and get-togethers or anything you would like! Please when you read add your name to the linky if you will be at BEA!

The Do’s and Don’ts of BEA:

1. Post your (up-to-date) picture before BEA while letting everyone know you are attending so that they might recognize you.

This is me, I don’t bite and love talking with just about anyone who loves literature of any kind (Yes, the chair makes me look small but I am 5'8" so I swear it is just a REALLY big chair):

And I will be walking around with my best blogger buddy Keri from the wonderful Quill Café http://quillcafe.blogspot.com

2. The most popular tip: Wear good (sensible) shoes. Your feet will hurt no matter what but at least they will hurt less. (as http://www.readingwithtequila.com/ says in her post “nothing says comfort like limping in hooker boots”)

3. Another extremely popular: Don’t be shy.

(You will miss out on meeting a lot of wonderful people if you don’t talk with the people around you. We all love books or we wouldn’t be there so books are probably a great ice breaker. If you are naturally very shy, don’t worry about it and go ahead of try anyhow, most of us are normally shy outside of talking to other book lovers.)

4. Everyone worries about what they should wear and almost everyone will tell you something a little bit different. Personally after reading over 20 posts I have decided that it doesn’t matter as long as you are presentable and comfortable. You can wear anything from jeans and a tee to a suit. Most of us concentrate more on a person’s mind and not their clothes but remember that if you have anything else you are doing any specific day you will also want it to be suitable for that. For instance, if you are planning on meeting with business individuals one day then go ahead and wear a suit or if you are planning on a night on the town maybe something that can double as an outfit for after BEA if you can’t make it back to where you are staying before an event.

5. You don’t have to be famous to fit in. As said above, we all love books.

6. Business cards! Easiest explanation is would you rather have to write down your info 500 times in three days or just hand someone a piece of paper. There are going to be a lot of people you might connect with and you won't want to miss a chance at a new friendship or connection in the industry.

7. You don’t have to take the taxi everywhere or your bank account will suffer, there are buses, the subway and a lot of areas within walking distance. So if you are worried about the money then just get a subway pass and it can normally at least get you close to anywhere you want to go. Walking it free from there. (Plus, it is like an adventure, you never know what you might see along the way!)

8. Food: Make time for food, eat said food, don’t fall over because of forgetting food and remember you are going to be on your feet for hours you will need the energy and not want the tummy ache while in a line you want to get to the front of. Eat a big breakfast, take snacks with you, do whatever you have to do but make sure you are fed because you will need the energy. (This includes water, you don’t want to get dehydrated or your head will be pounding while you talk to everyone and you could run the risk of fainting.)

9. Remember to be professional when speaking, this doesn’t mean not to have fun conversation that is not work related, it means don’t cuss openly because most people won’t appreciate it in a business setting, don’t down talk others, and generally it just means be polite while still having fun.

10. There are tons of things after 5pm when you have time to wonder the town that you can do for free or for a price. Really depends on what you want. So don’t be afraid to take the tourist route and look up things you want to get to see while in New York. There is central park, the statue of liberty, the empire state building and so much more! Don’t be afraid to explore!

11. Most people actually don’t know this one but there are a lot of meet ups after BEA for all three days and if you are a book blogger then also for BBC. Scour the net or talk to the people you meet!

12. Don’t be offended if someone doesn’t know your name or recognize you even though they read your blog. Remember, we will be meeting tons of people in the span of three days and while we will probably recognize blogs when we see them normally we don’t stare at profile images so as long as you give us a business card we will probably go home and be like “Oh, ya! I love this blog.” But without our laptops in hand to type out each address it will probably take some time to sink in.

13. For book bloggers who are going don’t forget that there is BBC this year! Yep, that is right, the Book Blogger Convention. Please sign up because it is going to be a blast! I will be one of the authors for the author speed dating! So far the plans sound amazing!

14. If you went to BEA two years ago and not last year or this year WARNING: Book blogger do not get in free anymore. Both last year and this year you have had to pay. While I wasn’t there last year or the year before I have heard a lot in comments on the posts I read. No, we don’t get in free so you DO want to register ahead of time. If you register for BBC too then it will cost less so you should check it out: If you need help with registration here is the link of instructions for how to register for the BBC and it includes the price of BEA. http://bookbloggerconvention.com/2010/12/2011-book-blogger-convention-registration-is-open/

15. If you are a twitter fan then you can check out the ever growing #BEA11 (or #Bookexpo) hashtag and get a head start on who is coming!

16. I know a lot of you will be hoping that your favorite author will be there and they might but you should also know that with the way that author tours work and showcasing in the publishing industry, some authors go to one event and not others and vice versa. I know a number of authors I hope will be there but you never really know unless they are included in one of the booths, signings, etc.

17. Rolling luggage. I work out quite a bit though you might not know it to look at me and even with yoga, walking, martial arts and Jullian Michaels workouts I still don’t want to be hauling around all the books I know I am going to want to grab. I think my arms would just about fall off by day two. Thus, the wonderful rolling luggage that you can check into baggage check for what I have heard is 3$ but I would make sure to have more for incase the price goes up. You never know. Do not take this rolling luggage onto the exhibit floor though, you can check back to your luggage every once in a while and drop off your books but you don’t want to trip everyone while walking around.

18. If you want to go to a specific author signing that you will need a ticket or pass for, get the ticket or pass the first day if possible. It will save you time and you will know that you can make it.

19. Try not to take more copies or ARCs than what you actually need, remember that all of us will be wanting ARCs and the second copy you take, if only for yourself is probably going to be taken from someone else. If you ask and someone say yes then if you feel you need it go for it but please try to be considerate.

20. Don’t cut in line.

21. Go to the author breakfast, you don’t actually HAVE to order anything and you never know who you might meet. There is a different price for the different seats this year.

22. The most popular traveling suggestion outside of BEA for where you should go as a book lover is a bookstore called The Strand. Keri recently moved to New York so checked it out and says it is totally worth it and a book lovers dream! (Lenore has a great list of places around New York City worth visiting: http://presentinglenore.blogspot.com/2010/02/prepare-for-bea-2010.html )

23. Sharing a hotel room can really help with the cost of the trip, staying with a friend or family member also works.

24. Early bird gets the worm!

25. If you get over stacked with books there is a shipping room! You can ship them home without even needing to find a post office!

26. Breath mints. Please. You will be talking all day so don’t let your breath offend anyone!

27. For more information on what authors will be there or what novels to expect you can use this link: http://searchitfindit.bookexpoamerica.com/

28. While in town you should check out the Teen Author Carnival!
http://teenauthorcarnival.blogspot.com/p/tac-11.html

29. Add you Link so we can get to know you!(It can be a link to anything from a blog to a Twitter or Facebook!)

Book Trailer Thursday: Wicked Lovely

2011-05-05T04:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: The Replacements

2011-05-03T04:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My Teaser:

The air was too thick to breath, almost like water, and the ground had stopped feeling cold.
I turned my face into the grass and wondered if this was how people felt when they knew they were going to die.

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff – page 153

Project to Published: Keys to a Successful Signing

2011-05-01T04:00:00.000-07:00

Keys to a Successful Signing

My very first book signing was at one of the largest book festivals in California, the OCCBF (Orange County Children’s Book Festival). Although I had already received notice, I was still competing against a lineup of other authors, some well known and others who were newcomers, just like myself. Each of us had our own unique approach to how we conducted our individual signing.

Honestly? I was terrified of my first signing. I wondered if anyone would show up to see me and if they did, would they buy my first book. I was only given so many hours before another author would get to have my booth. I was also given a large box of my books from my publisher, in addition to what I had brought with me, for 'just in case'. I was very glad they did that before my day was half over.

I talked with the other authors and they told me about some of their past experiences, ideas that worked and ones that didn't. On the internet you will find a wide assortment of blogs and articles that other authors have put together about their signings and how to make them successful. Here is what I personally discovered and learned during the OCCBF.

1. Early bird catches the worm
2. Don't be a Bambi
3. Collaborate, collaborate, collaborate!
4. Speak up and make eye contact
5. Don't be afraid to try something new

It is an old saying, but the quote "the early bird catches the worm" fits any signing perfectly. I arrived early to my signing and the first thing I did was to talk to everyone there. I spoke to volunteers, employees, other authors and even the group in charge of our lunch (this last one wasn't because they had free chocolate available... honest!). I learned a great deal from speaking to each person and I knew everyone by their first name before the signing began (even if I was terrible at remembering those names so not all of them stuck). This is important because your signing isn't just about the people who buy your book and ask for your autograph - it's about the ones who help to make the signing happen.

Don't be a Bambi means that you shouldn't allow yourself to be caught like a deer in headlights. If you freeze up, take a deep breath and jump into doing something no matter what it is. Organize your swag and books in front of you, turn to someone new, smile and say hello, go wash your hands, straighten your hair and look yourself firmly in the eyes, telling yourself that you can do this - that you will make it happen. My fiancé, who went with me to the signing, impressed me the most because he is naturally introverted, but he dived right in to speaking to everyone when he noticed I froze my first few minutes. Seeing him do that made me smile and I was ready for anything.

Collaborating is important. Collaborate with friends, family, volunteers (there for you and the event), and most importantly, other authors. We're all in this together and by sticking by one another, not only can we help each other but together we can do what one person alone could never hope to accomplish. Success isn't just about one person doing well - it's about all of us sharing what we accomplished together. It's good marketing, it benefits everyone, and we help each other as a team.

This one I learned from my psychologist fiancé - speak up and make eye contact. Michael once told me he felt that authors should take business etiquette and marketing courses. I never understood what he meant until my first signing. He is right (but shhh! don't tell him I said so) because while we may have a group of people who are coming to see us as authors personally, it is the groups of people who did not expect to see us that we also want to reach. We have to look a person in the eye and say "Hello! Would you like to see what I have to offer?" (Not in those exact words, remember you aren’t a used car salesman.) Our books can sell on their own, but in order to encourage people to give them a chance, we have to open the door before they will step inside.

This last one I can't stress enough - don't be afraid to try something new! The world's greatest concepts and inventions were not created because of commonplace, average ideas. They came to be because someone had an 'off-the-wall' idea that succeeded because they made it succeed. Listen to any tape or read a book about being successful in business and what is the first thing they tell a person? It is the person who takes an outlandish idea and makes it successful. We, as authors, have everything we need inside of us to be successful - we just have to let our ideas flourish.

Yes, I do have more tips if you would like them. If you are a starting author (like I am, I am just sharing my journey and knowledge as I learn, hopefully for many years to come.) never hesitate to e-mail me and let me know what posts might be helpful for you! Or for readers who have questions! Anyone wanting to submit an idea or question feel free to e-mail me at: Emma_Michaels@hotmail.com anytime.

Yes I will be going again this year and here is a picture from last year:

So many people were there last year! I can hardly wait to go this year on Oct 2nd! It will be a blast!
http://kidsbookfestival.com/

Sincerely,
Emma Michaels

Follow My Book Blog Friday

2011-04-29T13:38:00.000-07:00

Book Trailer Thursday: Before I Fall

2011-04-28T04:00:00.000-07:00

Book Trailer Thursday: Paranormalcy

2011-04-20T18:31:00.000-07:00

Book Trailer Thursday: Hearts at Stake

2011-04-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

Review: Night World No. 1 by L. J. Smith

2011-04-10T20:46:00.000-07:00

Novel: Night World No.1: Secret Vampire, Daughters of Darkness, Spellbinder
Author: L. J. Smith
Pages: 752
Genre: YA (Fantasy)

Vampires, werewolves, witches, shapeshifters -- they live among us without our knowledge. Night World is their secret society, a secret society with very strict rules. And falling in love breaks all the laws of the Night World.

In Secret Vampire, Poppy thought the summer would last forever. Then she was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Now Poppy's only hope for survival is James, her friend and secret love. A vampire in the Night World, James can make Poppy immortal. But first they both must risk everything to go against the laws of Night World.

Fugitives from Night World, three vampire sisters leave their isolated home to live among humans in Daughters of Darkness. Their brother, Ash, is sent to bring the girls back, but he falls in love with their beautiful friend.

Two witch cousins fight over their high school crush. It's a battle between black magic and white magic in Spellbinder.

(I will not be posting any spoilers! Only opinion for the sake of those of us who love to have our first look at a book be untainted by foreknowledge.)

Okay, since there are three stories in this one novel I will be talking about each. I love Poppy! And her story is amazing and heartfelt and you come to enjoy her… though there is one moment that I don’t get as much as others who are actually able to use candles might. Poppy was lovable and her story is wonderful.

Then you have the sisters of darkness who are all lovable in their own different ways and in some ways not as lovable but I still loved them each. The main girl is wonderful and a pleasure to read about especially because it is finally a character with a head properly attached to her shoulders and a strong mind even included! Which shows true in the second story. Even her brother is lovable in his own way. You even start to not hate one of the characters as much as you may have previously. (Nener Nener not going to elaborate you just have to read it!) The last story finished it off with a unique magical battle and Overall I think that L.J. Smith has done another wonderful job on another collection of short stories that are well worth your time.

1st story: 5 stars!
2nd Story: 5 stars!
3rd story: 3 stars!

Would I suggest you read it:

Yes! You will want to read the first story if you are going to read the second so that you will understand specific points in the story. If you enjoyed ‘The Vampire Diaries Series’ then you will likely enjoy this as well, though maybe not as thoroughly as Stephan and Damon fighting over Elena. It is also great if you are wanting something to read after having finished what is out so far of ‘The Vampire Diaries Series’ and want it to have the same dark, alluring feeling yet enjoyable in every way.

Author’s Website:
http://www.ljanesmith.net/index.php

Extra Information:
The Author L.J. Smith is also known as L. Jane Smith and has an interesting gallery of images that were made for or by her of her characters. http://www.ljanesmith.net/gallery.php and there is even an image or two of her including her most well known image of herself hair flowing behind her and her hand stroking a unicorn made by Jan Sovak. There are images from this novel including of Poppy as well as from her other novels such as “The Vampire Diaries Series’. Hope you enjoy!

Follow My Book Blog Friday!

2011-04-08T09:52:00.000-07:00

Book Trailer Thursday: Nightshade

2011-04-07T11:02:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday: The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

2011-04-04T23:05:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read

• Open to a random page

• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)

• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My Teaser:

Before Bod could speak, the Seer’s voice spoke, echoing through the chamber. THIS IS THE PLACE OF THE TREASURE. THIS IS THE PLACE OF POWER.

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman– page 279

Book Trailer Thursday: My Soul to Save

2011-03-30T21:06:00.000-07:00

Here comes Book Trailer Thursday!

Every Thursday we (all who wish to join and the wonderful host: http://quillcafe.blogspot.com/) welcome everyone to join us in celebrating the awesomeness that is book trailers.

To participate, on a Thursday you post an entry in your blog with an embedded book trailer of your choice (note: the trailer can be fan made but please no movie trailers of book adaptations) with your thoughts and comments underneath. It can be a book you have read, want to read or have never even come across before.

My book trailer for this week is...

I love this series and while the faces in the video are not what I imagined while reading it really drew me towards My Soul to Save! Hope it will do the same for you!

Teaser Tuesday: The Serious Kiss

2011-03-29T14:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:
• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!
My Teaser:

I was speechless. I wanted to be a catcher, his catcher. I longed to communicate silently with him, with my hands and my eyes. I wanted to drown out all the background noise and concentrate on his every move.

The Serious Kiss by Mary Hogan – Page 67

MY SECOND NOVEL IS BEING RELEASED!

2011-03-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

Okay, so a lot of you are probably wondering why I have been MIA compared to my normal post everyday self. Now I can finally announce why! I can't release the dates or much info yet but I can tell you that slowly over the next few months through blog posts, my upcoming/ already started e-tour and more, you will be getting the facts as they are able to be released. What I can say now is that my next novel is being released later this year!!! Stay tuned and you will get to see the reveal of the cover, sneak peaks, exerts, giveaways and more!!!!

*Happy Dance*

Let me know if there is anything you would like to see as a part of the eTour or if you are not already a part of the team and would like to be feel free to e-mail me at: Emma_Michaels@hotmail.com or Emma@Emmamichaels.com

With all the joy in my heart,
Emma

For those of you

who haven't seen or read the first novel yet:

OR Your can get the e-book for only 2.99!!!!!
http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/21195
Yes it is all ebook types!

A list of all available locations is in my sidebar >>>>

Review: Dark Visions Series by L J. Smith

2011-03-13T10:23:00.000-07:00

Novel: Dark Visions: The Strange Power, The Possessed, The Passion
Author: L.J. Smith
Pages: 752
Genre: YA (Fantasy)

(<<

GIFTED AND CURSED
Kaitlyn Fairchild has always felt like an outsider in her small hometown. Her haunting eyes and prophetic drawings have earned her a reputation as a witch. But Kait's not a witch: She's a psychic. Tired of being shunned, Kait accepts an invitation to attend the Zetes Institute, where she can have a fresh start and study with other psychic teens.

Learning to hone her abilities with four other gifted students, Kait discovers the intensity of her power -- and the joy of having true friends. But those friendships quickly become complicated when Kait finds herself torn between two irresistible guys. Rob is kind and athletic, and heals people with his good energy. Gabriel is aggressive and mysterious, a telepath concealing his true nature as a psychic vampire, feeding off of others' life energy. Together, Rob and Gabriel's opposing forces threaten the group's stability.

Then one of the experiments traps the five teens in a psychic link. A link that threatens their sanity and their lives. And Kaitlyn must decide whom to trust...and whom to love.

(I will not be posting any spoilers! Only opinion for the sake of those of us who love to have our first look at a book be untainted by foreknowledge.)

I did enjoy this book. There were some parts I had a hard time getting through but overall it was almost addictive. I got it from the library and started reading and next thing you know I am having a hard time stopping. I had to be bribed to get to sleep and even then it didn’t work very well until I was completely finished with the book. I love the differences between Gabriel and Adam and I love Anna’s character. Overall each of the five main characters in the link are so lovable in their own ways. Lewis is adorable! Anna tends to keeps her emotions to herself making her the person who Kaitlyn can truly count on because she always puts Kaitlyn first. It is an entirely new twist on Vampires in some ways and on witches.

Rob is amazing and there are many parts where you start to feel the same things as Kaitlyn for a moment before catching yourself and trying to force yourself to breathe again (“It’s okay… it is only a book…. It is only a….*flips page*) I will warn you though that this book is darker than some of L.J. Smiths others. Part of the reason it is so much darker is simply because of the premise and because of just how believable the characters are. I hope you will enjoy this book because I did.

Would I suggest you read it:

Yes! All L. J. Smith fans are bound to love this novel and Gabriel’s dark personality that contrasts to Adam’s so well.

Author’s Website:
http://www.ljanesmith.net/

Review: The Sleeping Beauty by Mercedes Lackey

2011-03-03T08:53:00.000-08:00

Novel: The Sleeping Beauty
Author: Mercedes Lackey
Pages: 336
Genre: FICTION - ADULT: Romance: Other

With signs and traditions pointing to an all-out war set to break out among the kingdoms, Rosamund, the king's daughter, is "playing dead" as two princes show up at the palace intent on waking her with a kiss. But, as the two of them start to fight it out, Rosa's godmother cuts them all short and takes charge. Now, with two princes competing for the hand of Sleeping Beauty-one of them, the one with roving hands (Prince Leopold) probably "should" be her prince, while the other (Prince Siegfried) doesn't seem to belong here at all-more complications occur. The king dies and the neighbors start looking at Rosa's kingdom. But with the palace filling with young and old princes intent on winning Rosamund's love, invading the kingdom and putting those young men in peril would mean incurring the wrath of thirty other countries!

(I will not be posting any spoilers! Only opinion for the sake of those of us who love to have our first look at a book be untainted by foreknowledge.)

This novel was full of surprises. I had never read one of the Tales of the Five Hundred Kingdoms before and now am definitely going to have to look into the other four installations in the series. I think there may have been a few details I was not able to understand because of not having read the previous four novels but I look forward to read them and then re-reading this novel because it is amazing and I really feel that I sold myself short. Wonderful concept and a rollercoaster of emotions, mostly laughter. Sleeping Beauty was filled with twists and turns that had me laughing until I could hardly breath. Definitely a great book for anyone who needs a more humorous book to read that still has more to it than meets the eyes.

4 Stars!

Would I suggest you read it:

Yes! I would suggest this to anyone who is a fan of Mercedes Lackey, romances with humor, old stories with a new twist or if you just love princess novels.

(This novel was received through netGalley. This does not change my stance, opinion or effect my views in any way.)

Teaser Tuesday: Vesper by Jeff Sampson

2011-02-28T12:06:00.000-08:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read

• Open to a random page

• Share two (2 or more) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)

• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My Teaser:

I was officially grounded.

I know in the grand scheme of things, especially considering all the insanity of the past few days, being grounded should have been the least of my problems. But here’s the thing: I had never once been grounded in my entire life.

Vesper by Jeff Sampson - page - 135

Review: Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink

2011-02-24T13:26:00.000-08:00

Novel: Prophecy of the Sisters
Author: Michelle Zink
Pages: 352
Genre: Young Adult

In Michelle Zink's debut novel, orphaned twin sister Lia and Alice Milthorpe are yoked together in an ancient prophecy that makes them enemies and could destroy them both. If Lia can break this familial curse, she can not only save her relationship with her beloved boyfriend; she can finally resolve the mystery behind her parents' death.

(I will not be posting any spoilers! Only opinion for the sake of those of us who love to have our first look at a book be untainted by foreknowledge.)

The Prophecy of the Sisters is both stunning and haunting. It was an absolutely amazing read that I don’t think I will be forgetting any time soon. I want The Guardian of the Gate now! I am almost tempted to get the e-book even though I don’t have an e-reader just because it will be a while until I will be at a book store but I want it now! There is an intoxicating depth to the story that fills you and leaves you feeling completely different. The plot only adds to that story, especially when the lines between fact and fiction are so close to blurred. There are moments in the book where a story fact will arise that you know isn’t true in our world but it is so close that you can almost believe it without even realizing, making Lia’s story all the more real to the reader.

At first it is a bit slower but give it time to seep in and it will. Then next thing you know you are sucked in and hardly able to force yourself to stop turning the pages. I had this book with me on a flight back from a signing in California and when I got home I was only part of the way finished but was so busy I didn’t get to pick it up for a few days. Let me tell you, the longer I waited the more I wanted to read it! Finally, I took an unplanned day off and went through the entire book and now want the next!

I am so thrilled that I read this novel and would definitely suggest it to anyone! I am really impressed with Michelle Zink and will be keeping an eye on the shelves for all of her future novels.

5 Stars!

Would I suggest you read it:

YES YES YES YES YES!!!! I can’t say it enough. I loved it!

Project to Published: Why Those First Few Pages are Important

2011-02-20T10:32:00.000-08:00

Project to Published

Why Those First Few Pages are Important

This is one area I agonized over when I was writing my first novel. The first ten pages of a book are very important because agents, publishers and readers will use those pages to decide if they want to keep reading. They must contain a hook, something interesting and a story that will shoot their eyebrows straight up to the ceiling.

No pressure, right? Ha.

Getting through that first chapter was really difficult for me. When I reached the second chapter, however, I noticed writing became easier, more fluid. The more I wrote, the easier it became. So, naturally, I turned back to my first chapter once I felt this way and tried to iron it out. Return of the frustration.
Pursing my lips, I turned back to the depths of my manuscript and kept writing. The fluidity returned and I tried again with that first chapter. Same situation. I finished my final chapter and edited my draft before returning once again to that infuriating first chapter. At this point I was beginning to imagine little gremlins of frustration that would pop out of my closet to agitate my mind solely for those few pages.

I did the best I could with the chapter and then I began writing my query letter. Still, I couldn't help feeling as though that first chapter was not as good as it could be. What didn't help is that I began receiving standard form rejections from agents who stated they were accepting manuscripts on their websites but had 'auto-away' messages that sent automatic responses to anyone who sent an e-mail.

Out of frustration and a small growing sense of despair, I grabbed the whole chapter, shredded it and started anew. To help my creative juices flow and to make me feel better, my fiancé made me chocolate chip pancakes (I don't have a chocolate addiction - honest!) and asked me why I had tossed those first few pages away. I did my best to explain it to him and that logical mind of his that makes my eye twitch pointed out that if I wasn't enjoying those pages, then I could hardly expect anyone else to be either.

Biting my tongue as he had just been very sweet with the pancakes, I acknowledged his point but further explained that I felt I couldn't get those first few pages right. He played with his fork for a moment before asking me why I was stressing out about my writing on those pages when I had written an entire novel that he felt, bless his heart, was already a best-seller.

As I raised my finger to explain about the hook and why it was so important, I suddenly realized his point. I had written another novel! Sure, it was a few pages off, but I had done what part of me had doubted that I could do. Once I realized that, and how writers are merely observers, that it is the story that tells itself, I just knew how the story should begin.

For those of you who are agonizing about those first few pages - STOP! Stop, take a step back, take a deep breath and remember what you are there to accomplish. You know inside of you what you need to say on those first few pages, how to capture the hearts and minds of agents, publishers and readers. Don't think about it - just do it. Craft those pages the way you know how to and then put a surprising twist in them that even you didn't see coming. Let your story take the driver's seat and those first few pages just might start to become clearer in your mind. I know mine did!

Sincerely,
Emma Michaels

Review: The Ghost of Crutchfield Hall by Mary Downing Hahn

2011-02-17T10:40:00.000-08:00

Novel: The Ghost of Crutchfield Hall
Author: Mary Downing Hahn
Pages: 160
Genre: 9-12 (YA or Independent Reader)

When twelve-year-old Florence boards the crowded horse-drawn coach in London, she looks forward to a new life with her great uncle and aunt at Crutchfield Hall, an old manor house in the English countryside. Anything will be better, she thinks, than the grim London orphanage where she has lived since her parents' death.
But Florence doesn't expect the ghost of her cousin Sophia, who haunts the cavernous rooms and dimly lit hallways of Crutchfield and concocts a plan to use Florence to help her achieve her murderous goals. Will Florence be able to convince the others in the household of the imminent danger and stop Sophia before it's too late?

(I will not be posting any spoilers! Only opinion for the sake of those of us who love to have our first look at a book be untainted by foreknowledge.)

I love ghost stories and this was definitely a great one. It was a short easy read that gave just the right dose of everything. You have amazing concepts that gives a new spin on things, you have an evil girl you wish weren’t a ghost so you could slap her into her senses and you have an amazing family where each character really has their own lovable personality that pulls you towards them. You know when you were at a family dinner and everyone had their own strange flaws that you all know about or their own virtues you know and you look around and see then for who they really are but love them anyways? This novel has that. Mary Downing Hahn really managed to pull that off. The main girl is quiet a special young girl to me. She had a great deal on her plate and she managed to stay herself and not let herself get lost along the way. I loved this novel, absolutely wonderful ghost story that I look forward to hearing more opinions about!

5 Stars!

Would I suggest you read it:

Yes. If you love ghost stories, new spins on spirits or simply want a short read that can help you escape your life… go for it!

(This novel was received through netGalley. This does not change my stance, opinion or effect my views in any way.)

FMBBF!!!

2011-02-11T07:45:00.000-08:00

To join the fun and make now book blogger friends, just follow these simple rules:

1. Follow the Follow My Book Blog Friday Host { Parajunkee.com + http://www.crazy-for-books.com/} and any one else you want to follow on the list
2. Follow our Featured Bloggers - http://www.loganeturner.com/
3. Put your Blog name & URL in the Linky thing.
4. Grab the button up there and place it in a post, this post is for people to find a place to say hi in your comments
5. Follow Follow Follow as many as you can
6. If someone comments and says they are following you, be a dear and follow back. Spread the Love...and the followers
7. If you want to show the link list, just follow the link below the entries and copy and paste it within your post!
8. If your new to the follow friday hop, comment and let me know, so I can stop by and check out your blog!

Happy Follow Friday!

Follow it up with your twitter address if you want to get that one out!
*********

Stop by the host sites for the lists!!!

What is your favorite romance hero-type? Stereotype wise. Do you like the strong silent type or the brute macho man?

Neither! I just can't fall for a character who doesn't have some emotional depth!