I'm not new to writing and the publishing world anymore. And I've learned quite a bit over the last five years. Mostly, the publishing world is not unlike any other kind of business or performance type endeavors. That is there is no shortage of great writers, just as there is no shortage of great artists, great athletes, great actors, and great musicians. It's a very competitive field, as are all other fields.
But there are two things about the publishing world that stand out to me. And they are kind of opposites. One is that writers really don't compete against each other. In fact, they often have the attitude to help their fellow writers, not just through the process of writing, but in the pursuit of publication. For example, the website Absolute Write has been phenomenal in its direct approach to aid writers in their quest for both representation and publication. I've used that website a lot, and I can't say enough how helpful they have been to me. There are other websites, too, and bloggers that help out other writers. It's a very selfless world of people who care about other writers.
But now the opposite side of the coin. That selfless inclination to help fellow writers only goes so far. Once a writer has his or her work published, that's as far as that help goes. After that, as I've found, a writer is on his or her own. And for an unknown writer like me, it's a very lonely place to be. I know no one in the media. Zero. I have no connections. I have no means to publicize or promote my work. I'm a school teacher, and I can't even promote my books to my students, because they are under 18, and Killer of Killers, which I would compare to an R rated movie, is not for minors. The Vase, which I would consider to be a PG rated story would be okay for minors to read, but even so, it's really a book for adults. It isn't a book that could be classified as an MG or YA book.
And when it comes to asking fellow authors to help in the promotion of your book? Forget it. Fellow writers are good for advice, and even assistance in the form of beta readers, but they won't help promote your book. It isn't because of jealousy or even competitiveness. It's because they are busy trying to promote their own books. That is their priority, and that's understandable, but it's still a hard pill to swallow when you are lost in the void of no publicity for your own work.
Such is the case. It's still not impossible. There are several authors who have managed it. And quite successfully, too. They worked hard, but who doesn't. Just have to keep at it, I guess.
Friday, January 31, 2014
Thursday, January 30, 2014
Writing Slowed for Promotional Efforts
As I've been focused the past week or so on promotional efforts for both Killer of KIllers and The Vase, my time spent writing has been reduced. Even though I'm at the revising stage for Killer Eyes, I just haven't spent as much time doing that as I used to do for both KOK and The Vase. There is solace however, in two things. One--Killer Eyes, and even a fourth novel, John Dunn, do have the first drafts finished. And two--I am making progress with Killer Eyes in the revision stage--just slow progress.
Mostly, for Killer Eyes, it's making sure the 1st person POV is consistent. I'm applying all that into Killer Eyes now, just as I did for KOK. I envision someday, both KOK and Killer Eyes being published together as one book. Or at least in one combined and bound together book, even if, say KOK is "Book One" and then in the same bound book Killer Eyes follows as "Book Two."
And that's because Killer Eyes is not just a sequel, it's really the continuing story of KOK. It's what happens immediately after the events of KOK, much like the events in the three LOTR books, or movies, as they are now.
As for a third Killer book? I've talked about it. It hasn't been written, though. What with these promotional efforts, that might be a while. And for what? My promotional efforts have hardly produced anything. Maybe that radio station, the one who agreed to receive a book, might make something happen. We'll see.
Mostly, for Killer Eyes, it's making sure the 1st person POV is consistent. I'm applying all that into Killer Eyes now, just as I did for KOK. I envision someday, both KOK and Killer Eyes being published together as one book. Or at least in one combined and bound together book, even if, say KOK is "Book One" and then in the same bound book Killer Eyes follows as "Book Two."
And that's because Killer Eyes is not just a sequel, it's really the continuing story of KOK. It's what happens immediately after the events of KOK, much like the events in the three LOTR books, or movies, as they are now.
As for a third Killer book? I've talked about it. It hasn't been written, though. What with these promotional efforts, that might be a while. And for what? My promotional efforts have hardly produced anything. Maybe that radio station, the one who agreed to receive a book, might make something happen. We'll see.
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Ten Per Cent Response Rate
Well, I would guess I emailed about twenty reviewers, offering a free book, requesting an honest review, and only one responded, and it was a negative. I emailed about a dozen radio stations, offering a free book for a shout out to their listeners, (if they liked the book,) and two responded, one positive, one negative.
So, yeah, that's about a ten per cent response rate, but I would think it sounds about right. I remember emailing agents and publishers, and it was about the same. Sometimes, not even as high as that. But maybe the one positive response will get the ball rolling, so to speak. Only time will tell.
The review requests were for both of my books, Killer of Killers and The Vase, but the radio stations were just for The Vase. That's because of the nature of the book. For Killer of Killers, I should be contacting martial arts studios. I don't think there's any shortage of those. Got to get on it.
So, yeah, that's about a ten per cent response rate, but I would think it sounds about right. I remember emailing agents and publishers, and it was about the same. Sometimes, not even as high as that. But maybe the one positive response will get the ball rolling, so to speak. Only time will tell.
The review requests were for both of my books, Killer of Killers and The Vase, but the radio stations were just for The Vase. That's because of the nature of the book. For Killer of Killers, I should be contacting martial arts studios. I don't think there's any shortage of those. Got to get on it.
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Promotional Efforts
The Vase, my second novel, is not a religious book, but it does have religious content, features some religious people, and even gears toward the supernatural, (although that last one can be up to the reader's interpretation.) So I thought I'd contact some religious radio stations to see if any of their radio show hosts might be interested in receiving a free copy of the book. I added that if they liked it to let their listeners know about it, which I think would be a great promotional move.
And why wouldn't it? I tried a religious newspaper, but they didn't seem interested, judging by their lack of response. So the last couple days I've been contacting radio stations, and one has already replied with an interest in reading the book. Since it's only been a couple days, I'm hoping more will respond, too. But with even one radio station plugging the book, that might be the best thing I could hope for. Can't wait to see how it pans out. I'll keep you posted.
Monday, January 27, 2014
Promotions and Reviews-Not Happening
I've been trying to get people to review my books, and I found a site that lists reviewers, but most of them want money. That is not going to happen. I won't pay for a review. The only list of reviewers I found that lists reviewers who don't review for money, it turns out that they all have such a huge backlog of books to review it's utterly hopeless. Sounds about right.
Okay, since getting a review seems near impossible, how about just resorting to simple promotions. Well, that will take money, too. Advertising is a major source of income for newspapers, magazines, and other social media. I don't have that kind of money. Since The Vase has religious content in it, maybe some of these religious newspapers or radio shows might be a good way to go. But they don't answer my emails. Well, I didn't offer to pay them, so why should they? They want money, too. Imagine that.
Okay, since getting a review seems near impossible, how about just resorting to simple promotions. Well, that will take money, too. Advertising is a major source of income for newspapers, magazines, and other social media. I don't have that kind of money. Since The Vase has religious content in it, maybe some of these religious newspapers or radio shows might be a good way to go. But they don't answer my emails. Well, I didn't offer to pay them, so why should they? They want money, too. Imagine that.
Friday, January 24, 2014
Best Advantage of the Big Six
As a follow up to yesterday's post about the advantages of self-publishing, I thought I'd relay the one thing that I think is the best thing the Big Six can do that POD publishers can't do, and most certainly, self-published authors can't do. And that is they get their books into bookstores. I mean chain bookstores, like Barnes and Nobles, and even stores like Walgreens, Walmart, and Costco.
And that's a huge thing. It's a big deal. After all, shoppers shop. And where do they shop? At stores. And if they are shopping for books, they shop at bookstores. Even at Costco, I've seen shoppers stop by the book section and browse, and then buy books that were there for them to browse. That's a major way of selling books. Having them in stores for buyers to buy.
Self-published authors can't do that. And POD publishers, like the ones who published my two books, can't do that, either. Because a POD book has to be paid for to be printed, and that's not how bookstores or other stores operate. Not for books, anyway. And for that reason, the Big Six, and other publishers who aren't POD publishers have an advantage. They get their books into bookstores, and buyers buy their books.
Sure there are online shoppers, but how many of those buyers know about the many online publishers who sell online, as in their own websites, or Amazon, and other online sources. There is limited exposure doing it that way. And that's what it's all about. Exposure. Without exposure, selling will always be an uphill battle. Having your book in a bookstore levels the field.
And that's a huge thing. It's a big deal. After all, shoppers shop. And where do they shop? At stores. And if they are shopping for books, they shop at bookstores. Even at Costco, I've seen shoppers stop by the book section and browse, and then buy books that were there for them to browse. That's a major way of selling books. Having them in stores for buyers to buy.
Self-published authors can't do that. And POD publishers, like the ones who published my two books, can't do that, either. Because a POD book has to be paid for to be printed, and that's not how bookstores or other stores operate. Not for books, anyway. And for that reason, the Big Six, and other publishers who aren't POD publishers have an advantage. They get their books into bookstores, and buyers buy their books.
Sure there are online shoppers, but how many of those buyers know about the many online publishers who sell online, as in their own websites, or Amazon, and other online sources. There is limited exposure doing it that way. And that's what it's all about. Exposure. Without exposure, selling will always be an uphill battle. Having your book in a bookstore levels the field.
Thursday, January 23, 2014
Self Publishing Reportedly Better
I just read an author's blog post, which contained an interview that talked about self-publishing. This author had been published by Big 6 publishers, but decided to self-publish his books, and he is making a LOT more money doing it that way.
I don't doubt for a moment that for an already established author, self-publishing is a better way to go. Publishers will take 90% of the money your book makes. As a self-published author, you'll get 70-90% of the money. And if an author is adept at editing and cover art, he really has no need for a publisher.
But authors who are not established do need publishers. Especially if they are just learning the craft. As I learned. And I wouldn't have learned if it wasn't for having a publisher. Both of my publishers, Melange Books and Penumbra Publishing, have been instrumental in the learning of writing, editing, and publishing books. I'm a much better writer now, having had both of these publishers.
Does that mean I'll want to self-publish from now on? No. Not yet. Even though I have two books published by two different publishers, that doesn't mean I'm an established author. Not until my books actually earn some big money. THEN I'll be considered an established author. And only then might I consider self-publishing. But only then. Fingers crossed that THAT will happen.
I don't doubt for a moment that for an already established author, self-publishing is a better way to go. Publishers will take 90% of the money your book makes. As a self-published author, you'll get 70-90% of the money. And if an author is adept at editing and cover art, he really has no need for a publisher.
But authors who are not established do need publishers. Especially if they are just learning the craft. As I learned. And I wouldn't have learned if it wasn't for having a publisher. Both of my publishers, Melange Books and Penumbra Publishing, have been instrumental in the learning of writing, editing, and publishing books. I'm a much better writer now, having had both of these publishers.
Does that mean I'll want to self-publish from now on? No. Not yet. Even though I have two books published by two different publishers, that doesn't mean I'm an established author. Not until my books actually earn some big money. THEN I'll be considered an established author. And only then might I consider self-publishing. But only then. Fingers crossed that THAT will happen.
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Blog Readers-Buy Books!
I wish that title to this post was true. Because if it was, then Killer of Killers and The Vase would be selling thousands of books. At least that's what my stats page indicates. Last month over 1,400 people visited this blog. And those numbers have been consistent every month for over a year. Sheesh, if even half of those visitors to the blog bought a copy of either Killer of Killers or The Vase, then those books would be getting pretty good exposure. Add to that, word of mouth, once the readers finish reading, and the ball would be rolling. More people would visit and more buyers would buy, and more readers would read the books. So if you're reading this, don't forget to click on the links to the right, and get your copy today. Then spread the word! And thanks!
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Sales Trickling In
Whatever I'm doing to promote my books, well, let's just say it isn't enough. Sales are at a trickle, and that will never do for any product in any market. It is mystifying to me how some books can be released and they are number one on the best seller's list from the get go. I suppose it has a lot to do with the publisher, and it's a very good reason to have a big six publisher as your publisher. Still, I'm glad to have a publisher at all, but because my publisher is not one of the big six, it means no reviews, no advance sales, and no listing on a best seller list.
But that doesn't mean it can't succeed. I've heard of books that weren't even published by any publisher, and still they managed to climb up the charts and even make the best seller list. Sure, sometimes it's an already established author who chose to self publish rather than be published by his/her big six publisher. They get a much higher royalty that way, as the big six publishers will get as much as 90% of the profits from their books. So for that reason I don't blame them. Still, the promotional efforts of the big six publishers do warrant that percentage of the profits. After all, 10% of something is better than 50% of next to nothing.
But there are other authors who have self published and went all-out with self promotion, and they've made it work. It was a lot of work, I know, but that's what it takes. As for my books? Let's just say I have to work a lot harder and do a better job at promoting them. I'm still hoping someone will review one of them again. I sure wish I thanked that guy who gave Killer of Killers that great review a year ago. Here's to hoping I'll get a second chance.
But that doesn't mean it can't succeed. I've heard of books that weren't even published by any publisher, and still they managed to climb up the charts and even make the best seller list. Sure, sometimes it's an already established author who chose to self publish rather than be published by his/her big six publisher. They get a much higher royalty that way, as the big six publishers will get as much as 90% of the profits from their books. So for that reason I don't blame them. Still, the promotional efforts of the big six publishers do warrant that percentage of the profits. After all, 10% of something is better than 50% of next to nothing.
But there are other authors who have self published and went all-out with self promotion, and they've made it work. It was a lot of work, I know, but that's what it takes. As for my books? Let's just say I have to work a lot harder and do a better job at promoting them. I'm still hoping someone will review one of them again. I sure wish I thanked that guy who gave Killer of Killers that great review a year ago. Here's to hoping I'll get a second chance.
Friday, January 17, 2014
Are the Nominated Movies All That Good?
Just read about how there's nine movies nominated for best picture. But I haven't seen any of them. Strange thing is, I don't really go to movies much anymore. I did when I was in my teens and early twenties. But my inclination to go see movies has been in a sharp decline since my thirties. And now, as a father of two, I really don't go much at all.
I will take my sons to see movies that interest us, and maybe that's the key reason why we don't go see movies much. There really aren't too many movies being made that interest us anymore. For instance, none of these nine nominated movies interest us at all. Nor do any of the other ones out there. They don't interest us one bit. So we don't go see them. It's as simple as that.
Maybe I'm too picky. I like movies like Jason Statham's "Transporter" movies, or Matt Dillon's "Bourne" movies. I liked the Lord of the Rings movies, too. And that's about it. But the movies out now? Especially the ones up for best picture? No interest at all. I guess I'm not too keen on social commentary movies. It seems like a lot of the movies today are of that sort. They are good for some people I guess. Just not me.
I will take my sons to see movies that interest us, and maybe that's the key reason why we don't go see movies much. There really aren't too many movies being made that interest us anymore. For instance, none of these nine nominated movies interest us at all. Nor do any of the other ones out there. They don't interest us one bit. So we don't go see them. It's as simple as that.
Maybe I'm too picky. I like movies like Jason Statham's "Transporter" movies, or Matt Dillon's "Bourne" movies. I liked the Lord of the Rings movies, too. And that's about it. But the movies out now? Especially the ones up for best picture? No interest at all. I guess I'm not too keen on social commentary movies. It seems like a lot of the movies today are of that sort. They are good for some people I guess. Just not me.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Buy Killer of Killers and The Vase
So yeah, that's a pretty obvious title to this post. Nothing like shameless promotion. But that's the whole purpose of the blog. Can't get more direct than that. I can't advertise anywhere else without spending a lot of money. And that's the problem. If I spend, say, a hundred dollars for an add in a newspaper or a magazine, who's to say I'll earn that hundred bucks back? The best way to sell books is in a bookstore, I'd say, but the bookstores won't stock POD books.
I haven't found that private bookstore owner yet. I tried the other day. But wouldn't you know, the owner has two bookstores, and he goes to the one that's farther away from where I am. Of course. Doesn't mean I can't call him, or just make the trip across town. Just got to find the time to do it. I should have done it weeks ago. Still it's on my agenda. In the meantime, since my stats page indicates that hundreds of people actually visit this blog every month, I would hope that some of these blog readers will buy a copy of one of my books. And if you have, then I thank you. I hope you enjoyed the book. I would bet that you did.
I haven't found that private bookstore owner yet. I tried the other day. But wouldn't you know, the owner has two bookstores, and he goes to the one that's farther away from where I am. Of course. Doesn't mean I can't call him, or just make the trip across town. Just got to find the time to do it. I should have done it weeks ago. Still it's on my agenda. In the meantime, since my stats page indicates that hundreds of people actually visit this blog every month, I would hope that some of these blog readers will buy a copy of one of my books. And if you have, then I thank you. I hope you enjoyed the book. I would bet that you did.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Killer Eyes vs. The Killers Guild
As I've written about in earlier posts, the sequel to Killer of Killers is called Killer Eyes. I was planning a third in the series to be called The Killers Guild. But now I'm seriously considering changing Killer Eyes to The Killers Guild. Why? Because in Killer Eyes, I introduce The Killers Guild. In fact, the Killers Guild is a major part of that story. So much so, that naming it The Killers Guild would be appropriate. Now Killer Eyes is also an appropriate name for it, but when it comes to The Killers Guild, I'm thinking that the second sequel will have a lot more reason to be called The Killers Guild than the third sequel, which I have only partially planned. I don't really have a plot in mind at this point, and I've only partially considered what a 'killers guild' would be doing in that one.
But since a Killers Guild is perhaps the main antagonistic presence in the second sequel, which is already written, btw, that's why I'm considering just naming that one The Killers Guild.
But you've got to read Killer of Killers first, anyway, because the second book is really a continuation to that story. It's more like "Part Two" of Killer of Killers more than a sequel. It takes up where Killer of Killers leaves off. Although both stories are complete unto themselves, or stand alone stories. It would be better to read the one after the other though. That would be for optimal enjoyment, that is. So stop wasting time. Buy your copy of Killer of Killers today, so you'll be ready for Killer Eyes. Or The Killers Guild. I better make up my mind. Well, it will be one or the other.
But since a Killers Guild is perhaps the main antagonistic presence in the second sequel, which is already written, btw, that's why I'm considering just naming that one The Killers Guild.
But you've got to read Killer of Killers first, anyway, because the second book is really a continuation to that story. It's more like "Part Two" of Killer of Killers more than a sequel. It takes up where Killer of Killers leaves off. Although both stories are complete unto themselves, or stand alone stories. It would be better to read the one after the other though. That would be for optimal enjoyment, that is. So stop wasting time. Buy your copy of Killer of Killers today, so you'll be ready for Killer Eyes. Or The Killers Guild. I better make up my mind. Well, it will be one or the other.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Another Cop Shooting
I had posted recently about a cop shooting someone, and how the media and other watch groups seem to be automatically ganging up on the officer. Meaning that the officer should NOT have shot the person, and it was a bad cop the whole way.
I went on to say that I was glad that I wasn't a cop, and I was glad that I had talked my son out of being a cop. It's got to be one of the toughest jobs to be had, and to me, at least, the negatives make it a job that just isn't worth it.
Because once again in the news, there's a story about another cop shooting, and once again, the media is making it sound like it was a bad cop, a tragic shooting, and all the cop's fault. Now, as I said the last time, I wasn't there, and I have no clue as to how it all came down. Maybe it was a bad cop. Maybe both times, it was a bad cop, and it was all the cop's fault. And if you go by the news report, that's exactly how it was in both cases.
But that's the news report. To me, at least, there's another side to the story. The cop's side, and both times, the media gives no hint to that side of the story. It's all about how the cop was quick to take someone's life, as if the cop was actually looking forward to killing someone. Actually hoping to kill someone. As if cops become cops so that they could kill someone. Really, that's just how the news reports make it sound.
I know there are people that want to kill people. Murderers are in no short supply, and that's one of the reasons I wrote Killer of Killers. But I just refuse to believe that murderers are wearing police uniforms. I just don't buy it. Policemen are themselves often targeted by murderers, and it's a situation that is not enviable by any stretch of the imagination. That, plus the fact that society and the media seems quick to take the side of the law-breakers, makes me firm in the belief that being a cop is one of the most difficult jobs out there. Period.
I went on to say that I was glad that I wasn't a cop, and I was glad that I had talked my son out of being a cop. It's got to be one of the toughest jobs to be had, and to me, at least, the negatives make it a job that just isn't worth it.
Because once again in the news, there's a story about another cop shooting, and once again, the media is making it sound like it was a bad cop, a tragic shooting, and all the cop's fault. Now, as I said the last time, I wasn't there, and I have no clue as to how it all came down. Maybe it was a bad cop. Maybe both times, it was a bad cop, and it was all the cop's fault. And if you go by the news report, that's exactly how it was in both cases.
But that's the news report. To me, at least, there's another side to the story. The cop's side, and both times, the media gives no hint to that side of the story. It's all about how the cop was quick to take someone's life, as if the cop was actually looking forward to killing someone. Actually hoping to kill someone. As if cops become cops so that they could kill someone. Really, that's just how the news reports make it sound.
I know there are people that want to kill people. Murderers are in no short supply, and that's one of the reasons I wrote Killer of Killers. But I just refuse to believe that murderers are wearing police uniforms. I just don't buy it. Policemen are themselves often targeted by murderers, and it's a situation that is not enviable by any stretch of the imagination. That, plus the fact that society and the media seems quick to take the side of the law-breakers, makes me firm in the belief that being a cop is one of the most difficult jobs out there. Period.
Monday, January 13, 2014
Stories With Sad Endings--Not For Me
If authors want their stories to sound like real life, they may decide to give their stories a sad ending. Sometimes a very sad ending. After all, real life does have sad endings. Sometimes very sad endings. Because bad things happen. Even to people or characters we have grown to love. Life isn't fair, and it happens all the time. I've even noted that it often seems that the worst things happen to the best people. And the scummy people, well, they seem to be doing just fine.
But when it comes to writing, or stories, there is one thing I firmly believe. I don't want to read a book, or watch a show that makes me feel lousy. I don't want to invest my time only to come out of that experience feeling like crap! And some stories have done just that. And I resent it. If an author wants to mimic real life, and chooses to do that by making a story end unhappily, then I don't want to have anything to do with that story.
If it's a true story, and that's just the way it HAS to end, then a GOOD author will write it in a way that the person reading the story, or watching the show will take something good from the ending. Even a sad ending. Sure, tell the story accurately, but the end, even a sad one, does not HAVE to make you feel like crap. If a writer couldn't figure out how to make a sad ending positive SOMEHOW, then, to me, that writer dropped the ball.
Because who wants to feel like crap? I would think no one. We don't spend money on books or on movies to feel like crap. I'm pretty sure about that. Sure some bad things happen in all of my books. But the stories don't END in a bad way. That is to say they don't have sad endings. The readers won't feel like crap at the end. Like in real life bad turns happen. Unfortunate events occur. Like in real life. But I choose to make my stories end in good ways. Ways that make the readers feel good, not only about the characters in the story, but about themselves as well.
And that is the challenge, I think, that authors should meet. Make your readers feel good about themselves, the story, and about life in general. After all, we're all a part of this world. We all have a life to live. So why not live it feeling good? I think we should. And I think I'm right.
But when it comes to writing, or stories, there is one thing I firmly believe. I don't want to read a book, or watch a show that makes me feel lousy. I don't want to invest my time only to come out of that experience feeling like crap! And some stories have done just that. And I resent it. If an author wants to mimic real life, and chooses to do that by making a story end unhappily, then I don't want to have anything to do with that story.
If it's a true story, and that's just the way it HAS to end, then a GOOD author will write it in a way that the person reading the story, or watching the show will take something good from the ending. Even a sad ending. Sure, tell the story accurately, but the end, even a sad one, does not HAVE to make you feel like crap. If a writer couldn't figure out how to make a sad ending positive SOMEHOW, then, to me, that writer dropped the ball.
Because who wants to feel like crap? I would think no one. We don't spend money on books or on movies to feel like crap. I'm pretty sure about that. Sure some bad things happen in all of my books. But the stories don't END in a bad way. That is to say they don't have sad endings. The readers won't feel like crap at the end. Like in real life bad turns happen. Unfortunate events occur. Like in real life. But I choose to make my stories end in good ways. Ways that make the readers feel good, not only about the characters in the story, but about themselves as well.
And that is the challenge, I think, that authors should meet. Make your readers feel good about themselves, the story, and about life in general. After all, we're all a part of this world. We all have a life to live. So why not live it feeling good? I think we should. And I think I'm right.
Friday, January 10, 2014
What About Actors for The Vase?
Since I've posted about actors who would be right for a movie version of Killer of Killers, what about actors who would be good for The Vase? Well, I haven't really thought about that yet. I've focused so much more on KOK for movie possibilities. Still, The Vase would be a good movie, too. As for what actors would be right for it? That's something I would have to consider. But none of the actors I've talked about for KOK would be right for The Vase. They are totally different movies. Different stories, different locations, different languages even.
It doesn't mean I couldn't find some actors who would be good for it, though. It's just that, like I said, I haven't given it much thought. There are plenty of talented actors, just as with anything, and they are out there. It will give me a good thing to post about some time. So I'll start thinking about it, and I'll look forward to finding them and revealing them on the blog. Stay tuned.
It doesn't mean I couldn't find some actors who would be good for it, though. It's just that, like I said, I haven't given it much thought. There are plenty of talented actors, just as with anything, and they are out there. It will give me a good thing to post about some time. So I'll start thinking about it, and I'll look forward to finding them and revealing them on the blog. Stay tuned.
Thursday, January 9, 2014
Dustin Clare and Amber Heard Seem to Draw Interest
 |
| Dustin Clare |
 |
| Amber Heard |
On my stats page, it reveals that my blog posts about Dustin Clare and Amber Heard seem to draw a lot of hits. Not surprising since both are up and coming movie stars with their careers still ahead of them. Dustin Clare of course had his biggest starring role in the STARZ mini series Spartacus, and Amber Heard, really, hasn't had her big role yet. She's been in a few movies, but really hasn't enjoyed a big part in a major movie or TV show.
But since Amber Heard hasn't had her breakout role yet, wouldn't it be a dream come true if her breakout role came in the movie rendition of Killer of Killers? After all, Samantha Jones is the female lead in that story. And there is at least one sequel soon to come out, and there probably will be a third.
Then there is Dustin Clare who I would choose to play the story's protagonist, Trent Smith, because he, also, would be a perfect choice. He's about the right height, the right weight, the right build, and I think he even has green eyes, as does Trent Smith. And he's already established himself as a great fighter, playing the part of a champion gladiator in Spartacus. So I think he's perfect for the role of Trent Smith. The only thing not perfect is his hair, which is a little too blond. But it's nothing a little hair dye couldn't fix.
But first and foremost, I've got to sell a lot of copies of the book. I doubt any movie makers would bother to make a movie of a book that hardly anyone has heard of. So get the word out. Tell people about Killer of Killers. Help out. With a director like, say, Corey Yuen, and Dustin Clare and Amber Heard in the lead roles, it would be a great movie. But without word of mouth it won't happen. I've only got one mouth. I need a lot more to get the word going. Thanks, in advance.
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Book Trailer?
Promotion, marketing, whatever you want to call it, advertising, is very important for any product, even books. Movies have 'trailers' which are shown on TV commercials, or at the theaters, and on websites on computers, and many authors have made 'trailers' for their books, too.
I think I will look into this. I can probably make a better 'trailer' for my books than someone else who never even read them, so I will make that a goal for the new year. But where will I show these trailers? Well, certainly on this blog, and I suppose posting them on YouTube will be another option. I don't know anyone else who might post them on their blogs, so maybe it will be a waste of time, because who will know about them besides the people who read this blog? I would think anyone who's read this blog already knows about my books. The purpose of trailers is to get the word out to people who DON'T know about them.
But that's what I'll do. If nothing else, it will be fun like any of the things I do. Stay tuned.
I think I will look into this. I can probably make a better 'trailer' for my books than someone else who never even read them, so I will make that a goal for the new year. But where will I show these trailers? Well, certainly on this blog, and I suppose posting them on YouTube will be another option. I don't know anyone else who might post them on their blogs, so maybe it will be a waste of time, because who will know about them besides the people who read this blog? I would think anyone who's read this blog already knows about my books. The purpose of trailers is to get the word out to people who DON'T know about them.
But that's what I'll do. If nothing else, it will be fun like any of the things I do. Stay tuned.
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Not Worth It to be a Cop
I just read in the news that a cop killed an 18 year old boy who was wielding a screwdriver. The family is shocked and understandably critical. They say the boy was already subdued by two officers when a third officer came up and shot him. There was no word from the cops at this point, other than they are still investigating it.
So who knows what the truth is? So far it's only a one-sided story. But I have heard of murders committed by whackos with screwdrivers. Screwdrivers can kill. And it was the family themselves who called the cops in the first place. I cannot make any other comments, since I wasn't there, and I don't know the full story.
But I'll say this: I'm glad I'm not a cop. I actually studied to be a cop when I first started college. After getting a job at the local police department, I quickly changed my mind. There just isn't any "cop" blood in me. I didn't get along with anyone in that police department. Hold on. I'm not saying cops are bad people or anything like that. I figure being a cop is the second most difficult job in the world. (Middle School teachers being first!)
But seriously, when my son told me he was considering being a cop, I told him, "No way!"
Why did I tell him that? For the same reason I told him he shouldn't join the army. No way should he put his life on the line for people who don't appreciate it. And really, it seems that most people don't appreciate it. The story today...and several in the past...indicate that when this kind of thing happens, (someone being killed by cops,) then the world is up in arms against them, calling them all kinds of names. Horrible names. I just can't comment. Because like I said, I wasn't there, and I haven't been there for any of the other similar incidents, either.
I remember when some Oakland cops got killed by some deranged shooter a few years ago, there were people in Oakland who actually paraded in the streets CELEBRATING. To me, that was just despicable. And it's for that reason I'm glad I never became a cop, and would never want my sons to be cops.
Ditto with the military. I remember some horrible comments about the NFL player Pat Tillman who joined the military and was killed in Afghanistan. People were saying crap like it served him right for wanting to "play" armyman. Can you believe that? So no way would I ever risk my life, (or see my sons risk their lives,) for people like that. It's not worth it.
So yeah. I'm glad I'm not a cop. And I'm glad my son is no longer considering it. And the last thing I'll say is that I am one person who DOES appreciate what cops do, and what people in the military do. Make no mistake, I know there's always a bad apple in every barrel. That goes without saying, and it applies to every profession. You don't condemn an entire profession, though, for those few bad apples. Bottom line, anyone who risks their lives for the greater society, like cops and soldiers do, deserves props. But I'm just one person. Sure there's more like me who appreciate them. But the people who don't...there's enough of them to make me shake my head. That's all.
So who knows what the truth is? So far it's only a one-sided story. But I have heard of murders committed by whackos with screwdrivers. Screwdrivers can kill. And it was the family themselves who called the cops in the first place. I cannot make any other comments, since I wasn't there, and I don't know the full story.
But I'll say this: I'm glad I'm not a cop. I actually studied to be a cop when I first started college. After getting a job at the local police department, I quickly changed my mind. There just isn't any "cop" blood in me. I didn't get along with anyone in that police department. Hold on. I'm not saying cops are bad people or anything like that. I figure being a cop is the second most difficult job in the world. (Middle School teachers being first!)
But seriously, when my son told me he was considering being a cop, I told him, "No way!"
Why did I tell him that? For the same reason I told him he shouldn't join the army. No way should he put his life on the line for people who don't appreciate it. And really, it seems that most people don't appreciate it. The story today...and several in the past...indicate that when this kind of thing happens, (someone being killed by cops,) then the world is up in arms against them, calling them all kinds of names. Horrible names. I just can't comment. Because like I said, I wasn't there, and I haven't been there for any of the other similar incidents, either.
I remember when some Oakland cops got killed by some deranged shooter a few years ago, there were people in Oakland who actually paraded in the streets CELEBRATING. To me, that was just despicable. And it's for that reason I'm glad I never became a cop, and would never want my sons to be cops.
Ditto with the military. I remember some horrible comments about the NFL player Pat Tillman who joined the military and was killed in Afghanistan. People were saying crap like it served him right for wanting to "play" armyman. Can you believe that? So no way would I ever risk my life, (or see my sons risk their lives,) for people like that. It's not worth it.
So yeah. I'm glad I'm not a cop. And I'm glad my son is no longer considering it. And the last thing I'll say is that I am one person who DOES appreciate what cops do, and what people in the military do. Make no mistake, I know there's always a bad apple in every barrel. That goes without saying, and it applies to every profession. You don't condemn an entire profession, though, for those few bad apples. Bottom line, anyone who risks their lives for the greater society, like cops and soldiers do, deserves props. But I'm just one person. Sure there's more like me who appreciate them. But the people who don't...there's enough of them to make me shake my head. That's all.
Monday, January 6, 2014
Corporate Bookstores vs Privately Owned Bookstores
Tried to get my books into Barnes and Nobles yesterday, but I found out that if your books are POD published, like both of mine are, then B&N won't put them on their shelves. That's because B&N only takes books that aren't paid for yet. As in the publisher sends them books directly, and when a buyer buys them, that's when the publisher gets paid. POD books are only printed after they've been paid for, thus the Print On Demand classification.
So what to do then? Visit privately owned bookstores, of course. I happen to know of some, but the owners don't usually work on Sunday, so I'll try to get a hold of them this week. Hopefully, they won't mind buying a couple or three of each of my published books, and stocking them on their shelves, and then, once they sell them, they order three or four more. And so on.
I believe that the covers alone might stir some interest and prompt some sales. At least for Killer of Killers. And the subject matter of The Vase should spark some interest and prompt some sales, too. I mean a lot of people are interested in Israel and the happenings over there. So I think once the owner is convinced to stock the books, things will get rolling for both books.
But the catch is, will the owners stock them? I'll find out as soon as I talk to my local privately owned bookstore owner. But I can't do that until Tuesday. So Tuesday will be a big day for me, and I'll post on Wednesday just how that went.
So what to do then? Visit privately owned bookstores, of course. I happen to know of some, but the owners don't usually work on Sunday, so I'll try to get a hold of them this week. Hopefully, they won't mind buying a couple or three of each of my published books, and stocking them on their shelves, and then, once they sell them, they order three or four more. And so on.
I believe that the covers alone might stir some interest and prompt some sales. At least for Killer of Killers. And the subject matter of The Vase should spark some interest and prompt some sales, too. I mean a lot of people are interested in Israel and the happenings over there. So I think once the owner is convinced to stock the books, things will get rolling for both books.
But the catch is, will the owners stock them? I'll find out as soon as I talk to my local privately owned bookstore owner. But I can't do that until Tuesday. So Tuesday will be a big day for me, and I'll post on Wednesday just how that went.
Friday, January 3, 2014
Hit the Bookstores Today
After checking with some booksellers, I found that you have to call their corporate office to get them to stock your book. Once I get Killer of Killers and The Vase on bookshelves, I'm confident browsers will be interested in checking them out. One reason, for Killer of Killers, at least, is the cover. I know for a fact that covers can spark interest in people who want to buy and read a book. And for anyone who enjoys martial arts stories, KOK is one book that they will enjoy. There really aren't too many out there in the first place. And even though I haven't read any, I'm sure KOK will hold up.
I wish there were writing contests for martial arts books. Just like there seems to be contests for other types of books. If there were, then I would think KOK would be good enough to place somewhere in the finalists for that category. Maybe I should be looking for contests as well as for bookstores. I think it's a good idea, actually. Time to get started then.
I wish there were writing contests for martial arts books. Just like there seems to be contests for other types of books. If there were, then I would think KOK would be good enough to place somewhere in the finalists for that category. Maybe I should be looking for contests as well as for bookstores. I think it's a good idea, actually. Time to get started then.
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Readers of the Blog
So the readers of this blog are listed on my stats page as being from all over the world. Sure, the majority are here in America, but a good number are in Russia, the UK, Germany, France, and other various European countries, as well as several countries in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and you name it. Beats me how these people even know about this blog. Since no one really comments, I'll probably never know. But the stats say that on some days as many as several HUNDRED people have tuned in to the blog.
I guess they are blog-hoppers. There are sites that enable people to do that. I wish they were book readers, too. If those kind of numbers translated into buyers of the books that I promote on this blog, that would be great. But they don't. Not that I can figure anyway. If they did, I wouldn't be so bent on promoting the books.
Put it this way. If you're reading this blog, and you like books, BUY A COPY of Killer of Killers or The Vase. I would appreciate it. But again, that's if you like books. That's if you like a great story. That's if you have some money. LOL. I figure if you've got the money to buy a computer, no matter what country you're in, then you have enough money to buy a book. There's no doubting that. So take advantage of this opportunity. All you have to do is click on the images to the right of this post. Once you do that, you can choose a print book or an eBook. And thanks.
I guess they are blog-hoppers. There are sites that enable people to do that. I wish they were book readers, too. If those kind of numbers translated into buyers of the books that I promote on this blog, that would be great. But they don't. Not that I can figure anyway. If they did, I wouldn't be so bent on promoting the books.
Put it this way. If you're reading this blog, and you like books, BUY A COPY of Killer of Killers or The Vase. I would appreciate it. But again, that's if you like books. That's if you like a great story. That's if you have some money. LOL. I figure if you've got the money to buy a computer, no matter what country you're in, then you have enough money to buy a book. There's no doubting that. So take advantage of this opportunity. All you have to do is click on the images to the right of this post. Once you do that, you can choose a print book or an eBook. And thanks.
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Happy New Year
And may your 2014 be a great year. My 2013 was a great year. My second book, The Vase, got published. My son had a great year playing football for his high school. It was his senior year, and he was selected the M/O Offensive Player of the Year for his league, not to mention the Most Valuable Player for his team. He was also listed as an Honorable Mention in the All-Mercury News Football section for the year of 2013.
So, yeah, 2013 was a good year indeed. I hope 2014 will be even better. I expect to get the sequel to Killer of Killers published this year, and the only thing that might make it better is if my sales perk up. But that depends on the people who read this blog. Buy a copy! You'll like the story, the plot, the characters, the action, the suspense. Let me know what you think! And thanks in advance.
So, yeah, 2013 was a good year indeed. I hope 2014 will be even better. I expect to get the sequel to Killer of Killers published this year, and the only thing that might make it better is if my sales perk up. But that depends on the people who read this blog. Buy a copy! You'll like the story, the plot, the characters, the action, the suspense. Let me know what you think! And thanks in advance.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)