Nadine Laman
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posted at 11/14/09 - 10:08 PM
Best wishes, DrumKidd. Please do let me know how things go.
posted at 11/14/09 - 08:16 PM
Well, it's been somewhere between three weeks to a month since i first asked for help, and you haven't stopped since. Thanks for everything! Without all of the blog posts (many of which i have copied into a word document for personal reference), i would probably be half-way finished with a sequel by now without anyone knowing I had written anything simply because I didn't know where to start. I'll keep you posted if someone wants more than a synopsis, and hopefully sometime in the near future I'll have an author page on this. Thanks for everything!
posted at 11/09/09 - 12:20 AM
Just messing around...I've added the frame around my YouTube. See?
posted at 11/08/09 - 11:22 PM
DK,
In the community of writers who are beyond what they can grab for themselves, you will find many helpful people. I challenge you to lend a hand to others too. I'm not the only 'expert' so be sure to seek many sources of information. I'll try to post a few for you in the coming days.

The word count is of the ms, not the synopsis. The synopsis should be nearly a full page. You're correct, no one cares what the synopsis word count is.
posted at 11/08/09 - 09:48 PM
By the way, is the word count mentioned in those blogs the word count of the manuscript or is one the manuscript and the other the synopsis? Or does the synopsis word count even matter, since it's preferably 1 page or less?
posted at 11/08/09 - 09:40 PM
Not even gonna lie...I just copied and pasted your last three blog posts into a word document and saved them on my computer so I don't lose them. (That's the kind of info that would make it into "Acknowledgements" at the end of a book!"
posted at 11/06/09 - 02:11 PM
Oh cool! I figured out how to RSS Feed my blog to my filedby page! Look at that!
posted at 10/30/09 - 01:45 PM
Check out my November newsletter on my website. Link on the top left corner of this page.
posted at 10/26/09 - 11:52 PM
Something as simple as double spacing between sentences can scream "amateur" to people in the industry. Some won't care. Others who are busy will be put off by it.
posted at 10/26/09 - 10:10 PM
Yeah, I saw it thanks! That whole thing about the sentence spacing is really weird. I'm trying it right now, and...well...it's weird. I also just read the newest post and it's really helpful as well.
posted at 10/25/09 - 03:49 PM
No worries, you've read it now. Did you see my Friday blog post -- wrote it for you.
posted at 10/25/09 - 03:36 PM
...ok, I didn't read the agentquery.com page until AFTER posting about the genre (dumb idea that was) but after reading it I would say it's definitely fantasy. It doesn't have some of the key fantasy elements, but all of its own personal key elements are fantasy-related, such as swords, different worlds, interesting names (haha, those are fun) and other such things.
posted at 10/24/09 - 09:28 PM
This manuscript in particular is "fantasy." Not fantasy, "fantasy," and trust me there's a difference.

It's not really die hard fantasy as in like magic 'n prophecies 'n orcs (i hate that word so much) 'n things like that; however, it is a medieval society, technically, the world it takes place in is completely made up, and some of the believable aspects of it are strongly exaggerated to give it that "different flair." I suppose it's hanging precariously somewhere between fantasy and action/adventure. Confusing enough for you?
posted at 10/24/09 - 11:54 AM
My books went on amazon.com today.
posted at 10/23/09 - 07:33 AM
Here you go, drumKid: http://nadinelaman.blogspot.com/2009/10/q.html
posted at 10/21/09 - 10:20 PM
WoW! Nothing like an easy question right off. Well...okay...let me gather my thoughts on this one. What genre do you write? This is the list I like. http://agentquery.com/genre_descriptions.aspx I ask because I know more about some things [in this industry] than other things.

Ivy ask a similar question in July. You can scroll down this wall and look at that - it might be helpful. Also if you can tolerate my rambling, there is some info on my blog from time to time. Look back to posts around the time of Ivy's question. The link is on the right of this page under 'Author Links.'

Probably the single most important thing you can do is make sure your manuscript is competitive. I'll write a blog post for you on how to do that for this Friday's post -- okay? Is your manuscript finished?

Ask more questions. I'm glad to answer what I can and point you to trusted resources for the rest. Let's continue this until you get the answers you need -- deal? Thanks for stopping by.
posted at 10/21/09 - 09:08 PM
I was at the Southern Festival of Books in Nashville a few days ago, where I talked to someone about this website and what to do about starting the path towards publication. I was told to start here, posting something on your wall, so here goes...Do you have any general info/advice that I could start with?
posted at 10/21/09 - 10:23 AM
Oh look at what Ella did to my guest blog at Clock Monkey!
http://theclockmonkey2.blogspot.com/2009/10/author-guest-post-nadine-laman.html
posted at 10/07/09 - 02:19 PM
Hey ck out my October Newsletter. Big announcement in there. Don't come crying to me if you don't know what Cactus Rain is. http://nadinelamanbooks.com/newsletter.html
posted at 10/06/09 - 02:22 PM
Thanks, BLee. I took it from the one my web designer made for my website...going for 'the look'
posted at 10/06/09 - 11:37 AM
Your new banner looks great! It really sets your site apart. - Bob
posted at 09/21/09 - 08:46 PM
Whoo-hoo, Susan posted a review for Kathryn's Beach! Yeah!
posted at 09/18/09 - 08:14 PM
Oh my goodness, Glynis in Crypus has blogged Kathryn's Beach! http://www.glynissmy.com/2009/09/my-travel-companion-book-review.html
posted at 09/17/09 - 06:57 PM
I joined the group: Group under the Business Tab for soon to be Authors to learn about traditional and non-traditional ways to market and promote their manuscripts.
posted at 09/07/09 - 03:03 PM
Thanks Chica. I'm trying to get done the things I set aside during the awesomeness blog party.
posted at 09/05/09 - 06:16 AM
Hey, chica, this new banner looks gorgeous!
posted at 09/04/09 - 07:02 PM
Whoo-hoo! I added the mast by myself. Koolio
posted at 09/03/09 - 02:46 PM
Hi Kara, Thanks for the mentions. Today is the last day to win autographed books at the blog party. I'll come join the group after the party, thanks for the invite. I didn't do this as a marketing project. I consider marketing campaigns to be planed in advanced and to employ basic marketing principles. This was just me being me. However, as of this morning, we have partied with people from 55 countries. Most of them have been quiet observers, known only by the stats they creats, so sad that they stand on the sidelines. Here are the countries our guests hail from: Argentina, Australia, Barbados, Belgium, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Canary Island, Chech Republic, Chile, Cote d’lvoire, Croatia, Cyprus, Egypt, England, Finland, France, Germany, Ghana, Greece, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Jordan, Kenya, Macedonia, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Pakistan, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Republic of Maldives, Romania, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Serbia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, The Netherlands, The United States (USA), Turkey, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, Uruguay. My books have always been better accepted abroad. I sell 5:1 out of country. I think it is that Americans worry too much about self-published stigmas. IMO.
posted at 09/02/09 - 10:32 AM
Nadine,
I started a Group under the Business Tab for soon to be Authors to learn about traditional and non-traditional ways to market and promote their manuscripts. As a successful self-published Author it would be great if you would put in your thoughts on this subject! PS....you blog party is such a killer marketing idea....I have shared that with friends of mine on Facebook and they think you are brilliant! Going to blog about it later today too!
posted at 08/21/09 - 02:32 AM
Today we are reaching the halfway point of a four week long blog party. As best as I can tell it is the FIRST of its kind in the blog world. If you know different, let me know. We bounced onto two pages for the comment section, I didn't know blogger did that with a total of 209 comments posted yesterday. Not for the whole party, for yesterday. If you haven't come by to win free autographed books from international authors, best be getting over to the BLOG party! http://nadinelaman.blogspot.com/
posted at 08/07/09 - 11:46 AM
This book give away PARTY on my blog is snowballing, go look.
posted at 08/07/09 - 08:47 AM
My 99th blog post today contains books that will be given away next week. Go Look! http://nadinelaman.blogspot.com/2009/08/99.html
posted at 08/06/09 - 03:15 PM
Whoo-hoo! Reviews are getting posted on my books' pages. Go look! AND my August newsletter went out today. If you didn't get it, email me!
posted at 08/05/09 - 09:51 PM
Check this out: http://willingtoseeless.blogspot.com/2009/08/now-real-tss.html THANK YOU, IVY!
posted at 08/03/09 - 03:09 PM
Oops! Going to be a bit late with my newsletter. If you just can't wait to read it, email me and I'll send the pdf before we get it posted on my website. My email address is on my website contact page. Cheers!
posted at 07/20/09 - 01:09 AM
Wow! Thank you. Check my blog for Monday 20 July. And your email.
posted at 07/19/09 - 04:33 PM
Hi Nadine,
I left you a little something on my blog!
xo,
Ivy
posted at 07/18/09 - 03:36 PM
Ivy,
Email me, please. The address is on the contact page of my website.
posted at 07/18/09 - 02:30 AM
Nadine,
I entered the contest on How to...since most of my friends aren't interested in reading, especially not in English, let alone to join filedby...it's a lonely road for me here!
Thank you very much! I've translated quite some stuff, unofficialy of course, because without a degree I can't claim it mine yet. And I really enjoy it, hope to make it a career one day!
Ivy
posted at 07/17/09 - 04:26 PM
I've replied to your comments on First Draft. Did you see there are two new ways to win a copy of Kathryn's Beach? Look up to the bio and look at the post two messages below this one.
And...I'd be honored for you to translate for me.
xo Nadine
posted at 07/17/09 - 06:24 AM
Have read the post on First Draft. Commented.Still under thrill.
posted at 07/14/09 - 09:46 PM
Wow! Look what's going on in Malaysia! Yep, another way to win a free copy of Kathryn's Beach. http://www.howtotellagreatstory.com/contest.html
posted at 07/14/09 - 02:20 PM
Ivy, I'm thankful for any amount of time you can spend with me.
posted at 07/14/09 - 11:19 AM
I hope so too! I'm following constantly, only I just don't have more time than to drop a cursory glance, let alone comment- I can't make it short!
Can't wait for Friday!
posted at 07/14/09 - 10:58 AM
Hi Ivy,
I hope 'viewed' translates into read. I'm answering more of your question on my blog for the rest of this week. Please follow the entries. I think you'll be surprised by Friday (my Friday, might be your Saturday.) Feel free to comment.
NL
posted at 07/14/09 - 06:37 AM
Hi Nadine! You're among the most viewed authors! Congratulations!
posted at 07/13/09 - 09:31 PM
A very BIG announcement is coming out this week on my blog as I continue to answer Ivy's question. Go to the link, First Draft. Each post is scheduled for 0800 GMT or midnight Arizona time (we are currently the same as Pacific Time since we don't change to Day Light Savings Time.) or GMT - 8 hrs.
posted at 07/13/09 - 06:50 PM
Hi Cath,

I'm glad you liked SS. I'm sorry I had you wound up that I was going to kill Kathryn, but you bought it so easily that I couldn't resist keeping it going. You usually aren't so easy to dupe. Glad I surprised you with a couple of things in there. That wasn't all that easy. You are usually on to my story line very early. Now I'll admit to you that there is probably going to be a fourth book, working title is, Beyond Beaches.
posted at 07/13/09 - 07:24 AM
I finished SS and I really liked it. So glad you didn't kill off K. Mind you, you tugged on just about every heart string there was. Well done you. It was a beautifully crafted piece.
posted at 07/12/09 - 02:25 PM
Just read an article titled, "Cheney Linked to Government Secret." Seems that I wasn't too far off in Storm Surge, doesn't it?
posted at 07/12/09 - 02:17 PM
Thanks. It doesn't take much to write vulgar. Unless the character truly needs to talk like a drunken sailor, no reason for it - just laziness. Same with sex scenes. This is seen in movies all the time when the story isn't strong; they stop the action and drop in a skin scene, so they can use it in the movie trailer. Neither of which is actually using the writing devices correctly.

Wait until Kathryn has her long awaited romance, that scene will be tender, passionate, and will deliver everything the reader has hope for her. You can beta read that ms for me.

Regardless how famous the writer is, if readers think it is too much, it IS too much. His editor should have caught that.
posted at 07/12/09 - 11:20 AM
I recently finished a stephen king book and it was so full of f-bombs and the like- as if the book wouldn't be as good wthout it- anyway- your books have all the same emotional charge but without the foul language and I appreciated it ....a lot!
posted at 07/10/09 - 10:41 AM
Hi DeDe,

Oops! Sorry about the sleep thing. Carrie pinned me to the wall about the fourth book on the blog comments for 6 July. The working title of book fours is "Beyond Beaches," so I guess it is a trilogy plus one. It is about 10 years post Storm Surge, and I have a feeling Kathryn will get the romance everyone is wanting.

Mark? The clues were all there. Dual personas was the big one. But honestly, what straight guy do you know who brings flowers as often as Mark and paints a girl's toe nails? The final clue was when Kathryn said they acted like a married couple. I added Mark and Jake as my 'kiss off' to that hate group in Topeka, remember them?

I'm glad you liked Storm Surge. Sounds like you thought it was worth the wait. Let me know what your mom thinks!

NL
posted at 07/10/09 - 09:55 AM
Hey you- I was up past midnight the other night and it is all your fault! I could not put that book down!!! OMG! it was great! I loved it- I think I read it within a week- totally unusual for me! The best of the three in my opinion!
So- I do have a couple questions tho- when did Mark become gay? I always thought he and Kathryn would get together and must have missed the details about his relationship with Jake- and how come she didnt get a love story ending? I was so hoping she would- anyway- still liked the book- can't wait to send it to my mom- she's read your other two already so- we'll see what she thinks on this one. Good job my friend- good job!
De
posted at 07/07/09 - 12:29 PM
Ah hello, Kevin,
I agree, the books aren't exactly what a biker dude would normally pick up off the bookstore shelf. Aren't you glad they don't have a chick-lit cover! Whew!

There is something haunting about Kathryn, isn't there? I sense it too. Thank you for reading all three books.

Did you see my blog? You won a ball cap for the first review on Filedby. It is kind of girly cap. I'll put it in tomorrow's mail.
posted at 07/07/09 - 12:00 PM
I have read and thoroughly enjoyed all three volumes, which mildly surprised me, because they are not the genre I normally enjoy. Perhaps some growth has occurred?
Regardless, I found the characters to be believable, possible, and easy to identify with.
Additionally, I had a hard time putting the book down, I wanted to know what happened next. The characters took on a life of their own, and at times they were as easy to dislike as they were to like. Kudos to the author, and keep them coming.
posted at 07/06/09 - 05:09 PM
Time reference: GMT at 8 am is equal to the previous midnight in Arizona USA. (-8 hours)
posted at 07/06/09 - 05:04 PM
Guys and Dolls (movie reference),

How about making this interesting? Between now and MN Pacific Time, July 31, '09, the person who gets the most people to join my reader list wins a signed copy of my first book, Kathryn's Beach - totally FREE!

What you have to do, 1) sign up as a reader on my page; 2) get your friends to sign up as a reader on my page; 3) they must leave a note on my wall saying you brought them here.

The person who has the most readers say they brought them to join my filedby page, gets a FREE signed copy of Kathryn's Beach, FREE postage anywhere in the world.

Blog it, send it to your whole email list that you send jokes to, go out and pay people to join, I don't care how you get them to join (as long as it is legal), but they must say on my wall that you brought them here, and you must be willing to give me your mailing address (in an email, NOT on the wall, please.)

Let the contest begin!
posted at 07/06/09 - 04:38 PM
Ah, how sweet. My youngest son composed and recorded the music. Lucky me!
posted at 07/06/09 - 04:36 PM
Hy, Nadine,
First to say that I admire your courage for self-publication. And no way, I don’t think of those who self-publish as losers in comparison to those who get the big publishers, just the opposite; isn’t letting your staff do the entire job taking the easier way? Sure, they can get you more publicity, more money in the bottom line, but I somehow feel that it is not (or shouldn’t be) the only purpose of writing, unless you truly want to be nothing but commercial; but that is a totally different kettle of fish, and another topic for that matter.
I really appreciate your effort on explaining these things to me. It is great to hear an “insider’s” voice. That is the other side of the medal you don’t get to see. I’m not rushing anywhere, I have plenty of time to prepare.
And about your video: it’s so…Zen, so relaxing, and very emotional. I played it while my son was sitting in my lap, and he sat quietly all the time! That is something that happens once in a blue moon!
xo,
Ivy
posted at 07/06/09 - 04:14 PM
True, look at the 'watercolor effect' to the beach in the last photo (no, not the one of me) in the video. That is all natural, "raw". No manipulation. From LA, head south toward San Diego, get off at Los Alametos (right after the Long Beach exit), but turn right toward the beach. Cross PCH, follow the little beach community road it turns into, follow the curve until you see the ocean. Walk Main Street and ck out the Sea Shell Shop. (look on my links page). Their Shell Christmas ornaments are perfect gifts to bring back from a trip to California. And you HAVE to buy a beach shirt (like the Beach Boys) at the SB shop. Lots of great sea food places to eat (and drink), but you have to have one meal on the pier at Ruby's. (Nope, I'm not on the SB payroll, just love the place.) And now you know why there is a pause in the photos without text on the video -- so you can enjoy the photos!
posted at 07/06/09 - 01:40 PM
Awesome! I'll try to make it a priority. I know what you mean about the cameras. There's something raw and organic about "regular photos" that, I think, are often lost in manipulated ones. Cool stuff.

I'll be sure to check out your site. I love movie trivia.
posted at 07/06/09 - 01:24 PM
Hi Mr. K.
The photos in the video and all but one on my website were taken at Seal Beach, California. The sun set pics are looking toward the Long Beach marina (where the Queen Mary is berthed). Long Beach is in LA County and Seal Beach is in Orange County, if that helps give a reference point. There is information about Seal Beach on the links page and trivia page on my website. It is where Richard wrote Jonathan Livingston Seagull and where the Red Sea was parted for the 1923 movie, The Ten Commandments. Other film trivia is on my website.

My kids and I took the photos. Some were taken with 35mm Minoltas and others with $5.00 disposable Kodak cameras. Frankly, I'm just as happy with a disposable camera when taking photos on the beach. I don't manipulate the shutter speed or use filters, so it doesn't matter what camera I use. If it is a good shot, any camera with decent speed film should be able to capture it. Plus, it is nice to have a camera that fits in one's pocket.

I hope you get a chance to visit Seal Beach. You must go out on the pier and eat at Ruby's. Let me know if you do.
posted at 07/06/09 - 01:05 PM
Ivy,
Most writers think about publishing in terms of the major publishing houses. There are, of course, imprints from the major houses, small presses, university presses, and the newer model of vanity press merged with POD technology. Though not technically correct to call these printing companies, "POD' companies, that is the common industry slang. In a way it is a complement to the inventor of Print On Demand technology.

There is the 'snub' that writers who use POD are losers who couldn't make it in the traditional segment of the industry. That maybe true in part, but also, a realistic writer knows when they have a niche product that is not right for the big publishers. And for those who do speaking engagements and sell their books at the back of the room (of the conference) or as a 'supplement' to a product that is their real business, they are not seeking bookstore placement.

Finally, there are those, like me, who self-publish for a variety of reasons. This is NOT something that one wakes up one morning and just does. In essence, you have to learn everything about producing a book from paper weight to what is bleed on cover art. Everything has to be subcontracted or done yourself. Including the legal work to create a company to purchasing ISBNs. And that doesn't even touch on all the tasks beyond the actual production of the book, such as marketing and distribution. Of all the ways to get works published, self-publishing is the most complex.

Keep in mind, my answers are general. It would take days to completely answer your questions to the extent necessary to become published. Knowledge is Power. Learn all you can and approach publication with a business brain, not a writer's brain. Best wishes with your projects.
posted at 07/06/09 - 12:57 PM
Those pictures are gorgeous. Did you take them? I'll be out in LA next month. I love California!
posted at 07/05/09 - 12:59 PM
Hey do you think my YouTube is cool? The photos are from scenes in the books. So are the photos on my website.
posted at 07/03/09 - 02:41 PM
Reader comments are coming in on the recently published third book, Storm Surge. They are posted on the review page of my website. Go take a peek. http://nadinelamanbooks.com/reviews.html
posted at 07/03/09 - 09:05 AM
The agent and query relationship is very subjective. Yes they can be in a horrible mood and hate everything that comes in that day. But just as likely, they can be in a terrific mood and love everything. Most of the time, they are in their right mind and make very sound decisions. So far, I've had 216 rejection letters combined on my projects. It isn't pleasant, but it isn't a root canal either. Give it a shot.
posted at 07/03/09 - 09:01 AM
Ivy, it is a learning process, unless you just want to be a hobbyist. The more you know, the better results you'll have. Knowledge is power. The publishing industry is horribly dysfunctional, yet it is very successful and I think it is awesome to be part of it. It can be comical at times, but certainly don't be discouraged. No one wins gold metals at the Olympics without training and then getting in the game.
posted at 07/03/09 - 08:33 AM
Nadine,
That is pretty much the impression I got during all this reasearch I'm doing for over a month now...I've been reading all these articles, books and blogs on daily basis, receive newsletters from various pages, and the more I read, the more confused I get...and intimidated...it seems it's easier to purchase an H-bomb online than to get to the right agent...Your answer is basically what I expected to hear…I’ve been told so many times to start querying, but I’m very precautious when it comes to it. I’ve put so many hours of work into my scripts, and throwing them into wrong hands is not something I’m wild about.
I'm sorry for you being disappointed with your agent, I sincerely hope it's better now!
posted at 07/03/09 - 07:06 AM
More on your question, Ivy. (The literary agent) This is an over simplified answer, but getting published is more complicated that the general public realizes. There is information all over the internet and in writer targeted books, but it has to be sorted through, because it isn't all reliable. But one thing for sure, the general public's perception of it is mostly wrong.

Finding an agent is, in my mind, a blind date. Regardless of the agency reputation, you don't have a clue what the agent or agency is like to work with until you're under contract. It takes forever to research agents, query them, wait for a reply - if you get one at all - and then there are decisions about what makes a good contract, what rights to give up, is world rights a good idea or not, and does the agency have a relationship with the right publishers for your manuscript or not. Is an auction for the manuscript a good idea or not? If there is a pre-empt, is that good or not?

There are decisions about whether the agent is correct about pre-shopping rewrites. My agent wanted book one and two combined. Considering the whole of the trilogy, that was a very bad idea. I was horribly under impressed with my agent, but on the other hand I have a friend who loves her agent.
posted at 07/03/09 - 03:49 AM
I agree, the trick with this destiny stuff is to have the wisdom to see opportunities when they come. I'm not always that smart.
posted at 07/02/09 - 06:35 PM
Funny, BC -- cool & ice storm. Ha ha ha ha...oops, fell off my chair. Ouch.
posted at 07/02/09 - 06:33 PM
Twitter stuff: There are several twitter books. One is Twitterwit (HarperCollins) about clever twits. Another is Twitterature: The World’s Greatest Books, Now Presented in Twenty Tweets or Less. One of the Twitter developers had his blog picked (landed a book deal). As for my friend's Twitter novel, not sure how that is fairing. The format is a problem. But mainly that person has computer problems at the moment. I would like to see where it goes because I have heard the backstory info that hasn't been released.
posted at 07/02/09 - 04:26 PM
Hy girls!
I agree, it's just something that hapens..if you're lucky enough,you'll get the chance to pursue your dreams...
To bcomquest...I just checked your myspace and fell in love with Better This Way! It made me cry! Beautiful! Go for it, I wish you all the best!
posted at 07/02/09 - 04:06 PM
The twitter book is really cool too......just checked it out...thanks for sharing that...wow!
posted at 07/02/09 - 04:00 PM
Nadine...Jus read the history behind your book here on your wall...that is so cool...it seems like it is destiny playing into your life...like you were meant to write and there was no way to escape it...it would find you in some way Ice Storm and all! Reminds me of the story of my life and the pursuit to create an album and tour as a singer/songwriter...so I found myself in Nashville, working on an EP and just doing it! Cool story...thank you for sharing!
posted at 07/02/09 - 12:47 PM
During an ice storm, my reading maniac friend called with a bad case of cabin fever. She had nothing in the house to read and couldn't get out to get a 'fix.' I told her to check her email in an hour and I'd give her something to read. She had no idea I wrote - no one did. So I banged out a short story, the first chapter (basically) of Kathryn's Beach.

She emailed back, "Then what happened?"
I replied, "It is a short story, you make up the rest. Either she goes and it works or doesn't, or she stays and it works or it doesn't."
She writes back, "NO! I want to KNOW what happens."
Well sheesh, I didn't know what happened, it was a short story. What was wrong with her. Short stories are -- SHORT!
She won. I wrote an hour or two a night and sent it to her. In three weeks, I had the first draft of Kathryn's Beach written. I'm done!
Nope, not only was she printing it off and giving to people to read (un-edited) she was hounding me about what happened NEXT!
You get the picture - I'm doomed.
posted at 07/02/09 - 12:36 PM
Goodness Ivy,
Good question. That one line could take days to answer. Since I am dyslexic, I never imagined being an author. Never even occurred to me. Writing was just something I naturally did, after I finally learned to read and write. It 'officially' started with needing to fill a class in high school. I looked at the list of options and though, "Creative Writing - I can do that." I kept taking writing classes and took more at university. Still no I had no desire to be a writer or published. I was headed for nursing school. I would have liked to have been a doctor, but knew I couldn't afford it. (My senior year of nursing school I switched to social work - and I really like it.)

I don't watch television, I wrote short stories at night when the house was quiet. Still no interest in publishing. I think we were married 10 years before my husband knew I wrote.
posted at 07/02/09 - 11:55 AM
Big LOL!
Well, I'm a student, and gallons of coffee are a necessity of vital importance...though lately it doesn't work anymore...probably overload :)
The think I drink in my profile picture is some sort of a cocoa/coffee/rum concoction...sounds gross, but it was so delicious. Coffee that gives you hangover!
I wanted to ask you about your experiences in publishing, with agents, query letters etc. How did you start?
posted at 07/02/09 - 11:09 AM
Cheers! Ivy, Kathryn is the typical American government employee - long hours and lots of strong coffee. But I think she drinks the good stuff most of the time, not like in our office. That stuff can stand on its own without a cup. LOL
posted at 07/02/09 - 09:16 AM
Nadine,
Thank you very much! I just read the excerpts on your page,and they really got me craving for more. And I had to laugh about the coffee part-it's unbelievable; I'm a coffee addict, as I write this, I'm slowly sipping my afternoon Nespresso. Even one of my characters got the same addiction, a cup of coffee is always somewhere in the scene!
I raise my cup to you!
Ivy
posted at 07/01/09 - 08:47 PM
Hi Ivy,

No worries, I understand. Best wishes for a speedy and fair resolution. I'm not going anywhere, we can still chat.

xo Nadine
posted at 07/01/09 - 04:17 PM
Hey, that was a quick respond!
The problem is actually that at present I can't make any credit card purchase online. I'm in middle of divorce, and as soon it is over, I will have to change my last name, probably a lot of other things to, and that's why I'm little bit afraid to order it. I wouldn't want you to get short of the payment because of some of mine bureaucratic problems. So I thought, if it'savailable in any bookstore, to buy it in simple, old cash!
I'm sorry to disappoint you, your offer is so kind, and I promise, as soon as I'll have it all sorted out, to order all three of the Kathryn series!
Lots of love,
Ivy
posted at 07/01/09 - 01:58 PM
Wow! Hello Ivy,
In a sense, my books are available everywhere - because I mail them myself. Sometimes it is a bit slow going through customs, but they always arrive -- and I've sent them all over the world.

Tell you what, just for you, Ivy, if you buy one of my books, I'll send you as second copy of the same book FREE for your library. How's that sound? http://nadinelamanbooks.com/books.html

xo Nadine
posted at 07/01/09 - 12:23 PM
Hi Nadine,
I've read a lot about you and your books, and I would REALLY love to read them...but I'm from Croatia, and we're so in need of books written in English...the college library has a small collection of non-education books, and most of them I've already read...
I got off topic. I wanted to ask, if you have the information, are your books available in Croatia? If so, can you provide me with the names of the bookstores?
Thanks in advance, looking forward to hear from you soon !
posted at 06/30/09 - 09:24 PM
OMGosh! OMGosh...just added audio to my website. Ck the home page and meet Nadine page. I'm sure more to come...like on the excerpt pages for each book. Wow I have a great web designer. Let me know what you think...
posted at 06/29/09 - 01:19 PM
Ella,

Liked your reading on your blog. Yep, you have an accent.

xo
posted at 06/29/09 - 01:19 PM
Hi Ella,

I'm quite curious about this project too. I think the Twitter format will be a challenge. A computer issue has stalled the project. Hope it keeps going.

http://nadinelaman.blogspot.com/2009/06/twitter-novel.html

xo, Nadine
posted at 06/29/09 - 12:03 PM
A novel on Twitter? wow, I've got to see that.
xo, Ella
posted at 06/25/09 - 01:19 PM
Someone (not me) is writing a novel on twitter. https://twitter.com/SpiritGhost
posted at 06/25/09 - 12:44 PM
Want to know more about dyslexia? Here is an NFL football coach with dyslexia. http://nadinelaman.blogspot.com/2009/06/dyslexic-football-coach.html
posted at 06/23/09 - 11:09 AM
BC,

I should mention that I write in first person present tense. Please see this post. http://nadinelaman.blogspot.com/2009/06/i-cant-get-into-it-that-much.html

Nadine
posted at 06/20/09 - 11:52 AM
Hi BC,
Yeah, it is a real toss-up for me - on which to do. The characters of both have already taken up residence in my Muse. Watch my July 1 newsletter for an update. I'll post an reminder of the newsletter here and on my blog.
Thanks for the vote. Let me know what you think of the sample chapters I sent to you.
Nadine
posted at 06/19/09 - 04:53 PM
Cool....RPR all the way and thanks for the reading material!
posted at 06/19/09 - 04:26 PM
Hi BC!
I've missed you. Good question on the vote thing. I am new to blogging and didn't think to put up a poll, so the votes are in the comment section.
Here is the link: http://nadinelaman.blogspot.com/2009/06/my-horoscope-lied.html
Read forward from that point, it should help.
I'm glad you came back. Saw your note. I'll put it in the mail.
Nadine
posted at 06/19/09 - 04:10 PM
Nadine...I visited your blog but could not figure out where to go to vote on the next book topic....can you post a direct link and guide me? Thanks!
posted at 06/16/09 - 12:30 PM
Don't turn out the lights, I'm still here!
posted at 06/12/09 - 05:48 PM
If clink doesn't work, try 'clicking' -- sheesh.
posted at 06/12/09 - 05:47 PM
Whoopiee -- June newsletter

My Mid-June Newsletter is now posted on my website. http://nadinelamanbooks.com/newsletter.html
or clink the link to my website, then 'newsletter' on the navigation bar on the left side of the page. Thanks for reading.
posted at 06/10/09 - 05:02 PM
Cath, that's right, you did beta read the beginning. Well toss your first draft, I changed the ending...lots.
posted at 06/10/09 - 04:50 PM
Darn you - that is sooo unfair! I'm on the first chapter and got to admit... it's looking good, girl. Been a long time since I seen the first draft - can remember it, my comments, yours... and it's flowing sooo well. (Good job you didn't listen to me. lol)
posted at 06/10/09 - 04:43 PM
Hi C. Okay I won't tell you. But...I did have to ask Naturewalker some medical stuff because...oops, I almost told!
posted at 06/10/09 - 04:40 PM
Hi, Nad. Just got the new book and can't wait to dive in. Please, please don't tell me you've killed off you-know-who????
posted at 06/09/09 - 11:45 PM
Sounds good, Ella. Hey, I read your blog post with your first author interview. Good job. http://theclockmonkey2.blogspot.com/2009/06/todays-book-view-from-one-man-world-way.html
posted at 06/09/09 - 04:43 PM
I'll think of something and let you know! :)
posted at 06/08/09 - 07:28 PM
Ella, sorry I misspelled your name.

xo Nadine
posted at 06/07/09 - 02:50 PM
Elle, You are special -- that's true. Maybe we'll have a party here??? If we get enough people who have read the books to discuss them on the wall. You can help me figure out ways to give away prizes. I'm not very geeky and it slows me down to have to first write my posts in an email because of the dyslexia, then paste onto my wall. Maybe we can have a week long party sometime and have a give away or prize every day. Let me know if you get any ideas.
xo
posted at 06/07/09 - 01:24 PM
Your first to come here? Nice!
My friends are too lazy to read, let alone a book like yours! I'll try to get them to read it, but I can't promise you anything... I'm the only girl my age I know who like to read so many things!
I'd be more than happy to help you, should you decide to have an online party! Let me know :)
posted at 06/07/09 - 11:13 AM
Ta! Kevin! Now you can add your pic. Thanks for coming here. Can't wait to see what you think of book three, Storm Surge.
posted at 06/07/09 - 03:45 AM
Did you read about DG on my blog? I think I saw him tonight. http://nadinelaman.blogspot.com/2009/05/desert-ghost.html
posted at 06/07/09 - 03:36 AM
Hmmm, BadSanta. I've heard that before. I'm guessing Andy or Kevin. Give me a hint and see if I can guess.
posted at 06/07/09 - 02:48 AM
I am looking forward to reading the third book, as I very much enjoyed the first two.
posted at 06/07/09 - 12:42 AM
Hi Ella! Your book is my first to go to South America. Kool?

Tweeter party, eh? Oh man, I'm soooo busted. If my two tweetering friends see that, I'll never hear the end of it. Yes, if I did that, you would need to help me. You'll have to tell me how it works. I'm not on twitter, so I have zero followers.

What do you think about the reading group party mentioned below? If you like KB and a few of your friends want to read it and get together to discuss it, I'll send you a couple of party gifts. Might even be able to set up a discount code for them to purchase the book at lower than list price. Let me know on that.

Glad you came to filedby. Bet you find lots of your fav books and authors here. Keep in touch.
posted at 06/06/09 - 11:17 PM
Hi Nadine! I'm finally here! Can't wait to get your book, hope it gets here soon. Yesterday I participated in a Tweeter Party for the release of Twenty Boy Summer, a YA novel by Sarah Ockler, and you have no idea how many people there were! So if you are ever hosting an online book party (yes they work) I'd be more than happy to help you out!

xo,
Ella
posted at 06/04/09 - 05:58 PM
Shall we discuss ideas of a book party? Maybe if you're interested in hosting something for a small group of your reader friends, we could work out some ideas. Maybe even send a free copy of KB, the first book in the trilogy, to see if you like it??? It is written in first person, present tense. I call the genre: Faux Memoir. Excerpts are on my website. Click on the book cover to see the back of the book. I'm open to ideas. I was thinking...maybe hostess gifts for you to give as door prizes and even a live chat on webcam??? Anyone want to talk about this?
posted at 06/04/09 - 05:48 PM
See what you think of this. http://nadinelaman.blogspot.com/2009/06/my-horoscope-lied.html Every vote welcomed. No need to sign-in. Hey, a new reader! Hi Jitterbug.
posted at 06/03/09 - 11:38 PM
Hi BC,
Great idea. Several years ago, I read on the internet how to start a readers' group. I'll have to look to see if I kept the link. I could run an invitation in my newsletter. The next one will be out in a couple of weeks.

I've always wanted to do a live chat (on webcam) with a group of my readers. I think that would be fun. Send the hostess door prizes and such. What do you think?

I'm getting ready to start writing the next ms, go to my 6/3 blog and vote on which book you want next. I'm going to do the first scene of each story in the next two blog posts. Please check it out.

Keep in touch!

Nadine
posted at 06/03/09 - 12:27 PM
Nadine,
Your bio is amazing!
Wow...you have a very uplifting story...reading that makes me stay focused and motivated to pursue my dreams no matter what the obstacle. Thanks for sharing. We should get a book club going to go through your stories....any thoughts on how to get it going?
posted at 06/01/09 - 10:52 PM
I appreciate you joining me on this adventure. Thanks again.
posted at 06/01/09 - 10:52 PM
Wow! Thank you for joining my reader list. I looked at your pages to meet you.
 

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