Here's to a Happy and Healthy New Year - Cheers!

Merry Christmas from your GA Peach Authors!

B&N Children's Storytime - Join us: Saturday, 11/17/12 @ 11:00 a.m.

GA Peach Author Marissa Monteilh's latest, TURNABOUT IS FAIR PLAY

Please check out my latest ebook novella, TURNABOUT IS FAIR PLAY, which I started writing for the A Chapter A Month website, and recently finished. It is the story of best friends, Raven Singletary and Valerie Boss. Raven suddenly announces that she's engaged to Valerie's son, Marquis. Angry and hurt, Valerie doesn't dare take the news lying down, at least not alone anyway. She decides to flip the script by dating Raven's playboy father, Stanley. It's the ultimate in backstabbing. Is turnabout really fair play? It is dra-ma! The ending surprised even me!

TURNABOUT IS FAIR PLAY is available now for only $4.99 - please click here: Amazon.com or bn.com

And please post a review if you can - I'd really appreciate it!

Gracias,

Marissa
www.marissamonteilh.com

A Little Celebration

Hi All,

 

Gail here.  I'm celebrating my birthday this week, and while that alone is cause for celebration and the pleasurable eating of lots of red velvet cake, I want to share the blessing.  Before you call me vain, just know that in my life outside of books, I am a Wellness / Fitness Specialist, and I take the business of health very seriously.  On that note, I want to share the gift of health.  Come join me on Sunday, November 4th at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church.  I will be there, participating in the Kiss Diabetes Goodbye event, taking blood pressure readings. 

 

The event will be held in the Multi-purpose Room of the church (directly behind the main sanctuary).   The address is:
 6400 Woodrow Road
 Lithonia, GA 30038
770.696.9600

This event is a wonderful opportunity to get to know not only your b/p, but your cholesterol and Body Mass Index (bmi) numbers.  Other information, like AIDS testing and a wide range of other screenings and support activities including diet and exercise, will also be available.  Free and open to the community, this is a great chance to get to know your numbers.

 

And to say Happy Birthday to me!

 

www.newbirth.com
  

The Atlanta Journal Constitution has written a great article and obituary on our author-friend Dee Stewart - link

With a beautiful wave of her beautiful hand, she has gone home!

 

Our hearts are heavy, as well as the hearts of so many others. We awoke on the morning of 10/6/12 to news that our beloved GA Peach Author Dee Stewart, a.k.a. Miranda Parker, passed away. We knew Dee had serious health issues, but she purged on and stayed busy and showed up and helped out. We just knew she'd beat this because she convinced us of that. She'd resigned as a GA Peach last year because of her health, but she was our guest author 1 month ago in Decatur - we had no idea that was the last time we'd see her. A further reminder of how very short life is. She will always be our GA Peach! So positive and so strong, so sweet and so beautiful! WE LOVE YOU, DEE - and will miss you dearly. Life well lived - on angel's wings you are!!!! ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Heading To The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival!

Wow!  Always exciting to be a part of the first anything, but this time, the GA Peach Authors are taking their words to a place where every breath, scene, and phrase matters.  We're sitting with writers, readers, actors, and other visionaries -- August Company, indeed, and we're doing it at the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival!

 

Just in case you haven't heard, Jean Holloway, Gail McFarland, Marissa Monteilh, and Electa Rome Parks are bringing their words, skills, and imagination to the party on Saturday, October 6.  Featured in a FREE 2pm workshop, Jean will talk about "Setting," because every good story has to happen somewhere.  Gail will discuss "Dialogue," because conversation rocks a story.  Marissa will share specifics on  "Point of View," mostly because everybody has one, and fabulous stories are always based in opinion.  Electa will define characterization and how to make your characters memorable.

 

The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival will be held at the Loew's Hotel in midtown Atlanta (1065 Peachtree Street, NW), and we'd love to see you there!  For more details, visit the event webite at:  atlantablacktheatrefestival.org/.
      

 

 

 

Upping Our Game At The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival

The GA Peach Authors are counting down the days to the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival!  The news is out and we are anticipating an amazing time at the midtown Loew's Hotel this weekend.  The buzz is big, so we are also looking forward to great attendance with lots of traffic -- but you can still go to the event website to sign up for our FREE workshop on Saturday, October 6.  We're going to beak down the skills that it takes to bring drama, suspense, and romance to life, and we might even tell you how to do somebody in (only on the page, please).

This is perfect celebration and networking opportunity for actors, directors, authors, and students of all ages.  The event will offer more than 8 staged readings, 9 authors speaking, 6 workshops, 2 parties, a gala celebration, and a huge youth showcase with 26 of the most talented young people in the city of Atlanta.  We strongly suggest that you don't want to be left out -- be sure to bring lots of friends and family to enjoy the fun and excitement. 

The goal is that you have a fantastic experience at the inaugural Atlanta Black Theatre Festival and come back year after year!

 

Visit the website today:

The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival

The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival

October 4 - 7, 2012

The first Atlanta Black Theatre Festival will be held over Columbus Day weekend, at the beautiful Loew's Hotel in midtown Atlanta, and the GA Peach Authors will be there for all of the fun and excitement.  This inaugural event will feature 40 plays in four days, an authors alley, FREE workshops and displays, and a celebration of all that goes into the great traditions of black theatre.

 

This is your chance to meet the GA Peach Authors as we present our informative writers workshop and participate in the Authors Alley book signing.  We're ready to talk books, characters, dialogue, the business, and more, on Saturday, October 6th, from 11am - 6pm. 

 

Visit the event website: http://atlantablacktheatrefestival.org/ for scheduled performances and appearances.

 

Can't wait to see you there!

   

Deep Dishin' With The GA Peach Authors

Today has been an AWESOME day!  The GA Peach Author tour took us to FOR SISTERS ONLY at the Georgia World Congress Center.  Talk about crowds and sounds, they were abundant as visitors and vendors mingled.  Lots of local and national authors were in the house, which meant tons of books, and a chance to meet and greet.  All told, if you are a reader or a writer, this was the place to be. 

 

We even had the chance to meet several actors and some film and photography folks -- so you KNOW that there are lots of pictures to show.  You can check them out on our FaceBook page.  Who knows, if you were there, we may have caught you in one of our photos. 

 

Our time was spent in the McDonald's "Sip and Sign" Lounge.  Set in the middle of the venue, complete with bright red leather lounge chairs and banquettes, and small groups of bistro tables and chairs , the lounge was welcoming, and the smoothies were delicious.   So you have to know that's where we spent most of our time, dishing the drama and the plots for our upcoming work, and talking with the crowd.   It was all great fun and we're offering up special thanks to V-103 and all of their sponsors for hosting our visit, including us in their broadcasts, and interviewing us.

 

The next stop on our tour will be the inaugural Atlanta Black Theatre Festival -- October 6, 2012.

Hope to see you there!

   

Steppin' Out GA Peach Style!

Today's the day that the GA Peach Authors are stepping out for the Atlanta For Sisters Only event at the Georgia World Congress Center.  We will be taking the FSO stage in the McDonald's  V-103 "Sip and Sign Lounge" from 12-2pm.  We won't be hard to find:  we'll be the ones wearing black because its chic and talking books because we love a good read.

 

Come take a picture with us, get in on the chat, maybe find out what's happening with your favorite characters, and have a good time.  Looking forward to seeing you there!

Nobody told me!

When you write "The End" at the bottom of your manuscript, don't mistakenly think your job as an author is done. Believe me, it's just beginning. As a late-bloomer, my early retirement started a whole new career, not only in writing, but also in marketing and promotion. I quickly became tired of the travel, but to interact with my readers is an experience like no other. Each one is a blessing I would never have received if not for my novels.

Take this weekend: Early Friday morning, I fly to St. Louis for the Fall Into Books Literary Conference, Saint Louis University Busch Student Center
20 N. Grand Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63156
http://www.fallintobooks.com/
My Peach Sis, Marissa Monteilh and my business partner, T.L. James are appearing there, too. I'm excited! Then I fly home Saturday night & Sunday afternoon, I'll be with all my GA Peaches at theV-103 Sip ‘n’ Sign @ For Sisters Only from 12-2p.
GA World Congress Center
285 Andrew Young International
Atlanta, GA 30313
http://v103.cbslocal.com/fso-2012/

Well, it's time to pack (mostly books ;o) 
Hope to meet you in St. Louis or Atlanta and have a blessed weekend.

Have You Marked Your Calendar?

Just a quick reminder -- and we're only telling friends and family (you already know which one YOU are)... 

The GA Peach Authors, aka The Housewives of Literature: Atlanta are on the road again in September at FOR SISTERS ONLY.  We're gearing up and getting ready to talk books, plots, drama, and... more drama, just the way you like it!  We're hoping that you've made plans to join us on Sunday, September 16 from 12-2pm in the McDonalds Sip and Sign Lounge at the Georgia World Congress Center. 

Looking for more information?  Visit the event website:  http://v103.cbslocal.com/fso-2012/, tweet the event at #V103FSO21, or visit the GA Peach Authors on Facebook.

But most importantly, show up, say hello, and join us for a GREAT time!

 

Peaches and Passion: Always In Fashion

Okay, so you know we were at the Decatur Book Festival yesterday.  And if you've ever had the chance to chat, sip, sign, dine or FB with any of us, you know we had a good time.  But with a little help from our friends, The GA Peach Authors took their title of The Housewives of Literature: Atlanta to a whole new level on their Saturday panel.  As my mother would say, "this was just a whole 'nother other!"

 

Yes, we brought the words, the stories, and the sass -- and we made it look GOOD!  With guest author Miranda Parker, we strutted the stilettos and flashed the fluttering lashes, but the best thing we did was to meet the readers.  Thanks to sensational Decatur City Councilwoman, Kiesha Cunningham, for moderating and helping us to bring the heat.  And a special thanks is due to all of the great staff and DBF volunteers for making us so welcome that we could make the rest look easy.  It was great fun!

   

My Writing Life: Headed to the AJC Decatur Book Festival

It's finally here -- the annual AJC Decatur Book Festival!  Today, the GA Peach Authors, also known as "The Housewives of Literature: Atlanta," will be taking the stage for a panel discussion from 5:30 - 6:15pm.

Okay, so I'm really excited to be talking books with my GA Peach girls, and a bunch of folks who really like to read.  But the event has also got me thinking about my "Housewife" icon, Nene Leakes, and what she would have to say about my writing, maybe books, and just stuff in general.  So, with a tip of my hat to Nene, here are my four favorite quotes from her:

1. "Close your legs to married men..."  There was a whole lot more to this one, but you'd have to be there.  Anyway, with reference to my latest novel, Doing BIG Things, the heroine should have taken this advice, but since she didn't, you need to read the book.
2. "I wear a size 10, but I could be an 8 if I wanted.  I'm just effin' hungry."  Now, who amoung us does not get this?  I may work in fitness and spend a lot of my life in the gym, but I like to eat, too!
3. "I truly believe that blonde wigs will make you crazy."  Okay, I have no real world connotation for this one.  I just think its funny!
4. "I don't keep up with the Joneses, I am the Jonses."  My thought, paraphrased, with every word I write.  My goal is to make every book, every character, and every scene better than the one before.  I LOVE what I do, and besides, readers deserve that and so much more.

Nene has said a lot of other things, but these are my faves.  You have any?  Send them to me the_fitwryter@yahoo.com.

See you in Decatur!
   

Remaining 2012 GA Peach Author Tour Dates

Saturday, September 1, 2012
5:30 - 6:15 p.m. (GA Peach organizer/Marissa Monteilh)
Guest author - Miranda Parker
Featured Authors - 7th Annual AJC Decatur Book Festival
Location: Decatur Conference Center Auditorium - Courtyard Marriott Hotel
130 Clairemont Avenue
Phone: 404-371-0204
Decatur, GA 30030
Panel: The Housewives of Literature: Atlanta
Topic: Drama
Panel discussion - Q&A - all 5 GA Peach Authors' books will be available for purchase
(Jean Holloway, Gail McFarland, Marissa Monteilh, Miranda Parker, Electa Rome Parks)
http://www.decaturbookfestival.com/2012/schedule/event-details.php?id=77

Sunday, September 16, 2012
12:00 - 2:00 p.m. (GA Peach organizer/Electa Rome Parks)
V-103 - For Sister's Only: Sip and Sign
GA Peach Authors Q&A, signing, mix and mingle
Location: The Georgia World Congress Center
Atlanta, GA

Saturday, October 6, 2012
Time: TBA (GA Peach organizer/Gail McFarland)
Atlanta Black Theatre Festival
Author's Alley
GA Peach Authors' Writing Workshop
Location: Loews Atlanta Hotel (Midtown)
Atlanta, GA

The GA Peach Authors are proud to be featured presenters at the 2012 Decatur Book Festival (Atlanta, GA)

Please click here for more information on the GA Peach Authors's appearance at the Decatur Book Festival - Sat. 9/1/12 @ 5:30 p.m.

The Housewives of Literature: Atlanta

Decatur Conference Center Auditorium Saturday, 5:30 pm - 6:15 pm
Georgia Peach authors gather and engage in a conversation about being Georgia writers, women, and friends.

Presenters:

	Gail McFarland, Author
	Electa Parks, Author
	Jean Holloway, Author
	Marissa Monteilh, Author
	Miranda Parker, Author

Getting to know GA Peach Author - Electa Rome Parks

Getting to know GA Peach Author

Electa Rome Parks

When did you start writing?I have been writing for as long as I can remember; writing and reading have always defined who and what I am as a person. Writing is the love affair of my life. From a professional standpoint, I started writing and penned my first novel, The Ties That Bind in 2001.


How, why and when did you decide you wanted to be a published writer? How did you go about it? What did you do to achieve this end?For me, becoming a published writer was a natural progression. Friends and family who knew me back in the day, they can all testify to the fact that I was always writing something (a short story, a poem, a play) or had my head buried in a book, usually mystery or supernatural. Being a quiet, shy child, writing was a means for me to express myself, non-verbally. Later, I realized I had a voice that needed to be heard (read). And reading was my escape to meeting other people and worlds that I could only imagine.


I went about accomplishing my goal by researching, networking and finding mentors in my genre. I lived and breathed the literary industry. Eventually I published via print on demand, then traditionally self-published and eventually went mainstream after being picked up by a major publishing house. I achieved this by hustling. . . attending every conference, literary event, signing, book club meeting, etc., that I could. I made it my mission to network with creative, like-minded people in the industry and to get the word out about my book and myself. Passion, persistence and perservance paid off when a literary agent contacted me and within 30 days had inked a 3-book deal with a major publishing house.


How would you describe the writing you are doing?I write contemporary and erotic fiction. I’ve also been classified as a women’s fiction author.


Who is your target audience? What motivated you to start writing for this audience?My target audience is anyone who enjoys a good book! Primarily, African-American women and a small percentage of men tend to purchase my novels. I don’t know if I was motivated to start writing for this audience as opposed to this audience is who I am. I am an African-American woman; however my storylines tend to stem from life experiences, lessons, and situations that are universal.


In the writing you are doing, which authors influenced you most? Why did they have this influence?
I absolutely adore contemporary fiction authors and my greatest influence was, hands down, author Terry McMillian. I witnessed and applauded the commercial successful she achieved with her books, from them being New Times Bestselling novels to being adapted to movies for the big screen. Her books, especially Disappearing Acts, was the first book that spoke to me as I saw myself and others in the storyline. I could relate. I laughed out loud, I cried and I didn’t want that book to end. I wanted to savor each page, digest it and breathe it in. There was such a connection that it left an impact that inspired me to reach for my dream.


How have your own personal experiences influenced your writing? I’m sure in many ways that I haven’t even though about. I write from the heart about many topical issues prevalent in our communities. I’ve touched upon domestic abuse, molestation, friendship, dysfunctional relationships, stalking, mental illness and the list goes on. My characters aren’t perfect and my storylines don’t necessarily have happily ever after endings. However, they are much like real life. I share life lessons and give readers imperfect characters they can embrace, whether they choose to love or hate them.


What are your main concerns as a writer? How do you deal with these concerns? My main concern as a writer is the constantly changing literary climate. I know of many talented authors who have lost book deals and can’t appear to get another one. I hate the fact that the industry is all about sales and the bottom line. There doesn’t appear to be an appreciation for the craft or an internal mentoring process for the author anymore.

I deal with these concerns by accepting the fact that what’s going to be is going to be. What’s meant for me is for me. I simply can’t sweat the small stuff so to speak. I have to continue to write my stories and be true to myself. How the changes pan out remains to be seen.


What are the biggest challenges that you face? And, how do you deal with these challenges?I think I answered this in the previous question. Staying abreast of the changing industry and remaining relevant are two big challenges for me. I deal with them by doing what I love to do, which is to write. I simply can’t allow myself to worry about things which are not within my control.


Do you write every day? How does each session start? How do you proceed? How, where and why does it end? When I first started my professional literary career, I did write every single day. However, with my life evolving, that has changed. I simply don’t have the time to write every single day. My session usually starts with me writing long-hand and simply doing a free flow style. I let the characters speak and tell their story. So, you will never see me with a detailed outline that some authors utilize. Later, I transpose my notes to my computer and tighten the prose up a bit. Typically, by the end of the session, I end up with a good first draft that later will be rewritten several times and edited.


How many books have you written so far? (Please include titles, publisher, date of publication and a brief description of the book/books. I have written eight books, with a 9th book,When Baldwin Loved Brenden, dropping January 2013. A brief description of each novel can be found at my website, www.electaromeparks.com. Please stop by and check them out!


The Stalker Chronicles (Kensington/Urban Books, 2012)
True Confessions (Kensington/Urban Books, 2010)
Diary of a Stalker (Kensington/Urban Books, 2009)
These Are My Confessions (HarperCollins/Avon Red, 2007)
Ladies' Night Out (Penguin Group/NAL, 2007)
Almost Doesn't Count (Penguin Group/NAL, 2005)
Loose Ends (Penguin Group/NAL, 2004)
The Ties That Bind (Penguin Group/NAL, 2004)


What is your latest book about?The Stalker Chronicles - She's back, and this time it's all about revenge.

Tall, dark, and handsome bestselling male author Xavier Preston thought his nightmare—in the form of Pilar, a fanatical stalker/fan—had finally ended. Little does he know it’s only beginning. When Xavier met Pilar, he got much more than he bargained for. What started out as an erotic one-night stand quickly turned into a dangerous game of obsession and pain, with both parties playing to win. Then she simply disappeared.


Stunning Pilar hasn't gone away, though. In fact, she has been very near, watching his every move and patiently waiting for him to realize they were meant to be together forever. She still believes they’re soul mates, and the only option for her is “Until death do us part.” If she can't have Xavier, then no one can. Now no one is safe—not his friends, and definitely not him.


Revenge can be a real killer.

How long did it take you to write the book? It took approximately 4 months to write the novel. This timeframe didn’t include rewrites and edits.


Where and when was it published?It was published in January 2012 by Kensington/Urban Books.


How did you chose a publisher for the book? Why this publisher? What advantages and/or disadvantages has this presented? How are you dealing with these?My recent novel was part of a second, two-book deal with this particular publishing house.


Which aspects of the work you put into the book did you find most difficult? Why do you think this was so? How did you deal with these?At this point in my career, I pretty much have a system or rhythm when it comes to my writing. Once I have my storyline and the characters are speaking to me, it’s on. LOL. As strange as it may sound, I almost see the various scenes played out in my mind like a movie. I hear my characters voices as clear as I can hear yours.

I can’t really describe any difficulties I had with my previous project. It was a much-anticipated, much-requested sequel and the characters hadn’t left me. In fact, their voices were as strong as ever. So, it was like revisiting old friends, playing catch-up and putting it all on paper.


Which aspects of the work did you enjoy most? Why is this?I enjoyed revisiting old friends in The Stalker Chronicles, which is the sequel to Diary of a Stalker. I had missed my characters and it was refreshing to find out what was going on in their lives and to speak with them again.


What sets the book apart from the other things you've written?This was only my second attempt at an erotic thriller. So the genre was a little different from what I typically write.


In what way is it similar to the others? It was similar in that it incorporated my trademark style of writing that I have become known for: it was drama-filled, spicy, relationship-based, fast paced with imperfect characters and with a twist to the storyline.


What will your next book be about?My next book is titled, When Baldwin Loved Brenden.
Fair-weather friends come and go, but true friendship lasts a lifetime. Same goes for true love.
Ten years is a long time. Much can change in ten years, an entire decade. That’s how many years have passed when a former close-knit group of college friends, Baldwin, Brenden, Bria and Christopher, self-proclaimed The Group, are tragically reunited to attend the funeral of one of their own in a small North Carolina town.

The Group hasn’t seen or spoken to one another since an unfortunate set of circumstances placed their friendship in jeopardy ten years earlier. After graduation, everyone went their separate ways and never looked back, until now. The past has a way of catching up with you, sooner or later. Baldwin, the romantic, Brenden, the do-gooder, Bria, the wildchild, Christopher, the pretty boy, are all about to discover the truth in that.


Rihanna was once dubbed the peacemaker of the group. Her death reunites them for an unforgettable, poignant and life changing few days. Each friend will confront their own internal demons and leave a changed person. Secrets are revealed, hurts exposed, tears shed and laugher shared, all in the name of friendship and love.

Can anything truly tear real friendship and love apart?

What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?I would say my most significant achievement has been just that. . . the fact that I am a published author. It’s not a dream anymore, it’s a reality. I have a voice. Readers embrace my books and enjoy them. I’m doing something I love and that I’m passionate about. It doesn’t get any better than that. Priceless.

 

TOMORROW: Please join the GA Peach Authors on BAN radio - Wed. 8/8/12!

Please join the GA Peach Authors, Electa Rome Parks, Gail McFarland, Jean Holloway, and Marissa Monteilh as we have a sweet literary discussion with Ella Curry on her popular Blogtalk show, BAN Radio, the Black Author Network. We'll discuss our recent stage play vignettes, our titles, tour, writing, what it's like working together in a group, our upcoming plans, and we might even share a tad bit of personal information that you may find interesting, plus we'll answer your questions and read from our latest titles. It'll be a blast!

Join us tomorrow, Wed. 8/8/12 from 8-10 p.m. EST - please listen in, log in, call in, chat with us!!

It's ladies's night! Wednesday, 8/8/12, from 8-10 p.m. EST - call in # (646) 200-0402

BLOGTALK RADIO - BLACK AUTHOR NETWORK

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/black-author-network

My Writing Life: A Review To Remember!

I just got a really amazing review from a GoodReads reader, and I thought I would share.  Wow, and thank you, Vivian!

     

Jul 19, 2012

Vivian rated it

Shelves: first-reads, women-s-fiction, summer-2012-read

A first reads winner.

Wealthy Loi Cramer recalls the life she began with her late husband, Alex Cramer. It is your typical poor, down on her luck girl meets wealthy man who sweeps her off her feet story but with a twist. She meets him while she's employed at his house while caring for his ailing wife. An affair begins. Gossip spreads. Loi begins to wonder if the mistress ever becomes the wife.

Then the story really begins. Cannot possibly add more details without spoiling the book. You are just g...more A first reads winner.

Wealthy Loi Cramer recalls the life she began with her late husband, Alex Cramer. It is your typical poor, down on her luck girl meets wealthy man who sweeps her off her feet story but with a twist. She meets him while she's employed at his house while caring for his ailing wife. An affair begins. Gossip spreads. Loi begins to wonder if the mistress ever becomes the wife.

Then the story really begins. Cannot possibly add more details without spoiling the book. You are just going to have to trust me. It gets better with each turn of the page. I completed this novel in the matter of hours. A really great read. 

  

When's the Best Time of Year to Release a Book?

I had a recent conversation with a fellow author about the best time of year to release a book. Years ago, I remember thinking in terms of specific times of year, but stopped focusing on that and simply went along with the dates that my publishers had set. But because I'm re-releasing titles and debuting a few ebook novellas, lately I have found this conversation to be very interesting.

I was told that the summer months are not as good for sales, as a lot of people are going on vacation, attending weddings and family reunions, putting kids in summer camp - thus there are tighter reins on finances during the summer months. Also, December can be a concern because readers are spending money on Christmas, though there is a tendency for readers to buy books as gifts, so it's a toss up.

An editor told me that the best times of year are fall and spring. Also, specifically February and March work well. Plus if the weather is bad, more readers tend to shut-in with a good book,whatever month that might end up being.

I suppose it just depends on the title and how bad a reader wants to buy it. I have author friends whose books came out this summer, and are doing very well, and some who always have January releases that do well, too. I have titles pubbing in December 2012, February 2013, and May 2013. In the ten years that I've contracted with various mainstream publishers, none of them have ever scheduled my book releases in the summer months (perhaps just a coincidence). Publishers do try and stick with a specific release month for each author, and readers seem to make note of that particular month when it comes to their favorite writers.

Do you consider the time of year as it relates to your book releases? Which time of year works best for you as far as sales, or does it not seem to matter one bit? Right now with ebooks, I think a lot of self-pubbed authors are posting their titles as soon as the books are done.

I know that publishers put a lot of thought into the subject, though I'm not certain the time of year matters as much as a reader's burning desire for the title. Interesting though!

Write on!

My Writing Life: Glad to see "Us" making a connection

This just in, thanks to author Ava Bleu's Romance Noire group post ... 

Troy Johnson, founder of the  African American Literature Book Club (AALBC) has created a search site featuring books by authors from within the black community.  This is especially important because our books are often lost and disconnected from the authors in the larger search engines that focus on books produced by larger traditional publishers. 

You can check out the site today at http://huria.org.   If you'd like to know more about the motivation behind the site, take a moment to visit Troy's blog at AALBC.com.  The entry is listed on the Founder's Blog, under Book Info.

Happy Reading!!

  

 

We Survived!

The GA Peach Authors are breathing a collective sigh of relief today -- we have just survived our very first Vignette Buffet and Benefit! 

Clamping down on our nerves, we stood tall and proud, tried not to clutch our pearls, and watched our work roll out onto the stage at the Green Room Actors Lounge last night.

Trusting in prayer and the love of our friends, families, and a crew of talented actors, we stood together and watched characters from Hot Girlz, Ace of Hearts, Diary of A Stalker, and Doing BIG Things come to life.  The process of getting to this point has been so much more involved than any of us could have envisioned when we began this journey together.

It would take so much more space and time than we have here to list all of the lessons that we've learned along the way, but like I said, we made it!  All in all, it was a memorable experience for all involved, and we GA Peaches know that we have just taken another HUGE step on the path of our writing journey.

Thanks for all the support!

   

 

Here We Go!

Hard to believe, but TONIGHT's the night!  In the immortal words of Kool and The Gang, "It's ladies night," and the GA Peach Authors are ready to shine.  If you haven't already heard, we hope that you'll consider this your invitation to join us tonight at the Green Room Actors Lounge, here in Atlanta, for the Vignettes Buffet and Benefit. 

We've turned scenes from our novels into stage productions and will also be signing books to benefit Actors for Autism.  Event attendees will also be able to enjoy the cool and sultry ambiance of the Green Room and an amazing buffet supper prepared by Chef Shelia of Cookin' With Flava'.

If you can't make it to the Green Room and want to support our charity or congratulate us, you can now do so via live streaming! Just buy a $5.00 congratulatory message ticket. There's also a $10.00 ticket for businesses that want to run an ad for the evening.  Both will stream live on the Green Room's website and on Facebook. When you buy a streaming ticket, you will be emailed with details on how to proceed.

We're excited, and hope to see YOUR face in the place!

  

  

Atlanta - Please join us this Saturday, 7/28/12 at The Green Room

DFW SoulFEST and Casting Call

September is turning out to be quite a month! You can tell by our schedule that we're on the move. Also Marissa and I will be in St. Louis for the Fall Into Books Literary Conference, September 14th & 15th. http://www.fallintobooks.com

Now I've been invited by The Dock Bookshop to be a featured author at the DFW SoulFEST on September 22nd.  http://literarysoulfest.com 

This will be my 1st Ft. Worth visit, so I need readers in the DFW area to come out and show me some love and probably revive me with a little iced coffee. Does Ft. Worth cool down by the end of September?  Dear Lord, I certainly hope so. 

And don't forget Terri J. Vaughn's The Green Room Vignettes Buffet and Benefit, Saturday, July 28th. http://vignettebuffet.eventbrite.com We've worked hard to turn scenes from our novels into a stage play! Oh, yeah, if anyone knows a starving, mid-twenties to early thirties, Caucasian actor who wants to be the romantic lead in an interracial relationship for the exposure (translation, fifteen minutes of fame, no pay, but dinner's on me ;o) please email me: jeanholloway@deckofcardz.com

OK, after reading my literary sisters' blogs, I have to admit, I'm not much of a blogger. I never know what to say, so how 'bout I toss the ball into your court?  If you have a question, just add it as a comment and I promise to personally answer each one.

The Six-Letter Word - one woman's story of survival!

I'm happy to announce that I recently released my first ebook novella called The Six-Letter Word! If you or anyone you know has ever heard the words, "You have cancer," you will not want to miss this title about one woman's struggle to survive. It is a touching story of fate and faith! Thank you for your support through the years. I hope to meet you during one of our upcoming GA Peach events!

Synopsis: Years ago, McKenzie Livingston made some changes in her life that resulted in a sound career and marriage, a close relationship with her sister and niece, and a promising future, or so she thinks. But God has something else in store for her, all packed into one six-letter word.

The Six-Letter Word is a never-say-never story of how lives can change without warning, and about being comfortable with being uncomfortable. It is a peek into the life of a woman whose test can be her testimony of growth - but first she must overcome the unpredictability-factors of divine order. McKenzie's future is in the hands of fate - but it will take courage, faith, and love to simply survive.

Amazon link: The Six-Letter Word

A Little Summer Delight

Hot weather, holiday week, and time to enjoy it -- what could be better? 

How about four FREE ebook downloads?

From now until July 5th, enjoy relaxing, sensual, intimate beach and patio-perfect novellas and short stories, all ripe for the reading.  To download your copies, simply click the link for each story.  On the Smashwords site, take your pick of any one -- or even all four -- ebook freebies, then enter the discount code at check out.  Choose from:

    

A MATTER OF MARRIAGE (code TW74V)

WHAT ONE WON'T DO (code CZ63H)

ONCE (OR TWICE) IN A LIFETIME (code QQ99R)

THIS SIDE OF FOREVER (code KD72M)

   

Read your new ebook on any reader, including your Kindle, Nook, iPad, iPhone, Sony Reader, or PC.  Just click the link, download, and enjoy!

Oh, and tell a friend!

   

Save the Dates - GA Peach Authors' Upcoming Events

PLEASE SAVE THE DATES: (more details and events will be added)

Saturday, July 28, 2012,
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. (GA Peach organizer/Jean Holloway)
GA Peach Authors' Vignettes Buffet and Benefit
Scenes from the GA Peach Authors' titles brought to life on stage
Terri Vaughn's Green Room Actor's Lounge
25-D Bennett Street, NW
Atlanta, GA 30309
Tickets: $40 indiv./$70 couple
http://vignettebuffet.eventbrite.com/

Wednesday, August 8, 2012
 8:00 - 10:00 p.m. EST

The GA Peach Authors meet BAN Radio

Host: Ella Curry
Call-in - 646.200.0402
www.blogtalkradio.com/black-author-network

Saturday, September 1, 2012
5:30 - 6:15 p.m. (GA Peach organizer/Marissa Monteilh)
Guest author - Miranda Parker
7th Annual AJC Decatur Book Festival
Location: Decatur Conference Center Auditorium - Marriott Hotel
130 Clairemont Avenue
Phone: 404-371-0204
Decatur, GA 30030
Panel: The Housewives of Literature: Atlanta 
Topic: Drama
Panel discussion - Q&A - all 5 GA Peach Authors' books will be available for purchase
(Jean Holloway, Gail McFarland, Marissa Monteilh, Miranda Parker, Electa Rome Parks)
http://www.decaturbookfestival.com/

Sunday, September 16, 2012
1:00 - 3:00 p.m.  (GA Peach organizer/Electa Rome Parks)
V-103 - For Sister's Only: Sip and Sign
GA Peach Authors Q&A, signing, mix and mingle
Location: The Georgia World Congress Center
Atlanta, GA

Saturday, October 6, 2012
Time: TBA (GA Peach organizer/Gail McFarland)
Atlanta Black Theatre Festival
Author's Alley
GA Peach Authors' Writing Workshop
Location: Loews Atlanta Hotel (Midtown)
Atlanta, GA

Saturday, March 16, 2013
Time: TBA (GA Peach organizer/Marissa Monteilh)
5th Annual Unity Festival
GA Peach Authors Q&A and signing
Gulfport, MS
http://www.gulfcoast.org/visitors/events/index.cfm?EventID=2202

Notes From My Writing Life: Book Coaching

Believing that literacy is an amazing gift, knowing that people have shed blood and tears for it, I take reading seriously.   I also take writing very seriously.  So you have to know that when a friend approached me about acting as his book coach, I was enthused and took the request seriously.    What I should have done was to take a paraphrased cue from Forest Gump:  “Mama says, ‘reading is what writers do.’”  Suffice it to say, my friend is not a reader.

Hindsight being what it is, I suppose that I should have gone into the project realizing that someone who does not read fiction simply won’t have an automatic “feel” for it.  I probably should have asked to see an outline or proposal, but I love my friends , so I jumped in with both feet, from word one. 

On the surface, the job of a book coach is pretty straightforward:

·         Walk the author through the step-by-step process of writing, publishing, and promoting their book

·         Explain the structure of a book and how the parts fit together

·         Help organize ideas, research, main points, and written material

·         Help create a writing plan, set realistic deadlines, and create a schedule for meeting them

·         Work with the author to find their own unique voice

·         Help develop the book from the original idea through the outline, rough drafts, and revisions to polished manuscript

·         Provide feedback and advice on flow, grammar, substance, and writing style

·         Point out inconsistencies, word repetition, weak vocabulary, and lack of clarity

Knowing what the job entailed, I knew that I could handle it.  To his credit, my friend is not lazy and didn’t expect me to write the book for him.  What I didn’t plan on was that I would have to begin by tutoring him in grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, and spelling.  What I wasn’t prepared for was that he would grow more than a little angry with me for doing EXACTLY what he asked me to do.  That left me with some questions like:

·         How do you become annoyed with someone who mentors you on the use of YOUR native language?

·         How can you stay irritated by someone who insists that you use quotation marks in a novel?

·         How does anyone fume over the need for paragraphs?

·         What kind of novel has only one endless chapter?

Okay, so you probably already know how this ends…  My friend is convinced that he has developed a new 400-page art form, and that book coaching and traditional novel forms are over-rated.  He also now thinks that I am an anal-retentive book Nazi and I am not going to tell him any different.  For my part, I am hoping that he will figure out another way to tell his story.

Probably as a video.