New Review for Wyndano’s Cloak on Amazon!

Wyndano's Cloak

Wyndano's Cloak

An Amazon reader posted a wonderful review of Wyndano’s Cloak, calling it, “A Book for Three Generations.” The book now has 22 five-star reviews and 5 four-star reviews out of a total of 27 reviews.

The reader’s review was am Amazon Verified Purchase. Referring to the book’s universal appeal, she also said,  “We are are all still just girls at heart, no matter what our age.” Made my day!

 

You can read all the reviews here!


 


Making Money as an Author

Making Money as an Author

Making Money as an Author

I met author Oli Hille in a Facebook group dedicated to helping authors succeed in publishing their work. In that group, Oli has been a tireless support to the many writers striving to live their dream. I’ve read and enjoyed several of Oli’s books, so when he offered to do a guest post about his latest release, I said, “Sure!” Join him now as Oli discusses how to make money as an author. Take it away, Oli!

 

I am blessed to be an Amazon #1 Bestselling author. But…

  • there is something about us authors!

We are often reluctant to allow ourselves the luxury of the thought that we can make money from our hard work! Plumbers don’t have this problem, office workers don’t, and construction workers don’t. But somewhere along the history of writing it has become accepted that we should spend hundreds of hours creating a wonderful book and then be delighted with a few crumbs in return!

 

Oh sure, we secretly imagine hitting the big time and being that one in a million celebrity author who travels business class from book signing to book signing – but we know it is just a harmless fantasy.

 

But the reality is in fact somewhere in between.

 

The problem with the “struggling writer” mindset is that it is not a sustainable Lifestyle. If you have to work 50 hours a week plus commuting, plus family time, plus time with your spouse, and keeping fit, and seeing friends…

  • well where is your writing time? And if you do manage to snatch an hour here or there do you bring energy and excitement or exhaustion to your writing?

Ten years ago, even once you finished your book, there was still a mountain to climb – an agent and a publisher. Even if you got through dozens of rejection slips and got accepted you had an 18 month lead time until your book hit the shelves.

 

Once your book hit the shelves, you got $2 for every $25 book sold because all of the “middle men” and the publisher took their cut.

 

And worst of all, very few authors sold more than a handful of copies of their books!

Shocking Statistics

Consider these shocking statistics from an article in Publisher’s Weekly, July 17, 2006:

Of 1.2 million books in print tracked by Nielsen Bookscan:

79% of books sold less than 99 copies.

Only four percent (4%) of books sold more than 1,000 copies.

Only two percent (2%) of books sold more than 5,000 copies.

 

 

Amazon – the Solution

 

After you finish reading this post you are going to think I work for Amazon – I don’t. In fact they work for me.

 

There are 1,000,000 Ebooks on Amazon right now and 260,000,000 customers (Get that? Too many customers, not enough products – 260 to 1).

Ebooks are outselling paper books at 25:1 (yup twenty five to one).

If you want to make money from a potential 260,000,000 people, and you could write a 20 page book – get a book up on Amazon NOW.

 

This weekend you could write a 20 page ebook on:

 

  • Your knowledge base;
  • Your hobby;
  • Your passion;
  • A short story;
  • A short novella;
  • Four very short stories;
  • That book you started years ago;
  • That book that got rejected by a publisher.

Something AMAZING that only you could write – and you will make money.

Amazon – sooooo Easy
Remember the 18 month lead time I talked about if you even got a publishing deal? Now when I finish a book, it takes me under 15 minutes to upload it to Amazon and I am making money within 24 hours.

 

FREE Videos

Do you want me to show you how EASY it is to upload a book to Amazon? I do it in this video absolutely live – in 12 minutes:

www.LifestyleBook.com/blog/authors-make-money

Do you want to watch a FULL webinar, that was over subscribed, that I took down from YouTube because of the HUGE amount of IP that I revealed? Here is the one hour and 48 minute webinar:

www.LifestyleBook.com/blog/authors-make-money

Your Genre

 

No matter how small your niche/genre – there is an audience for your book. 10 years ago you could not find an audience for a book in a small niche, but now with hundreds of millions of people purchasing on Amazon – it doesn’t matter how small your niche is.

 

Passive Income

 

Last October, I had never sold a book to anyone, now I have ten books on Amazon and my author income in February was US $3,119 and it has been going up every month.

 

None of it happened by accident – it was all part of a plan.

 

The plan is laid out in detail in my new book “How to Become an Amazon #1 Bestselling Author – and Make Money!”

 

 

Your Knowledge

 

Millions of people want to read about the knowledge YOU already have! Either your know-how (non-fiction) or your imagination (fiction).

 

And I am not talking about a 300 page book! I have two books on Amazon that are under 20 pages each that I wrote in a day – that are making me money!

 

 

How To Succeed on Amazon

 

I spent two years planning my book launch after I finished writing my book. I spent five months studying Amazon’s systems. In fact, I spent 2,087 unpaid hours finding out the secrets to successfully publishing your book on Amazon.

 

The great news for YOU is that I put all of my strategies and secrets into a 116 page book that you can use to make money as an author.

 

I told Peter Adler that I would allow people who read his blog to buy the book with a US $20 discount.

 

 

You Are Not Buying a Book!

 

I don’t want you to buy a book – I want to change your future as an author.

I don’t want you to buy a book – I want you to make an INVESTMENT in your career as a writer.

 

I want to give you the opportunity to increase your book sales and MAKE MONEY.

 

 

48 Hours ONLY

 

I can only reduce the price of the book by $20 for 48 hours. So click here now to get your discounted copy of my book “How to Become an Amazon #1 Bestselling – and Make Money!

 

www.LifestyleBook.com/amazon

 

 

Please “Like” and “Tweet” this post to help other authors.

 

Thank you.

 

Oli Hille

Amazon #1 Bestselling Author of “Creating the Perfect Lifestyle

www.Amazon.com/author/1

 

 

 

Reviews

Amazon #1 Bestselling author, Oli Hille, is a true master and authority on what it takes to succeed in the new world e-publishing. He has a proven track record and I found his information and expertise invaluable in helping to get my own book to #1 on Amazon. Oli Hille is someone to watch and I will continue to keep an eye on what he’s doing, because he is truly leading the pack.”
Richard Kelley, Author and MD

Without Oli’s information, support and authors’ challenge to get my book up before Christmas, I never would have had the tools and inspiration to take action and make it happen. Little did I know, that by employing his strategies I would hit #1 within 11 hours.”
Anna Morrison, BSN, RN, CLNC – Author

Oli helped me get my first book to #1 Amazon Bestseller Status, by providing inspiration, easily applicable practical tips and continual support during the launch.”
Lori Webb, Author

Oli has truly figured out the logarithm to get your book to #1 on Amazon. With his strategies, I developed some tactics and had my book hit #1 for Finance Education; #2 for Women in Business; #3 for Introduction to Investing!”
Holli Rovenger, Author

I had my book on Amazon for 3 months and felt the disappointment of nothing happening then I met Oli Hille! He taught me the techniques that he used to get his books to rise to through the ranks and become Amazon best sellers. I did not take much time and jumped on these techniques and within a week did a launch of my book. With Oli’s support my book became a best seller in two categories.”
Veronika Tracy-Smith, PhD

 

PS: Grab a heavily discounted copy of my book now:

 

www.LifestyleBook.com/amazon

 

 

PPS: See all of the 63 parts of the book here:

 

www.LifestyleBook.com/amazon

 

 

PPPS: Watch the seven FREE Videos with some of my Amazon strategies here:

 

www.YouTube.com/lifestylebook

 

Oli Hille, Author of "Creating the Perfect Lifestyle"

Oli Hille, Author of "Creating the Perfect Lifestyle"


The One That Got Away: Teaser Train Excerpt

The One That Got Away, By Kellianne Sweeney

The One That Got Away, By Kellianne Sweeney

Welcome to another edition of Teaser Train, bringing to you the work of talented indie authors. Today, we’ve got an excerpt from Kellianne Sweeney’s “The One That Got Away,” a story about a regular person given the opportunity to play with the big puzzle. Kellianne Sweeney has spent most of her adult life as a teacher, has also had many stories in her head for as long as she can remember. She firmly believes that imagination and creativity are what makes life three-dimensional. As the following excerpt demonstrates, she is amply endowed with both! On to the teaser!

I lost sense of time and place. I drifted in and out of reality. In actuality, I don’t even believe that I registered reality at all. There were periods when all that I could acknowledge was pure pain. Other times I was aware only of the cold and the details of the forest. During these moments it seemed as if the forest breathed and that I was merely a part of it as much as the trees, the grass, the insects and the dirt. Sometimes I would also slip into warm and comforting memories of Polly, my childhood and my budding career as a teacher. The worst periods were when my mind cycled again and again over the events of the torturous day. My soul screamed in silent despair and anguish with no voice or sense of direction.

My most lucid moment took place as evening fell. I am unable to say if it was at the end of that horrifying day, or if it was perhaps on another day. Time had no relevance or position. At this moment I was starkly awake. The cold felt harsh and my body pulsated with involuntary shivering. My mind was crazy with physical and emotional pain. All of my senses clicked into their proper places for a short while as I gazed up at two faces peering down at me. Concern and compassion radiated from them. A young girl and her mother. Indians, but with different dress and markings than the first pair I had encountered. Their expressions registered surprise at my awakening. I immediately tried to question them about my son, his whereabouts, his well being. No words formed. Only gagging and choking. I had forgotten that I no longer had a voice. The frustration and despair welled in my eyes, but no tears fell. I had no tears left to cry. How would I find my child if I couldn’t even speak? What if they had harmed him? The thought was more than I could bear. But still I could not cry. The woman lifted my head delicately and turned it to the side to facilitate my breath and expectoration of the clotted blood residing in my mouth. She gently returned my head to its’ former resting position and began to chant. The girl joined her. They placed each of their hands on me and continued in the soothing sing-song tune. Their hands permeated warmth into my being. In my mind’s eye I could almost see the warmth becoming light and twisting and twining within my body. I stared at them soundlessly, blankly. Their edges became blurred and white light seemed to be seeping slowly around them. Wearily, I let my eyes close. All was warm. All was still. Their song echoed in my brain and I drifted into comforting blackness.

I opened my eyes again. I found myself looking up at Anna and the violet eyed woman. They were not chanting, but I could still hear the faintest echo of the song receding into a corner of my mind. For a moment I thought that I could not speak. Then I remembered that I could. But then I did not know what to say. I lay there staring at them dumbly.

“Mama?” Anna ventured. She looked questioningly at the woman next to her.

“Anna, she is fine right now, my dear.”

The absolute absence of pain felt bewildering to me. The dream had felt so real, so wretchedly real.

Purchase “The One That Got Away” on Amazon

Visit Kellianne’s blog.

Visit Kellianne’s website

 

Teaser Train

Teaser Train!


Wyndano’s Cloak: Glowing Book Reviews!

Wyndano's Cloak, by A. R. Silverberry

Wyndano's Cloak, by A. R.Silverberry

Rachel Cotterill Reviews gave me a fabulous interview. She asked thought-provoking questions that penetrated to the heart of the story. Love it! Curious about sequels, prequels, and what I think about Place as Character, this interview reveals all! Rachel also reviewed “Wyndano’s Cloak,” calling it, “A sweet, gentle-hearted adventure which I think would be well-suited for younger readers . . . especially with the strong female characters which could be a good antidote to the traditional ‘helpless princess’ tales.”
Christine Cunningham, author of “Eternal Beginnings,” also reviewed “Wyndano’s Cloak,” calling it, “An excellent and meaty book! I felt like I was thirteen years old again and having all kinds of adventures . . . I would recommend this book highly for any young adult. It’s sure to become a quick favorite.”

Many thanks to Rachel and Christine for your kind words!


LinkedIn for Authors: Part IV on Social Media

Jason Baudendistel, Author of "The Complete idiot's Guide to LinkedIn Marketing"

Jason Baudendistel, Author of "The Complete idiot's Guide to LinkedIn Marketing"

Welcome to part four in a series on social media, featuring four authors with expertise and knowledge about effectively using Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Joining us today is Jason Baudendistel, author of “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to LinkedIn Marketing.” Jason is an entrepreneur, Linkedin consultant, and small business expert. He provides search engine optimization, web marketing services, and training to small businesses; and investment, life, and career coaching for individuals. I was especially interested in talking with him about how authors could make use of LinkedIn. On to the interview!

 

Silverberry: Tell us a little about yourself, your work, and what got you into social media.

 

Jason: I am a serial entrepreneur, bestselling author on Amazon.com, and social media and internet marketing consultant. I started learning social media all the way back when I ran my first business, the record label, “Bored Student Records.”

 

Silverberry: How is LinkedIn different from other types of social media?

 

Jason: Linkedin is the tool you use for the more professional audience. It’s users are more affluent, with higher incomes, but also are harder to sell to. Twitter is more branding only, and Facebook is more business to consumer, instead of business to business.

 

Silverberry: What can authors get from doing LinkedIn?

 

Jason: Branding opportunities, as well as free and low cost lead generation. If your book is business, entrepreneurship, or marketing related, Linkedin is a definite must.

 

Silverberry: Why is LinkedIn an important part of a writer’s marketing strategy?

Jason: As an author, you need to use every available option to generate leads and increase awareness for your book.

Silverberry: What proportion of time do you recommend that authors give to LinkedIn versus Facebook and Twitter, and why?

Jason: It depends on the type of book. If it is not business or marketing related, I would say twenty-five percent on each, with an additional twenty-five percent to search engine optimization (SEO). The reason why I broke it down into those percentages is each specific area drives traffic to your website. I feel that neglecting any of them is leaving

free traffic on the table.

Silverberry: What should writers try to accomplish with LinkedIn?

Jason: Brand yourself, create value, and interact. You want to be an ambassador for your book. Use groups; and tools, such as Signal.

Silverberry: Right, Signal helps you cut the noise and focus on what is relevant in the information stream. And those groups are very active, and great sources of information. You’ve written “The Complete Idiots Guide to LinkedIn Marketing.” What can readers find there?

Jason: An in depth guide for small business owners, authors, and entrepreneurs on how to get more low cost and free leads on Linkedin.

Silverberry: I also see that you offer individual chapters on how to create a profile, use LinkedIn, LinkedIn-specific marketing strategies, business branding, lead generation, and more! You’ve got 500+ connections on LinkedIn. How have you gained so many followers?

Jason: Networking, providing value, and participating in open networking groups.

Silverberry: Are there LinkedIn no’s no’s that authors should avoid?

Jason: Not filling out your profile and spamming are probably the two biggest ones.

Silverberry: What’s ahead for you?!

Jason: My next book, “The Trailer Park Millionaire;” the growth of my company, “Elite Web Training;” and marketing my latest product release, “Internet Marketing Success System.”

Jason, thank you so much for stopping by and sharing!

Links to Jason’s website, book, and social media:

Website: http://www.jasonbaudendistel.com/index.html

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/CompleteIdiotsLinkedInMarketingebook/dp/B006FODZOS/ref=pd_rhf_dp_p_img_3

Facebook Pages:

http://www.facebook.com/InternetMarketingSuccessSystem?sk=info

http://www.facebook.com/pages/EliteWebTraining/288485877854291?sk=info

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/JasonBaudendist

LinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=51902697&trk=tab_pro

If you missed the prior posts in this series, here are the links:

Oli Hille on SocialMedia

Phil Tocivia onFacebook

Melissa Foster onTwitter

 

The Complete Idiot's Guide to LinkedIn Marketing, By Jason Baudendistel

The Complete Idiot's Guide to LinkedIn Marketing, By Jason Baudendistel


Twitter for Authors: Part III on Social Media

Melissa Foster, Bestselling Author of  COME BACK TO ME

Melissa Foster, Bestselling Author of COME BACK TO ME

Welcome to the third in a four-part series on social media, bringing four authors sharing their expertise and knowledge about Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Today, the award-winning author, Melissa Foster, joins us to discuss how authors can effectively utilize Twitter. Significantly, I met Melissa through social media. Her three novels, “Megan’s Way,” “Chasing Amanda,” and “Come Back to Me,” are international bestsellers. She’s been published in Indie Chicks, an anthology, and is currently collaborating in the film production of “Megan’s Way.”

Melissa is a builder of community, and a strong one at that. If you search #WLCAuthor on Twitter, you’ll see what I mean! She’s the founder of the Women’s Nest, a social and support community for women, and the World Literary Cafe (formerly WoMen’s Literary Cafe), a cross-promotional site for authors, reviewers, bloggers, and readers. Join me now in learning more about how this remarkable writer approaches social media and life!

 

Silverberry: What makes Twitter different from other social media?

 

Melissa: I see Twitter as a global meeting place, a place to establish relationships with the widest market possible. The unique avenue that Twitter offers is the ability to be yourself in a very quippy sort of way. It challenges users to really think about the message they want to convey, and to make sure each message is powerful. I love it.

Silverberry: Why is Twitter an important part of a writer’s marketing strategy?

Melissa: Marketing is about exposure. As an author, we need to be ever-present. Twitter allows us to touch many readers 24/7, as well as reaching out to other literary professionals and build a network.

Silverberry: Do you emphasize Twitter more than other forms of social media? If so, why?

Melissa: I emphasize Twitter and Facebook for social media because those are your largest audiences. I’ve met so many warm and witty people through both, that social media has become a part of my life that I look forward to all day long.

Silverberry: What should writers try to accomplish with Twitter?

Melissa: Life is about building relationships. Twitter is no different.

Silverberry: How do you approach building followers? Do you look for people in your genre, or do you cast a wider net?

Melissa: I use Twitter for so much more than marketing books. I use it to touch people’s lives. I am a bit of a positive-preacher and happy-thought invoker. I approach followers in three ways; people that I have something in common with (children, location, hobbies, craft), people that need a pick-me-up (those that seem like they can use a happy thought more often than others), and those that offer insight that I find valuable. I guess you’d say that I cast a wide net.

Silverberry: Do you follow everyone back? What are the pros and cons?

Melissa: I don’t follow everyone back. I don’t follow people who curse a lot, or those who prefer to show off their bodies. I don’t follow people who have nothing interesting, friendly, or valuable to say, and I don’t follow people who demean others. I like to surround myself with positivity and information, and if someone is negative or mean to others, that would bring me down. A definite con.

Silverberry: What do you see as effective and ineffective tweets?

Melissa: Effective tweets send an honest message about something–anything. Ineffective tweets? That’s a funny question because it would depend on the context/content. I guess those people who only auto tweet would be ineffective.

Silverberry: Do you link your social media accounts? If not, why?

Melissa: No, never. I love to chat, so why would I minimize the opportunity to meet and talk to followers?

Silverberry: What should authors avoid doing on Twitter?

Melissa: “BUY MY BOOK” tweet tweet, lol.

Silverberry: What got you started as an author?!

Melissa: Oh my…got me started as in why do I write, or got me started as in marketing? I’m going with the first option:-) We have six kids, and when my second oldest was a year or so old, I had an overwhelming urge to write a specific story. I picked up a pad and pen, and never looked back. I had to wait over 10 years before I could write full time, so the passion festered and grew until our lives allowed for my writing, and voila. Here I am.

Silverberry: Tell us about your books and who are they written for!

Melissa: I write in several different genres. “Megan’s Way” is a literary fiction, “Chasing Amanda” is suspense, and “Come Back to Me” is contemporary fiction. My current work in progress is a psychological thriller/suspense. I write for anyone who likes emotional stories that are tied to real life. Men, women, young adult–if they seek stories that will cause them to be introspective, then they would probably like my books.

Silverberry: You’re one of the most active authors I know. What’s ahead for Melissa Foster?!

Melissa: Yikes! I hope more books, the movie of “Megan’s Way,” and enjoyment of building the World Literary Cafe community. I really enjoy helping others learn to bring their books to readers, and I hope to be able to do more of that.

Silverberry: Thanks so much for taking the time to share with us today! I’ll be looking forward to “Megan’s Way,” the movie, and to your next book!

Melissa’s Links:

Melissa’s books on —->Amazon

Melissa’s Website: http://www.MelissaFoster.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Melissa-Foster/240064542695303

Twitter: @Melissa_Foster

Melissa’s social network for women: http://www.TheWomensNest.com

Facebook Melissa Foster : http://www.facebook.com/MelissaFosterBooks (profile)

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3023973.Melissa_Foster

 

If anyone missed Parts I and II of this series, here are the links:

 

Social Media for Authors: Part I

Facebook For Authors: Part II on Social Media

 

COME BACK TO ME by Melissa Foster

COME BACK TO ME by Melissa Foster

CHASING AMANDA by Melissa Foster

CHASING AMANDA by Melissa Foster

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MEGAN'S WAY by Melissa Foster

MEGAN'S WAY by Melissa Foster


Facebook For Authors: Part II on Social Media

Phil Tocivia, Author of "Nice Knowing You"

Phil Tocivia, Author of "Nice Knowing You"

Welcome to the second in a four-part series on social media. How can authors build a loyal following? Are their ways to effectively use social media to promote and market books? Three authors will stop by over the next weeks to share their expertise and knowledge. Today, Phil Torcivia will join us to discuss how authors can effectively utilize Facebook. Next week, bestselling author Melissa Foster will discuss Twitter. Finally, Jason Baudendistel will discuss LinkedIn.

Significantly, Melissa Foster, who I met on Facebook, introduced me to Phil. Phil’s books are a collection of humorous essays about his experiences dating, and he has also written a weight-loss book, The 10/60 Diet: How to lose 10% of your body weight in 60 days. Without further ado, on to the interview!

Silverberry: What makes Facebook different from other social media?

Phil: The amount of time people spend there and the fact that it’s more intimate—involving mostly friends and family.

Silverberry: Why is Facebook an important part of a writer’s marketing strategy?

Phil: We need to reach people where people are spending time. It’s by no means easy to hold their attention and show on their walls consistently, but it’s crucial. Once you connect with fans you can keep them engaged by posting regularly and announcing upcoming sales, releases, and appearances. You can even solicit fans for suggestions. I had a group of my fans proofread one of my books, mentioned them in the book, and sent them signed copies. They did a great job.

Silverberry: Do you emphasize Facebook more than other forms of social media? If so, why?

Phil: Yes, because I believe that’s the place my audience—women 25-60—spends most of their time.

Silverberry: What should writers try to accomplish with Facebook?

Phil: Set up your page, have a professional profile picture and a well-designed landing tab for new visitors. It’s also a great place to ask fans to sign up to your newsletter. Then, post regularly (multiple times a day) and vary your posts between links, pictures, videos, and excerpts. You don’t want to be too sales-y. It’s important to respond to posts and show appreciation whether the feedback is good or not.

Silverberry: You have over 32,000 people who have Liked your page. What has helped you gain so many followers?!

Phil: Mostly time. I’ve been posting there for years and growing gradually. I’ve also run some Facebook ad campaigns targeting people who read/follow authors and comedians like me. I also mention the Facebook page within my books, in emails, and everywhere possible.

Silverberry: What specific ways do you use your Author Page?

Phil: Mostly to entertain, engage, and announce upcoming releases. It’s a struggle to stay visible with the Facebook fans (show on their walls consistently). The most successful pages do this by posting quotes, horoscopes, and funny pictures. They’re not easy to compete with, but I try.

Silverberry: You have a number of pages on your author page: Wall, Twitter, Book Preview, Questions, Goodreads. Why are these important, and how can authors make use of that capacity on Facebook?

Phil: Oh, Tabs. Yes. It depends on the author but you definitely want to have links to Twitter and Goodreads. If you have the budget, you can hire a programmer to set up a tab to sell your book within Facebook. Fans tend to prefer to stay within Facebook and not be linked outside. Tabs are a great place to host contests. I’ve done a few which have helped grow the fan base.

Silverberry: Do you use your personal Facebook account for marketing? If so, is your approach different there?

Phil: Not so much. I will mention my books there and try to get friends to follow my writing over on the “Such a Nice Guy” page.

Silverberry: What are the most effective posts, and what are some Facebook no’s no’s?

Phil: Facebook basically grades every post you make. A share is the most valuable thing that can happen to a post. Next is a comment, followed by a like, and finally a click. Facebook won’t share the algorithm, but I’d bet if a click is worth one point, a like is worth four, a comment eight, and a share twenty points. No-Nos include nudity (anything that would be flagged) and I’d be careful with plagiarism. It’s always nice to give credit. If someone is mean or posting spam on your wall, remove it and ban them.

Silverberry: What got you started as an author?

Phil: I began documenting my dating experiences after I was divorced in 2003 and moved from Philadelphia to San Diego in 2004. I posted them on my Facebook page, then created a fan page and a blog, and finally gathered the stories into my books. Comedy isn’t easy, but I truly love nothing more than making someone laugh or smile.

Silverberry: Tell us about your books and who are they written for!

Phil: I’ve released five books about relationships with the sixth coming out next month. They’re short essays–perfect for potty reading–about dating, lifestyles, and current events. I also released a Kindle Single about low-carb dieting, which is selling well (The 10/60 Diet).

Silverberry: What are you working on now?

Phil: My sixth book in the Nice Guy series is called Nice Knowing You and it’s currently being edited. Once I review the edits and clean things up, it will be released. I expect it to be available in a month or so. I’ve started my weekly webcast called “The Nice Guy Show” where I’m going to have various guests join me to discuss and laugh about life and love. I’ll spend some time building up that show and putting together a seventh book.

Silverberry: Phil, thanks so much for joining us and sharing your insights! Best wishes on your continued success! Links to Phil’s website and books below. If any readers missed part one in this series, here’s the link: Social Media for Authors.

Links to Phil’s website, books, and social media:

Website: http://www.torcivia.com

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/philtorcivia

Facebook Page: http://Facebook.com/SuchaNiceGuy

Twitter: http://Twitter.com/PhilTorcivia

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/ptorcivia

"Nice Knowing You" by Phil Tocivia

"Nice Knowing You" by Phil Tocivia


Howard Hopkins – In Memoriam

Howard Hopkins, Author

Howard Hopkins, Author

 

In December, I posted an excerpt from Howard Hopkins’ children’s novel, “The Willow Witch.” Sadly, Howard passed away recently. He was a talented and prolific author. He penned westerns under the pen name Lance Howard, and horror novels under his own name; including The Chloe Files series for adults; and The Nightmare Club series for children, age eight up. He also wrote a number of classic pulp and adventure characters for anthologies and novels–including The Green Hornet, The Avenger, The Spider, Sherlock Holmes, and The Lone Ranger. He edited for Moonstone Books.

 

Howard joined a group of authors on Teaser Train, a weekly blog tour featuring novel excerpts. Those of us on the Teaser Train are honoring Howard’s life by honoring his work: This year, we’re committed to reading something Howard wrote, and posting a review. I invite all of my followers to join us.

 

There are links at the bottom of this post to Howard’s website and all of his books. Below is the excerpt from his children’s horror novel, “The Nightmare Club #3: The Willow Witch”:

Allie May Carpenter knew she had seen a witch flying across the face of the moon three nights ago after she and the Nightmare Club solved the case of the dragon boy’s ghost.

She’d only caught a glimpse from the corner of her eye, but she had seen the witch, cape fluttering out, black as night, headdress billowing, whisking on a broomstick through the frosty November sky.

That’s how she came to be at the wooden bridge on the old road leading out of New Salem, Maine, heading towards the creepy New Salem Cemetery. She was sure the witch had flown in this direction.

The night carried a brisk chill and the full moon glowed like a big orange pumpkin in a sky speckled with diamond-chip stars. She shivered beneath her New York Yankees windbreaker and her ponytail, sticking out of the back of her Yankees baseball cap, bobbed as she pedaled across the rickety bridge. She remembered this bridge only too well. Not too many weeks ago, on Halloween, the ghost of the Headless Paperboy had haunted it, kidnapping unsuspecting kids and taking their heads because he wanted revenge on the school bully, the Gibb. The Gibb was lucky to be alive, she thought, because it seemed every ghost in New Salem was out to get him and that didn’t surprise her. The Gibb dressed like a 1950s’ reject in a leather jacket and had greasy, slicked-back hair in a “duck tail” style. He was always tormenting some poor kid and had been responsible for the Headless Paperboy losing his head in the first place, and for the dragon boy getting smooshed by a train.

Allie wouldn’t be surprised if the Gibb had somehow awakened the New Salem Cemetery Witch, too.

Allie May Carpenter liked to be called by her nickname, “Alliecat”, by her friends. Well, if she actually had any friends, except for those misfit kids in the Nightmare Club. She wasn’t even totally sure they were her friends, because they wouldn’t let her join their ghost hunting group and constantly called her a pest.

She supposed she was kind of a pest, but she wanted in, and sooner or later they were going to let her join. She had already convinced one of the members, Moose Turcot, because he was sweet on her, to accept her as a member, but the rest would be a tougher sell. Still, she bet if she found out something about this witch that would do it. They’d have to let her into the group, then!

Unless of course she got herself kidnapped again and this time nobody was around to save her.

Dead leaves swirled up around her bike tires as she pedaled towards the cemetery. Woods rose up to either side of her, dark and eerie, and the stench of rotted leaves filled the frosty night air. Moonlight cut across the old road in jagged patches, like orangey skeletons lying on the ground. Her front tire thumped in a pothole and she nearly flipped over the handlebars, grabbing them hard at the last minute to stop herself from ending up in the road.

Sheesh!” she muttered, sweat trickling from her brow, despite the chill in the air. She couldn’t help it. She felt a little scared now that she was actually out on the road leading to the cemetery. Alone.

A sound came from the forest, a screech of some sort, probably an owl. A rustling noise followed the screech, like an animal dashing through the brush. She shivered. This road sure was creepy at night. Maybe this hadn’t been such a sweet idea after all.

No, she had to go through with it and prove to those guys she was worthy enough to join their group. A woman had to work twice as hard as a man in this world, after all, at least that was what she had heard, and they were all a bunch of male chauvinist pigs! But she would show the Nightmare Club she was just as good as any of them, maybe even better.

That’s when something black flew across the face of the full moon.

 

 

List of Howard’s books:

 

Amazon

 

Howard’s Website

The Willow Witch

The Willow Witch

 

 

 


All Aboard the Teaser Train!

Teaser Train

Teaser Train

All Aboard! The Supersonic Teaser Train is leaving the station! But you can catch it, and fill your Amazon Kindle with great reads, today, February 2nd through tomorrow, February 3rd. Lots of genres to choose from, including children’s literarature, scifi, romance, mystery, and thriller. This is a Buy 3, get one free sale, and you can get up to three free books! “Wyndano’s Cloak” is in the sale, too! Climb aboard for a fabulous ride, courtesy of our friends at the Women’s Literary Cafe!

 

 

 

 


Social Media for Authors: Part I

Oli Hille, Author of  "Creating the Perfect Lifestyle"

Oli Hille, Author of "Creating the Perfect Lifestyle"

Welcome to a four-part series on social media. Four authors will stop by each week to share their expertise and knowledge. Today, Oli Hille will join us to discuss social media in general. Then, Phil Torcivia will focus on Facebook. Next, Melissa Foster will discuss Twitter. Finally, Jason Baudendistel will discuss LinkedIn. Significantly, I met all of these folks directly or indirectly through social media sites.

I got the idea of doing this series on social media after Oli asked me if I wanted to read and review his book, Social Media for Income, Influence and Impact”. The book is a gem, and I knew I had to interview him. He’s an international bestselling author. His first book, “Creating the Perfect Lifestyle,” was an Amazon #1 Bestseller within two weeks of its release in November 2011. His other Amazon Bestsellers are: “Internet Marketing – for Income, Influence, and Impact” and “Trading for Profit.” He’s also a science fiction writer, and is in discussions with a top Hollywood director on the screenplay of his science fiction novel “The Simulan Game,” due out in mid 2012. Join me in welcoming Oli Hille, and on to the interview!

What led you to social media?

I realized quite early that Social Media allowed me to do something that has never been possible in the history of the world until now:

-Connect with like-minded people in my specific niche, quickly and easily. And then interact with them.

What is social media, and why should authors do it?

Social Media is any internet platform that allows you to connect with people in your specific area of interest or expertise (i.e. your niche). By far the most important are Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

What have you gotten from social media?

For a start I have made wonderful new friends. This is not surprising because I am connecting with people who have the same interests and passions as me. But also I have a network of people who are connected to tens of thousands of other people who also share those interests and passions. Obviously as an author this means I have a very large potential audience for my books.

Why are Facebook, Twitter and YouTube so important?

Simply because that is where the people are! It is the old 80:20 rule. 80% of the people are on the top 20% Social Media sites. Except that it is really a 95% – 5% split. Facebook is the most important, especially for an author because it is so easy to communicate directly with your readers and potential readers. Although a number of authors have had excellent success communicating via Twitter.

You advocate that the largest portion of time be spent utilizing Facebook. Why?

It is much easier for people to personally connect with you on Facebook. They see your Facebook profile, your photos, your book covers, your “Likes” etc. It is also much easier to see people responding to your posts.

Do you see the various social media working synergistically?

Yes this is a big part of both of my books “Social Media for Income, Influence and Impact” and “Internet Marketing for Income, Influence and Impact”. You need to syndicate your content to all of the main Social Media platforms. For example your blog posts need to automatically go to Twitter and Facebook. And if you have a video as part of your blog it needs to be on YouTube. Also for authors, Amazon allow you to link your blog to your Amazon author page which is a great opportunity to engage your readers there.

How can fiction authors utilize social media to connect with potential customers in their genre?

That is a very pertinent question because my Science Fiction novel “The Simulan Game” is coming out this year. This is what I recommend and plan to do:

1.Have a website where people can sign up for the launch – I have a very simple one page website for this already www.TheSimulanGame.com

2.Set up a Facebook “Like” page specifically for your book.

3.Set up a Twitter account especially for your book.

4. Join Facebook groups in your genre.

5. Join the wonderful “Amazon Kindle Publishing Group” www.Facebook.com/groups/kindleauthors on Facebook, where all authors are mutually encouraged and mutually helped.

6.Set up a YouTube channel for your book and create at least one video.

7.Send out excerpts of your book (e.g. Chapter 1) on all the Social Media sites – i.e. link the URL back to your website where people can read the first chapter.

What are some social media do’s and don’ts?

Don’t use Social Media to sell. Social media is about starting conversations, helping other people and connecting socially. Once you have a good connection, and trust, then and only then talk about your book (or other product and service).

The more people you help and advise and be friendly to on Social Media, the bigger your impact will be.

Tell us about your book, “Social Media for Income, Influence and Impact,” and what authors and businesses will find there.

I desperately wish I had a book like this when I started out with Social Media. The information in the book represents thousands of hours of research as well as hundreds of hours using the Social Media sites.

I used the information and knowledge contained in this book to launch my first book “Creating the Perfect Lifestyle” which became an Amazon #1 Bestseller within two weeks of being launched. That success would not have been possible without the information in the book.

I have over 20,000 Twitter Followers – in my niche: www.Twitter.com/lifestyle_book

I also have over 3,000 “Likes” on my website www.LifestyleBook.com

My major blog posts routinely get over 300 “Likes” and “Shares”

I have had thousands of views of my YouTube videos.

In the book I give people my blueprint for being successful using Social Media – it’s as simple as that!

You’re a big believer in doing what you love and are passionate about. Tell us about that!

Life is too short to be spending time doing anything else! My books on Social Media and Internet Marketing are about using these tools to earn an income following your passions, NOT finding a way to make a few quick dollars. That way is usually unsuccessful and soul-destroying. If you do what you love it never feels like work and you can’t wait to be doing it! It is the only sensible way to make a living!

Tell us about your other books!

I currently have seven books on Amazon. You can see them all at a glance here:

www dot Amazon dot com/author/1 (please note the cool URL!)

I thoroughly recommend people purchase my #1 Bestseller “Creating the Perfect Lifestyle”. It took me seven years to research and write, is 266 pages long and currently has 42 Amazon “5 star” reviews. It talks in huge detail about designing a life centered around what you are passionate about doing. The reviewers say it is a life-changing bargain at $8.97, but please make up your own mind.

Oli, thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your insights!

Links:

Oli’s Website: www.LifestyleBook.com

Oli’s books on Amazon: www.Amazon.com/dp/B0060O1LLM

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/lifestylebook

Twitter: www.Twitter.com/lifestyle_book

 

 

Creating the Perfect Lifestyle

Creating the Perfect Lifestyle