Zen of Writing

Publication - even more on Trailers

2012-02-14T06:22:00.001-06:00

14 February 2012, Publication - even more on Trailers

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Before I write a book, I spend one to two years of intense historical study prior to putting ink to paper. I spent even longer on Centurion. I started writing the novel in 1989 while flying in Europe and especially in Turkey. The Middle East and Italy were inspirations to me in putting together a work about Roman Legionnaires, Galilee, and Judea around 0 to 35 AD.

The Question:

I always ask a question when I write. The question I asked myself in Centurion is what would the Roman Legionnaire be like who crucified Christ? What would he think and what would his life be like. Who was he?

The Characters:

The idea came from a short story I put together one Easter. I imagined the response of the woman of the streets who lived with the Centurion who crucified Christ. I saw her as a person like the women who initially trusted in the Christ, like Mary Magdalene. At first the Centurion Abenadar was not a sympathetic character, but in building his life, he was an honorable man who was driven by events and his responsibility to do what needed to be done. Each of the characters grew from the reality of their times and place in the society of 30 AD.

We see Abenadar change from a recruit through the training of the legion into a legionnaire, and with battles and training to become a Centurion assigned to Pilate in Judea.

We see Ruth, the woman he rescues from the street both vulnerable and yet powerful. A strength behind the compassion of the Centurion.

Teaser:

Finally, though a novel, Centurion is good history. For the reader, through the eyes of Abenadar, the world of 30 AD in Judea comes alive.

This is the script for the trailer to my novel Centurion. I need to redo the trailer, but the script isn't too bad.

More on book trailers tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - more on Trailers

2012-02-13T06:21:00.001-06:00

13 February 2012, Publication - more on Trailers

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - Trailers

2012-02-12T06:23:00.001-06:00

12 February 2012, Publication - Trailers

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - Book Signings Conclusions

2012-02-11T06:29:00.001-06:00

11 February 2012, Publication - Book Signings Conclusions

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - and even still more on Book Signings

2012-02-10T06:26:00.001-06:00

10 February 2012, Publication - and even still more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

I'm writing so much about book signings because there is always author interest in this topic. Personally, I haven't found book signings themselves to be very lucrative or successful. I have found bundling book signings with other events to be very helpful. For example, when I teach classes, I always offer my books for sale, and I always offer to sign the books. When I do a talk, I offer books for sale, and I sign them. When I sell books at a store or at a bazaar, I offer to sign the books. The people who come aren't necessarily interested in the signing, they are interested in the book, and a secondary consideration is the signing.

So, if you want to take a lesson from this, don't necessarily have book signings--offer a talk, a reading, a class, perhaps a meet the author, and as a side note, sign books. This little observation goes along with the note on books versus topics. Remember, I wrote that you will likely never get an interview based on your book, rather people will be interested in the topic of your book. Your book isn't usually the draw, it is the topic. Likewise, people are not interested in your signature, they are interested in your book. Sell them your book, and they will want a signature.

I'll try to finish up about book signings tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - and still more on Book Signings

2012-02-09T06:24:00.001-06:00

9 February 2012, Publication - and still more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - still more on Book Signings

2012-02-08T06:24:00.001-06:00

8 February 2012, Publication - still more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

There is still much more to discuss about book signings. I mentioned before everywhere, but that isn't a sufficient answer. Most people expect book signings to be set up in a book store with some big hoopla. Well, unless you are a best seller, don't expect any hoopla at all. All the hoopla has to come from you.

The simplest way to get a book signing at a book store is if your publisher has a standard agreement with a bookstore supplier like Ingram. If this agreement exists, it is very easy to get your books into a bookstore and to have a book signing. The reason is that a bookstore is not usually willing to take on an indie seller or a writer whose books can't be bought at standard wholesale with guaranteed return. I've talked about this before. If your books are standard distribution, it is not difficult to call a bookstore and set up a book signing. Just give them time to get copies of your book and begin advertising. The bookstore might provide some advertising for you, but unless you are famous as an author, you won't get much, if any, play in the papers, radio, or TV. You have to generate the advertising and excitement. It can be very helpful to discuss this with the bookstore, but don't expect much help or advise.

I'll write more about the details (where and when) of book signings tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - and even more on Book Signings

2012-02-07T06:26:00.001-06:00

7 February 2012, Publication - and even more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - even even more on Book Signings

2012-02-06T06:25:00.001-06:00

6 February 2012, Publication - even even more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - even more on Book Signings

2012-02-05T06:28:00.001-06:00

5 February 2012, Publication - even more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - more on Book Signings

2012-02-04T06:24:00.001-06:00

4 February 2012, Publication - more on Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - Book Signings

2012-02-03T06:26:00.001-06:00

3 February 2012, Publication - Book Signings

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - more on Gifts

2012-02-02T06:20:00.001-06:00

2 February 2012, Publication - more on Gifts

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

This is what I would like to do for gifts when Sister of Light comes out. I'd like to give away an ankh with each book I send to reviewers and to special readers. The ankh plays a special role in the novel and it would represent the novel perfectly. This is one of the tricks you can use to try to get reviewers to choose your novel over all the others they receive to review. This is an example of a method you can use with gifts to draw attention to your novel--especially to a select audience. The point isn't to simple give away a trinket with your book, but to develop something that you can give to a target audience that will draw more attention to your book. This is basic marketing.

Gifts should be a part of your marketing plan. Mine--and I'm still searching for a low cost ankh--is to use the ankh in a packet to potential reviewers and my biggest book fans, to get them interested in promoting my book. Since I'll have two new books out at once, I think I can get double the bang for the buck. I'm hoping that the interest in the first book with generate interest for the second book. They are standalone, but one follows the other in time.

What if I can't find a low cost ankh to give away with the book? Maybe I'll print one on a slip seal for the novel. A slip seal is a piece of cardboard or paper placed around a book to keep it closed. The point isn't necessarily to give away something, but rather to set your novel apart from others.

I'll write about book signings tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Gifts

2012-02-01T06:23:00.001-06:00

1 February 2012, Publication - Gifts
Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

Gifts are anything you give out that has some intrinsic value. So, bookmarks can be a gift. Generally, the purpose in giving gifts is to bribe your target audience to then investigate your book. Today, this has turned into giving away copy. There are great reasons why this isn't a good idea, but we'll get to that.

Let's investigate small gifts. Usually, these are much lower in cost than your book. For gifts to be successful, they need to be much lower than the cost of your profit from the book. So if you are buying the book at $10 a copy and selling it for $15, you need to make certain the overall cost of the gift is much lower than $5. By the way, don't forget to include your overhead.

I have given bookmarks as a gift with my books. I like to give a bookmark for a novel other than the one that was purchased, but most buyers choose a bookmark that matches the book. I get bookmark blanks from the Internet and can print them myself for less than $0.10 each. They are in full color. The blanks I get are very fine parchment paper. Since they are so cheap, I can afford to throw in a couple with a book sale. I also sometimes throw in a book card, either postage card or greeting card size that lists all my books. These aren't really gifts, but if the reader really likes your novel, they will likely look for others to read.

I just had that experience with Aegypt. A reader contacted me about the two follow-ons that are on contract. They aren't out yet--oh well. I pointed them to my science fiction, but I haven't heard back from them. They really liked Aegypt.

I'll write more about gifts tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - more on Emailing

2012-01-31T06:25:00.001-06:00

31 January 2012, Publication - more on Emailing

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - Emailing

2012-01-30T06:22:00.001-06:00

30 January 2012, Publication - Emailing

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

I'm not done complaining about writers who don't understand the topics they write about, but enough is enough for now. Let's move on to the next means of advertising that is emailing. I've had mostly good experiences with emailing, but not emailers. Although I use Outlook, my Outlook has barfed on the bcc messages I've sent. I need to update my list for my emailings, but that's a personal problem.

For emailings, build your list from people who are or might be interested in your writing. The best method to make lists is to build them in your email software list system. Then us bcc (blind copy) to send your emails. You should send out emails once a month and prior to special book events or special events you might do. I need to get my emails working again. I will when I have time. Your email list and your monthly email is likely the most important contact you have with people who are interested in your novels.

Problems to look out for are first the bcc. People don't like their email addresses sent to others. Second, make sure you take people off your list immediately if they ask. Third, help your emails to not look like spam. I used to have a whole list on this, but I've lost it and it may not be pertinent anymore. The best way to prevent your emailings from being treated like spam is to send them to your friends. Also make sure there is at least one recipient in the to field. I don't think a bcc will go without it, but this helps prevent automatic spamerization.
I'll write more about emailing tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - more Problems Writing Science Fiction

2012-01-29T06:20:00.000-06:00

29 January 2012, Publication - more Problems Writing Science Fiction

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

It really helps to study science to write science fiction. What passes for science fiction today is generally a pale copy of the hard science fiction of the 1950s. The problem today is that many people are not educated very well in science. For example, if you don't know what was wrong with Han Solo's comment about making the Kessel Run in 12 parsecs, you likely shouldn't be writing science fiction. Likewise, if you don't realize why the space fighters banking in outer space is completely illogical and stupid--you shouldn't be writing science fiction. How about this one, if you don't realize that chaos theory in mathematics is about order, then you shouldn't be writing science fiction. By the way, if you realize where the last science mistake came from, you might have read enough science fiction to think about writing it. On the other hand, if you realise that red blood cells don't have enough nucleic material to build a DNA chain, you are definitely ready to write.

So, really, how do you know you are ready to write science fiction? If you understand orbital mechanics and have at least managed the basic math in college physics, you might be ready. If you know enough about aerodynamics to work around the lift and drag equations, you likely know enough to write about vehicles landing in an atmosphere. If you understand biological science well enough so you know what the APT cycle is, you might be ready to tackle writing about an alien creature.

But you might say--science is what you can imagine. No way, science has nothing to do with what you can imagine, but rather what you can imagine and extrapolate. Do you realize that among the great science fiction writers, few of them predicted any real technology or inventions. John Brunner is likely the only writer of note who predicted the future. Heilein, Clark, and Asimov had their characters using slipsticks in outer space when computers were available and even on their ships. Many of the greats missed science right on their doorsteps, or ignored known science in their writing. So, I'll repeat, don't write science fiction unless you understand science. You can write all the science fantasy you want--just don't pretend it's science fiction.

I'll write about emailing tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Problems Writing Science Fiction

2012-01-28T06:20:00.001-06:00

28 January 2012, Publication - Problems Writing Science Fiction
Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

It isn't just history that gets a short shrift in writing novels--science gets kicked to the curb even more often than history. At least with history, even though it's totally screwed up, the world usually works according to logic and scientific principals. With science fiction, you can't be sure of that. The number of real scientists or engineers, that is people who actually know something about the science in science fiction is so low, you're lucky to get a battery hooked up correctly in a circuit. In fact, the knowledge of science is so low among most nonscience graduates from prestigious colleges that you'll be lucky if they know how the seasons change much less the slightest inkling of orbital dynamics. In fact, if they know what an orbit is, you'll be lucky--George Lucas doesn't seem to have the slightest idea what an orbit or space is like at all. The Star Wars series is pure science fantasy and not anything close to science fiction.

So, what can I tell you? If you really want to write science fiction, you need to study science, and you aren't going to get that knowledge from most modern science fiction novels. I write hard science fiction. If you want to get an idea of what real science fiction is like, you need to read my novels. My novels are based on my own work in aerospace. My undergraduate is in Chemistry. My graduate degree is in Mechanical Engineering. My Ph.D. is in Aerospace Engineering. I'm literally a rocket scientist (that's a joke). My specialty is really in low speed and transonic aerodynamics. I actually know something about science, and I write science fiction.

I don't believe you have to be a Ph.D. to write science fiction--it helps, but it's not necessary. What is necessary is some real knowledge of science. If you didn't get As in your science classes, and you don't understand what an integral is, don't even attempt to write science fiction until you really study it. At least read my books and Asimov, Clark, or Heinlein.

I'll write more about science fiction and expertise tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Problems Writing History

2012-01-27T06:27:00.001-06:00

27 January 2012, Publication - Problems Writing History

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

It isn't just history that gets kicked to the curb with many so called writers of historical fiction. I personally don't mind people messing with details that would be unrecorded or unimportant in history, but get the details right about the things we do know. If you aren't a historian, you will (or should) ask--how do I get the details to be accurate? The answer is to study, study, study--the correct material. You should then ask--what is the correct material? the answer has been the same since Moses and Herodotus--primary source documents. If you base and develop your historical fiction on anything other than primary source documents, you are not writing historical fiction--you are simply writing fiction in a semi-historical setting.

The first rule is focus your studies on primary source documents. The second is, don't read anything into the history. That is, don't assume any modern conventions in the historical accounts. Go look at how people lived and what they did--don't assume they lived like they do now or did 100 years ago (unless your time period is 100 years ago). As I mentioned yesterday, in the ancient world, people did not have furniture like chairs or tables. If they had tables, they were for reclining, very similar to a low table from Japan. There were no tables to hide under. Beds were on the ground and bedrooms were for families. Modesty is a modern invention, as is underwear and personal hygiene. If you start with the idea that the world is very different than what you understand, you can begin to learn about it, if you don't, you won't write historical fiction.

I'll write about science fiction and expertise tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Problems Writing History

2012-01-26T06:23:00.001-06:00

26 January 2012, Publication - Problems Writing

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

I see some of the worst writing in historical fiction because many historical fiction writers have absolutely no knowledge or expertise in the topic of their writing. They have learned everything they used to write their novels from movies or other badly written historical fiction. This, in my mind, is the ultimate hubris. Such writers don't deserve any success because they haven't put in the level of study worthy of writing their novels. Plus, anyone who reads their novels might mistakenly imagine their record of history could be possibly true. The falsification of history through gross ignorance is unforgivable.

Examples of bad history in historical fiction: money in novels set before 600 BC or even in some cultures as late as 200 BC, ubiquitous money, ubiquitous furniture (few had any furniture at all), chairs (only royalty or the very high had chairs), not reclining to eat (in almost every west oriental or early Western culture people reclined to eat. Only slaves didn't recline), dishes, plates, or pots (early cultures didn't use such things), ubiquitous metal (metal was equal to money), ubiquitous weapons or other metal objects (same as metal), cooking (very little cooking could be done), ubiquitous meat (the average person ate meat once a month), lack of beer (almost every culture and person drank barley beer), ubiquitous wine (relatively rare compared to beer), horses for war with armored troops prior to about 600 AD, no use of chariots in ancient warfare, lack of understanding of ancient warfare and military organization, marriage as an institution in the ancient world, and many many many more. Generally, the use of inappropriate technology in ancient cultures.

If you want to write about history, make sure you understand the history you are writing about--that's the bottom line.
I'll write more about ancient history and expertise tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Topics in Writing

2012-01-25T06:26:00.001-06:00

25 January 2012, Publication - Topics in Writing

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

This is a short segway on expertise and topics. I've read many novels where the writer didn't have a clue on their topic. You might be able to fool some people, but you won't be able to fool those who have much knowledge of the subject. The worst I've seen is those who write about flying. This is why I should probably write some novels about flying. I haven't, but I should. On the other hand, I have become (or am) an expert in the topics I cover in my novels. To be able to write The Second Mission, I spent two years studying ancient Greece. I read every extant work I could find from the period. I read the major histories on Greece and ancient Greek culture. I'm still learning and reading.

To write my science fiction, The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox, I studied engineering and Anglo Saxon culture. I loosely based the culture of these novels on Anglo Saxon culture. It helps that I had already spent years in reading and study of this culture. The science in my science fiction novels is accurate and believable because I'm an engineer. Additionally, in these books, I predicted and described the electronic book over 20 years before they existed.

Likewise, to write Centurion, I studied translated Latin documents and ancient Greek documents for over two years before I began to write. Centuruion represents the most accurate compendium of information we have about the training and organizational methods of the Roman Legion in the first century. I accomplished a similar level of study before I wrote Aegypt. For example, I read every primary degree source available on ancient Egyptian culture and literature (The Book of the Dead, etc.).

If you want to write a good novel, you must be an expert in your topic. Don't even consider writing until you have some level of expertise and experience. I'll give you concrete examples of how many authors go wrong especially about ancient history.

I'll write more about ancient history and expertise tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - even more on Speaking and Teaching

2012-01-24T06:27:00.001-06:00

24 January 2012, Publication - even more on Speaking and Teaching

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

The point is, that to be able to promote your novels, you need to promote the topics within your novels. People seldom are interested in your novel itself (unless you are a best seller). People are instead interested in the topics of your novels and specifically in your expertise in these topics. For example, topics of interest from the novel Aksinya are demons, magic, Bolshevik Russia, WWI, European aristocracy among others. There are many secondary topics in the novel as well.

The secondary topics can be very excellent sources for teaching and talks, for example, the theme of your novel or a location from your novel. I haven't taught these as much, but I did teach a semester's worth of classes on future technology based from my science fiction novels. That is a problem with science fiction novels--they generally aren't as topical as historical novels.

So, have you caught the theme to be effective? For interviews, teaching, or speaking, you need to focus on a topic from your novel(s). People want to learn from your expertise. Now here is an important question, what if you don't have any expertise in the topics of your novel(s)? The answer is simple, you shouldn't have written the novel. Why would anyone read a novel from a writer who doesn't intimately understand the topic of their novel(s). This is an important subject that deserves some discussion.

I'll write more about topics and expertise tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - even more Speaking and Teaching

2012-01-23T06:26:00.001-06:00

23 January 2012, Publication - even more Speaking and Teaching

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

Since most of my writing is historical fiction, I have a multitude of topics available to me to teach. Teaching is what I do. I have been a teacher for the Air Force Institute of Technology. I also have been a military aircraft instructor. I teach classes now for different organizations for three reasons: to keep in practice, because people like my teaching, and to get out information on my novels. The main purpose in the teaching isn't necessarily the sale of copy, but it helps to build a basis for your public credibility in the topic. I'm a test pilot and an aerospace engineer by trade and education, but I also have skills and knowledge outside these fields. My studies have been primarily culture and linguistics. This is what I generally write about in history.

I do mostly ancient languages. The basis of my novel, Aegypt is Egyptian hieroglyphics and ancient Egyptian as well as Tunisian and French Tunisian culture in the 1920s. I interweave the intricacies of the language and cultures and especially the collision of cultures and languages. This is the focus and usually a major theme in my writing. I speak on these topics. My novel The Second Mission is about Greece in 400 to 399 BCE. You can see the numerous topics available to me to speak and teach about.

So I get numerous requests to teach and speak about ancient Greece and ancient Egypt. I take the opportunity to tell my audiences that my novels are about these topics and that they are a fun way to learn more about the subject.

I'll write more about speaking and teaching tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - more Speaking and Teaching

2012-01-22T06:23:00.001-06:00

22 January 2012, Publication - more Speaking and Teaching

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - Speaking and Teaching

2012-01-21T06:25:00.001-06:00

21 January 2012, Publication - Speaking and Teaching

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

One of the best and most effective means to get out information about your writing and to sell your novels is through speaking and teaching. You need to prep for this. You need to be ready mentally and with material. The most obvious material preparation is you need to have plenty of copies of your book to sell. Any time you speak or teach, bring copies of your books and offer to sell them. Second, you need to be able to actually sell your books. You need the ability to sell your books and that means you need to be able to pay state taxes. You can either get a license to sell, or if you have a friend with a license you can pay them. The point is that you need to work this out.

Third, it isn't wise to under cut your publisher by much, but you should obviously make it advantageous for people to buy from you. What I do is to charge one price for all the books. My price is $15 per book. I also offer a discount for the purchase of three books of $40. Since I have three historical fiction novels and three science fiction novels, this makes a lot of sense. I also pay the taxes from the total cost. So basically, the cost of my books including tax is $15. This way I make it simple for change and for sales.

I'll write more about speaking and teaching tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Your Press Release Content

2012-01-20T06:25:00.001-06:00

20 January 2012, Publication - Your Press Release Content

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Title: Aegypt

Author: L.D. Alford

ISBN: 1602900132

ISBN-13: 9781602900134

Format: Paperback, 232pp

Publisher: OakTara Publishing Group LLC

Pub. Date: January 2008

This information allows someone to find your novel! That's why it is so important. Second, you need to have a short synopsis and teasers. That's the information we created for your novel a while ago. Third, you need information on the author. That's the information we created before as well. Finally, if you aren't an indi, you want information about the publisher. If you are an indi, that's optional.

If you are writing a press release for something other than the release of a book, then remember topic. For example, if you have a novel about the Berlin Wall, any news about the Berlin Wall is a reason to put out a press release. You might have a press release that announces the recognition of some event for the Berlin Wall and state that your novel is related to that topic. This gives you an opportunity to get out information on your novel and to potentially score other interviews.

The use of a press release is to get information to the media. Sometimes they work and sometimes they don't. Your only hope is to keep trying and keep the information (especially topical) out about your books.
I'll write about speaking and teaching tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Your Press Releases

2012-01-19T06:28:00.000-06:00

19 January 2012, Publication - Your Press Releases

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

You don't have to wait for your publisher to make a press release for you. This is very important for indi writers and for other advertising. There are a host of websites where you can put out free press releases. I used to have them all in my computer, but I had a reinstall and lost them. In any case, a little searching around the Internet will find these places to put out your press releases.

How good of advertising does a press release give you? Not that much. As I've mentioned over and over, most news and interest is topical and not on novels. Unless you are a best seller, and even then you have to be a million book seller, you won't get much, if any, attention for your novels. Local press will usually give you some play; however, if you have a large newspaper in your city, they'll usually ignore you. For some reason I can't fathom, the press is usually not willing to support other writers. They'll give copy to one of their own who self produces and vanity publishes, but they will totally ignore a successful writer in their midst. In fact, most large press newspapers will take the NY Times book page and reproduce it and never give a single letter to local authors (unless they are in the NYT book page). They ignored a great author here until she won the Caldecott.

I'll write about what to put in a press release tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Press Releases

2012-01-18T06:25:00.001-06:00

18 January 2012, Publication - Press Releases

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - Blog Tours

2012-01-17T06:29:00.001-06:00

17 January 2012, Publication - Blog Tours

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - more on Trailers

2012-01-16T06:21:00.001-06:00

16 January 2012, Publication - more on Trailers

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

You can be interviewed for print media, for radio, for TV, on blogs, Internet general, character interviews, trailers just to name a few.

I already wrote about trailers before, but these interview trailers are both unique and different than the normal trailers you make for your novel. In general, they tend to be less formal. This is because you are answering questions rather than just giving information. Like I mentioned, you want to have an interviewer. An interviewer gives the impression of personal contact. So your interview trailer should be warm and if possible personal. I wish I had an example to point you to, but I don't. I can only point you to my very simple book trailers as examples of middle of the road trailers and tell you that your interview trailer should have a different feel.

In a book trailer, you want to connect your book to your potential readers. In an interview trailer, you want to connect yourself, to a degree, with your readers. You want them to get excited about your novel because you are excited about it. In a book trailer, it doesn't matter if you are in the trailer at all, but in an interview trailer, you, the author have to make an appearance. You are selling yourself as an author as well as your novel.
I'll move on to blog tours tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Trailers

2012-01-15T06:23:00.001-06:00

15 January 2012, Publication - Trailers

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

You can be interviewed for print media, for radio, for TV, on blogs, Internet general, character interviews, trailers just to name a few.

I also put trailers under their own category, so I'll keep my comments limited today to interview trailers. This is a great idea and a great way to get information out on your book. The only reason I haven't done an interview trailer for each of my books is I'm spending all my time writing these blogs. Okay, that isn't the only reason. I have this job and stuff...

Interview trailers are a fantastic way to promote your writing. First you need to tape an interview. Set up any modern camera (they almost all record digitally), and get your friend to ask you typical interview questions:

1. Introduce yourself.
2. Introduce your book.
3. What made you write your book?
4. What do you want people to get out of your book?
5. What makes your book better than all the other choices people have?
6. What are you writing now?
7. What can we expect in the future from you?

These are just examples. If you have to make a script and use a computer to feed the script to you. Use your acting skills. Act excited. Give your novel a great promotion. When you have recorded to your satisfaction, either edit it or distribute it.

Editing it is easier than you might think. There are programs out there that allow you to edit taped files. About five minutes is long enough. Longer and you'll bore people. Shorter..is just shorter. Once you've edited it, distribute it.

The distribution process is easy. U-tube is the most well known and the best, but you can put these short trailers everywhere--including in blogs. You publisher might put them on their site.

There is much more to this subject. I'll give more details on interview trailers tomorrow.
I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Character Interviews

2012-01-14T06:27:00.001-06:00

14 January 2012, Publication - Character Interviews

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

You can be interviewed for print media, for radio, for TV, on blogs, Internet general, character interviews, trailers just to name a few.

I've thought about them a lot, but I haven't done one yet--that is a character interview. These are really popular and a means to get more interest in your writing and novels. They are interviews you make up with the characters from your books. Obviously, these are fictional interviews made with your fictional characters. They can be engaging and they can excite interest in your works. Mainly, they make great blog fodder and can be added to your secrets pages.

The main question is what questions should you ask (answer) with your characters. There are two ways to go here. You can ask questions similar to those you might use when developing a character, or you can use questions you might use when interviewing a person. I suggest the latter. So, the kind of questions you might ask:

1. Tell us about your early life?
2. What made you choose your occupation?
3. Why did you move to your current location?
4. What are your interests outside of work?
6. What do you intend to do in the future?

That's a good beginning and covers the gamut of a character from the beginning to the future. That's the great thing about these interviews, you can make up your questions.
We'll move on to trailers, tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - General Internet Interviews Information

2012-01-13T06:29:00.003-06:00

13 January 2012, Publication - General Internet Interviews Information

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

You can be interviewed for print media, for radio, for TV, on blogs, Internet general, character interviews, trailers just to name a few.

Before we move on to character interviews, let's get a little into the information you should provide to the sites I mentioned yesterday. Do you remember the advertising information I developed for Aksinya? It included an author bio, a long and short synopsis of the novel, teasers, and other information. These provide a wealth of information for me to draw from to describe myself and my novel. When you create it for your novel, it becomes a wealth of information about you and your novel. Use this information. If you want details look back through these blog entries for the information to put together for a new novel. You can use this information to advertise and sell your novel anywhere--that's why I put it together immediately after the novel is finished. Remember, the first job is to sell your novel to a publisher.

Also, to repeat the point, in every sense, in talking about interviews and interview questions about your book, the source of primeval information is the synopsis and author bio you created at the beginning. That's why those are so important. They keep you on track and they keep your information on your novel on track. I will repeat, but I can't emphasize much more how important this information is. So, once you are done writing the novel, it is time to write this information on your novel.

We'll move on to character interviews, tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - General Internet Interviews Places

2012-01-12T06:20:00.001-06:00

12 January 2012, Publication - General Internet Interviews Places

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - General Internet Interviews

2012-01-11T06:24:00.001-06:00

11 January 2012, Publication - General Internet Interviews

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - Blog Interviews Content

2012-01-10T06:23:00.001-06:00

10 January 2012, Publication - Blog Interviews Content

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

You can be interviewed for print media, for radio, for TV, on blogs, Internet general, character interviews, trailers just to name a few.

There is an implied question about the content of a blog interview--that is, just answering the questions isn't enough. I probably don't need to tell many writers this, but the concept of answering questions is to do it in a very constructive and artful way. You also want to ensure you write the answer in your voice. The point is to get across your skill and your style and excite your potential readers. Again, I'll point to the blog interview I did on my novel Centurion for Lynnette Bonner. You can see it at http://lynnettebonner.blogspot.com/2010/08/lionel-alford-talks-about-his-book.html.

Overall, this is the point I'm making in terms of all your writing about your own book, you want to convince and excite potential readers to pick up and read your novel. There really isn't any other purpose. If you aren't excited about your novel, no one else should be either. Anything you are excited about, you will talk about and try to get others excited about too.

This is what bothers me about authors who say they aren't interested in promoting their own works. I can understand not really wishing to sell your own works, but the idea that someone isn't interested in promoting their created art, is beyond me. Writers want other people to read their writing and to appreciate it. That is the point of writing (a communication tool).
Let's move on to general Internet interviews, tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Blog Interviews

2012-01-09T06:29:00.001-06:00

9 January 2012, Publication - Blog Interviews
Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

You can be interviewed for print media, for radio, for TV, on blogs, Internet general, character interviews, trailers just to name a few.

With blog interviews we are moving to a more controllable media (by the author). In general, many blogs wish to interview authors--the opportunities are almost endless. To get together with those opportunities, you need to connect with blogs on books and writing. You also can usually find authors with your publisher who want to do blog interviews. These work one of two ways. The easiest is that the blogger simply asks you to answer a very simple question (or two). Usually the questions are: describe why you wrote your novel and how did it get published. These are the most common types of questions. I did a blog interview like this about a year ago on my novel Centurion for Lynnette Bonner. You can see it at http://lynnettebonner.blogspot.com/2010/08/lionel-alford-talks-about-his-book.html. I should do many more of these, but I just haven't taken the time.

The other type of blog interview is where the interviewer gives you a list of questions to answer for the blog post. This is simple too, just answer the questions. In each case, the less structured or the more structured interview, just answer the questions and send them back to the blogger. You might want to send some pictures illustrating your novel and your picture. If you don't, the blogger will usually get your picture and novel cover picture from one of your sites (or amazon).

Let's move on to the content of blog interviews, tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - TV Interviews Questions

2012-01-08T06:29:00.001-06:00

8 January 2012, Publication - TV Interviews Questions

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5.  Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

You can be interviewed for print media, for radio, for TV, on blogs, Internet general, character interviews, trailers just to name a few.

In any interview, but especially in video interviews, keep the focus on the topic, and try to draw your novel into the topic. In point of fact, since your novel covers the topic, there is no reason to not bring it up.  For example, if your novel is about demons, bring up examples from your writing about demons. If magic plays a part in the novel, use examples from your writing that draw attention to magic. Make your answers coherent and tight, however, if the interview is prerecorded, then you can make the answers as long as you wish--they will edit them anyway.

So what might you try to defuse or at least keep away from during an interview?  Before the interview, imagine the worst kind of question or situation your interviewer could ask you. For example, I want to be perceived as a writer who appeals to all audiences. I write books with powerful redemptive themes, but that are not considered Christian mainstream fiction. I don't want to hurt my appeal as a novelist to either Christians or non Christians. That doesn't mean I won't or don't stand on principle or hold to strong ethical values--it just means that I don't want to be pigeonholed as a specific type of author. I try to imagine the kinds of questions I might be asked and develop answers that get across the appeal of my novels.

Let's move on to blog interviews, tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - TV Interviews Demeanor

2012-01-07T06:20:00.010-06:00

7 January 2012, Publication - TV Interviews Demeanor

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. Book trailers
15. ...

You can be interviewed for print media, for radio, for TV, on blogs, Internet general, character interviews, trailers just to name a few.

Television is a visual media and much media is moving toward the visual arena (look a U-Tube, book trailers, etc.). More important than dress (I can dress up anyone to look good--just look at mass murderers during their trial) is demeanor, that is, how you present yourself. Of course, dress is an important part of this, but it is only a small part. You've noted people in shirt sleeves who with a single word took over the attention of a room. You've likely also noted a well dressed and handsome person who shut down a conversation the moment they opened their mouth. My intent isn't to make you into something or someone you aren't, but rather to accentuate your positives and skills. Additionally, you might want to change some bad or adverse habits to become a more personable person.

What is a personable person with a good demeanor. That is a person who has a pleasant appearance. Dress, hygiene, fitness, all these play into a pleasant appearance. You need to have an engaging smile and personality. Practice smiling. Have an upbeat attitude. Don't interrupt too much (a little interruption is okay, but a person who constantly interrupts is a bore). Don't hog conversations. Be engaging. Introduce yourself to others. Speak to people you don't know. Have a grasp of the important.

I'll discuss things to be cautious of in interviews and conversations, tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - TV Interviews Dress

2012-01-06T06:24:00.003-06:00

6 January 2012, Publication - TV Interviews Dress

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. ...

You can be interviewed for print media, for radio, for TV, on blogs, Internet general, character interviews, trailers just to name a few.

Television is a visual media, but all media are partially dependent on visual impressions, and media is moving more and more toward the visual. The evidence of this is in facebook or other social media where pictures are become as ubiquitous as text. You must keep this in mind whenever and where ever you are. If you want to be respected as a writer, you need to portray the appearance and demeanor of a writer. This means, generally, looking like a writer for your topic area.

Your demeanor and your appearance are especially important for television. Makeup is necessary and usually, the station will provide makeup. Micing is a very important subject that we will address at some point. The station will adequately mic you. However, you are in charge of your clothing and your demeanor. Clothing and demeanor are critical. I discussed clothing yesterday. You need to match your clothing to your style and topic. If you don't have any style--then get an opinion. Dressed for success is a great place to start. Don't use the opinion of your family unless they are professionally involved in some aspect of visual media.

Demeanor is as important as clothing. You don't want to come across as arrogant, but you want to be seen as an expert. You don't want to give the impression you know it all, but you want to leave an impression of knowledge. You don't want to to be thought of as odd or weird, but you want to leave an idea of unique and special. You achieve this through your approach to your subject and your demeanor. Your audience will give you the benefit of the doubt if you appear up front like you know something (that you fit into their impression of a writer). So, that closes the loop. You want to dress like your subject area.

I'll get into more details on demeanor, tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - TV Interviews

2012-01-05T06:21:00.003-06:00

5 January 2012, Publication - TV Interviews

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. Book signings.
14. ...

You can be interviewed for print media, for radio, for TV, on blogs, Internet general, character interviews, trailers just to name a few.

Television interviews are similar to radio interviews. They are, however, more difficult to get. As always, and especially with television, you will not usually be interviewed because of your novel--it will be the topic of your novel that is the focus. You do have to worry with a television interview about how you appear. So although this information applies mainly to television interviews, it also applies any time you interact with the public.

Appearance matters, and it matters more to authors than to many other fields. You want to portray yourself to fit in the genre and your area of expertise. This also applies to your pictures. If your topic is studious and intellectual, you want to portray that. When I speak and interview for my historical fiction, I try to give an appearance of a professor. This is easy because I have been a professor and instructor for a long time. When I interview or speak about these books, I wear a coat and gussy up a bit. Not too much, I wouldn't wear a coat and tie, but enough so the audience sees me as an academician.

If you are a YA (young adult) writer, you want to have the appearance that you are somewhat connected to YA. You should wear something stylish that fits with that crowd. A suit and tie would be out of place.

A suit and tie would be very appropriate if you are a business writer or if you are writing about a business subject. If you are a preacher or a priest and your writing is topical on these subjects, you might want to wear a collar or a suit. You get the idea--you should portray your focus topic in your dress and your demeanor.

I'll get into more details on dress and demeanor, tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Radio Interview dangerous Questions

2012-01-04T06:26:00.001-06:00

4 January 2012, Publication - Radio Interview dangerous Questions

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. ...

You can be interviewed for print media, for radio, for TV, on blogs, Internet general, character interviews, trailers just to name a few.

You never want to prepare, suggest, or try to answer questions like this:

1. Ones that take more than a short paragraph to answer.
2. Ones that have really complex answers.
3. Ones that take a special level of education or training to answer.
4. Ones that are purely opinion based.
5. Ones that are controversial.

Here are examples of these types of questions:
1. Complex and long: What is the theme of your novel? (This is not a bad question if you can answer it in a couple of sentences. Most people can't and many authors haven't thought about it).
2. Controversial: Is your main character homosexual? (Unless your main character is homosexual, this is a trick question).
3. Special level of understanding: How does the end of the age of enlightenment fit with the theme of your novel? (Unless this is a major topic of your novel).

Do you get the idea? If you can intelligently answer these questions with just a couple of sentences, you may answer them. On the other hand, if you can't the best thing to do it turn a difficult question back to the novel. In terms of these questions, you don't really want to answer theme questions--unless you've really thought about it. You should think about it. Turn this type of question back to the plot. For controversial questions, turn them back to the novel. For example, with a controversial question about the main character, either say straight out--the character isn't a homosexual, or leave it ambivalent with, you'll just have to read the novel and figure that out for yourself. For a very complex question, try to use the context to point back to your novel. There is always more, but we need to move on.

Tomorrow, television interviews.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Radio Interview Questions

2012-01-03T06:20:00.000-06:00

3 January 2012, Publication - Radio Interview Questions

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - even more Radio Interviews

2012-01-02T06:21:00.001-06:00

2 January 2012, Publication - even more Radio Interviews

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5.  Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. ...

You can be interviewed for print media, for radio, for TV, on blogs, Internet general, character interviews, trailers just to name a few.

The two types of interviews for the radio are phone and station. In a station interview, you go to the radio station and either record or do a live on air interview. In a phone interview, you call the station and accomplish a live or air interview. Sometimes the interviewer will give you a list of questions. Sometimes, they will ask for a list of questions from you.  The best approach is to send the interviewer a list of suggested questions. For a novel, here are some great interview questions:

1. Why did you write this novel?
2.  How did you research your subject?
3. Who is your main character?
4. What is your main character like?
5. Are you like your main character?
6. What is your next book?
7. Will you read us a short selection from your novel?

To prepare for any interview--be able to answer these kinds of questions. Prepare a short and I mean short selection and practice it. If you don't, you'll sound like a dork. It is always a good idea to have a selection of your writing ready to read. People always (for interviews) like to hear an author read from their works.

I'll tell you next questions not to use--ever.
I give you more ideas on radio interviews tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - more Radio Interviews

2012-01-01T06:24:00.001-06:00

1 January 2012, Publication - more Radio Interviews

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - Radio Interviews

2011-12-31T06:26:00.002-06:00

31 December 2011, Publication - Radio Interviews

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - more Print Interviews

2011-12-30T06:25:00.001-06:00

30 December 2011, Publication - more Print Interviews

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. ...

You can be interviewed for print media, for radio, for TV, on blogs, Internet general, character interviews, trailers just to name a few.

So, for any interview, how do you keep the interviewer on topic (that is your book). Your interview should focus on "Why you wrote the book." That's all there is to it. If every question and every answer comes back to this specific point, you win. With this answer, you will be able to answer the interviewer's questions and, at the same time, get out information on your book. You might want to prep this specific question and answer before your interview.

Just answer this question "Why did you write the book." Encapsulated in this question (and its answer) is every single important point an interviewer can ask. You can also turn every question into an answer that is based on this. For example, let's say you wrote a novel about the civil war. Any question the interviewer asks can be answered, "I wrote this novel to answer that question for myself," then you can expand. Don't expand too much. Give the interviewer a few choice quotations that come from your novel or that about your novel. You can also use the teasers that you developed for marketing your novel as the basis for your interview questions.

So remember, keep on topic and try to get a word in about your novel. I give you more ideas on this tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Print Interviews

2011-12-29T06:24:00.000-06:00

29 December 2011, Publication - Print Interviews

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - Interviews

2011-12-28T06:20:00.001-06:00

28 December 2011, Publication - Interviews
Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - Contests

2011-12-27T06:24:00.001-06:00

27 December 2011, Publication - Contests

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - Postcards

2011-12-26T06:28:00.001-06:00

26 December 2011, Publication - Cards

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - Book Marks

2011-12-25T06:20:00.003-06:00

25 December 2011, Publication - Book Marks
Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. Gifts.
13. ...

Merry Christmas! I hope you have a wonderful season, and I hope you win over a publisher for your book and sell a million copies. Me too. I hope this blog will help you get closer to your goals.

One way to make more book sales is proper advertising. I'm lumping anything you can print at home for advertising under book cards--so in that mix comes book marks. Book marks are, well, book marks. I found a great funeral supply online store that provides book marks in various paper styles ready for printing. They aren't a very great laser cut, so I have to use a paper cutter, but they are better than nothing.

I produce a different book mark for each book. When I sell books, I give out book marks with each book I sell. When I sell books, the book marks augment the book cards. People who love books can't pass by a book mark without taking one. Just like when you design a book card, with a book mark, focus on the cover of your book. Make that the top of the book mark. With a book mark you definitely have more room to put a few teasers about your book and don't forget the book information (ISBN etc.).

I make them simple, but you can make book marks with plastic covers and ribbons etc. etc. The point is to make more money and not less, so you don't need to spend a lot to make a great book mark.

I'll tell you about similar types of advertising tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Using Book Cards

2011-12-24T06:21:00.002-06:00

24 December 2011, Publication - Using Book Cards

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Publication - Book Cards

2011-12-23T06:27:00.000-06:00

23 December 2011, Publication - Book Cards
Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

Under the idea/concept of book cards, I include anything the author (or anyone else) produces on paper as a giveaway to advertise your novel. In this category are book cards, book marks, brochures, advertisement cards, etc. etc.

Book cards are the simplest--let's tackle them first. A book card is a regular calling card that you carry in your wallet/pocket/purse to give to people who are interested in your book(s). A book card should include a picture of your cover, the title of your novel, your name, your novel's website, your website, and potentially, your email address. Perhaps this is a good time to talk about email addresses. You do know you can have as many free email addresses as you wish, If you are worried about giving out your primary email, just get another one to put on your book cards.

I'll tell you what to do with book cards tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Literary Awards

2011-12-22T06:22:00.001-06:00

22 December 2011, Publication - Literary Awards

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

Anything that sets your novel apart from the crowd is good. However, you need to understand that with the Internet and indie writing numerous organizations and literary awards have appeared. The number of categories and types of awards is amazing--almost enough so every newly published novel could win one. Ah, there's the rub, if everyone can win one, what's the point--well, to set your novel apart. Still, to apply for one of these awards, you have to send in $50 to $100 and a copy of your novel. You don't get any money if you win.

I think that most of these are setups. I don't apply and unless my publisher recommends one to me, I doubt I will apply. I have applied twice to a literary award in the past, I spent my money and sent in a copy of the book and received my certificate of participation. I know awards are given, but again, I'm not certain of their value, their meaning, or their selection process.

I think for the high level awards, your novel must be recommended to the selection board. You don't pay any money, and If you win, it really means something.
I'm not sure there is much more to be said about literary awards. We'll look at Book Cards tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

2011-12-21T06:25:00.001-06:00

21 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Follow-Through

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

The point of Internet advertising is to get someone to come to your website--there you can seduce them with your book. That's the whole reason for the advertising, and this applies to the indie as well as the regular published.

Therefore, your website needs to seduce them to want your novel. You need to encourage them to want to read your book. The first step is getting them to your website, the second is getting them to stay long enough to, third, go to a bookseller where they can buy your book.

You can see what you need to do. First, your website needs to be clear and clean. It needs to not be ambiguous. You need to clearly and specifically tell your visitors about your book in words that will interest and draw them to explore further. You need to have pictures of the cover and information on the book. I could go on and on about website development, but I'm not an expert--I just have made a lot. Look at any of my novel websites for an example of how I make a website for a novel. Look at www.AegyptNovel.com.

Second, you need to get them to stick around on the site long enough to want to buy your novel. I think a crisp and clean site with strong content is about the best you can do. Give them the four buttons (described before) and give them those marketing teasers you developed.

Third, point them to booksellers. Give them a choice. I put some links, and I put Amazon widgets on my websites.

There is so much more on advertising, but we need to move on. We'll look at Literary Awards tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - just Advertising

2011-12-20T06:29:00.002-06:00

20 December 2011, Publication - just Advertising

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

Advertising is the point of all of this. You can actively advertise your books without incurring high costs.

Much advertising is accomplished by your publisher. You don't see the work. You usually only see the results. Your publisher promotes your book on their websites, at book fairs and conferences, at book sellers, to bookstore, to Internet sellers, to distributors, etc. This is critical advertising and gets your works in front of people. It makes your work available to readers, but usually doesn't result in much advertising.

Advertising is not just getting your works to a potential place of sale. Advertising is the actual promotion of your work. In this, your publisher can help and does promote your work, but anything beyond this is really your responsibility.

Luckily, advertising can be easily and cheaply done through the Internet. Two very popular and great sources are facebook and google. A facebook ad is simple to make and manage. It is relatively inexpensive because you only pay for clicks. If someone doesn't click your ad (to go to your website), you don't get charged. The cost is about $1 per click and you can set a limit of clicks per day. This means you can control your costs and keep them low.

How successful is a facebook or a google ad? I'm not sure. I haven't seen a huge uptick in sales although, I have seen a slight uptick in visits to my websites. I think this is a direct reflection of the advertising. This specific Internet advertising is a great means of getting information out about your books.

I'll write about other types of advertising tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Ideas, Blogging the Point

2011-12-19T06:23:00.001-06:00

19 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Ideas, Blogging the Point
Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

So, the point of blogging is to get your ideas into the wild and to show off your writing. You want to build readership and expand the network of those who read and are interested in your writing. This helps you, your novels, and your publisher. About how to really expand your network and your blog readers--I'm just figuring that out. I'm not certain if that result is time based or effort based. In other words, does it really help to go to many other blogs and become an item across the blogosphere or does time and longevity build your readership better? Perhaps a mix between the two?

My problem is that I don't have time to go looking too much. I work a full time job and write and blog--among other things. Blogging can't become my life, but I do hope I touch others with my blogging. Just as I hope I touch others with my writing.

If you write, blogging is a great idea. Make sure you keep writing.

I'll move over to advertising tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Ideas, Blogging Reasons

2011-12-18T06:28:00.002-06:00

18 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Ideas, Blogging Reasons

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

In the process of blogging, I don't have anything to prove, and I don't have anyone to impress. I'd like to simply communicate and share ideas on writing. In general, I haven't found blogging to be much of a give and take process. I wish it were more like that, but I don't mind. I'm certain there are many smart people and ideas out there, but I think they are all blogging too. That is, those with competing ideas are all involved with providing those ideas through their blogs, or they are selling them. I suppose I could write another book and sell it, but I'm more interested in writing fiction. I'm also more interested in helping authors improve their writing.

Let's face facts, we all can improve our writing skills, and I don't mean spelling and grammar--I mean the true skills that make terrific writing. I'm happy that I can use this blog to improve my own skills and the skills of others.

Let's go a little further, any author who doesn't realize their writing can be improved is a fool. This is simply the demarcation between a professional and an amateur. The amateur is not confident in his own writing and is afraid and unwilling to have another criticize it. The professional begs for feedback. The professional desires criticism and sees all of it as constructive. Again, I'm not talking about grammar and spelling. Grammar and spelling are skills that writers must have as a basic skill--these are the simple problems that editors and editing can easily repair. The skills that authors really need are those that come long after basic grammar and spelling have been conquered. Those skills are the development of a good theme, plot, and storyline. Further, the development of a world that entrances your readers is the extended skill of a great writer. This is truly what we, as writers, should all aspire to.

I'll write more about blogging tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Ideas, Blogging Value

2011-12-17T06:23:00.004-06:00

17 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Ideas, Blogging Value

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

My chief purpose in blogging is every day to give something of value to my readers and visitors. I'm trying to be informative and share ideas with the writing and reading community. Most of these ideas and this information comes from my experience as a writer. Some of it is unique but much of it is common knowledge gleaned through experience and working with others.

The world today offers wonderfully greater information and available knowledge than any time in the past. The fact that a simple search of the Internet can bring up disparate information and sources on a single topic is astounding. The ability to check this information and the sources is very powerful too. As I tell my students all the time, don't trust anyone's teaching or information until you check it out yourself. If the teaching or information makes sense and can be validated to a reasonable degree, the data is good--use it. If the opposite is true, don't trust it.

For my engineering students, I call this type of validation your spidey sense. In engineering science, most everything is cut and dried--you can prove it beyond a shadow of a doubt. A good engineer needs to recognize when the decimal point is off a magnitude, or when the equation is off, or when their conclusions are not supported by their data. That's the point of engineering after all and an error can result in people's deaths.

Writing is similar (not in terms of death), but remember, your readers all have their spidey sense going all the time. They are looking for everything in your finely crafted world to make sense. If it doesn't, they are out of your world and back to the world of their own. So, in your blog and in your writing, give value and make certain you are correct--your readers will stick with you.

I'll write more about blogging tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Ideas, Blogging Topics

2011-12-16T06:23:00.001-06:00

16 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Ideas, Blogging Topics

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

Blogging is a great exercise in writing as well as a great means to communicate your ideas to the world. The problem with any exercise or responsibility you take on is you need to continue what you start. So, if you want to blog, be ready to blog for a long time. If you think of it as an exercise in writing (that was my point before) then blogging becomes a method for self improvement as well as a means of communication (point two).

The biggest problem for many bloggers is subject matter--you gotta have something to write about every day. To me, this is part of the exercise. I really don't have much difficulty coming up with something to write about every day. I do try to be cohesive and keep to a theme--perhaps that is why finding subject matter isn't so difficult.

To be cohesive and to produce good topics to write about, keep some kind of theme going. The blog won't blog itself, but it will be much easier than something entirely new and unconnected everyday.
I'll write more about blogging tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Ideas, more Blogging

2011-12-15T06:25:00.002-06:00

15 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Ideas, more Blogging

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

The more you blog, the more potential attention you will receive for your blogs. One a day seems to be a reasonable maximum. One a week seems to be a reasonable minimum. Most readers are looking for continuity in ideas, familiar concepts, and reliable delivery. It's kind of like your newspaper--when you can't find it on your driveway in the morning, you get irritated. Or, for the non-newspaper crowd, it's like your favorite Internet news site--you expect new news every day. When you don't get the new news every day, you are unhappy.

You want to make your readers happy (that's one of my rules for writing--entertain your readers). The same is true for a blog. I'll admit, I don't do as good a job as I should--I could do better. I could put in pictures to illustrate my points and give links all over the place. The problem is that I don't have time. If I didn't work a job full time, and I wasn't trying to write novel number 22, and I wasn't a businessman with business and life to take care of, I could give more to this blog and to you. As it is, I come home very late some days, relax for about 15 minutes, get a glass of wine, then produce three blogs. This is the first--its focus is mainly on the elements of publishing and marketing. The second is a repost that still requires reformatting and editing http://www.ldalford.wordpress.com/. The third is another blog on writing that tackles specifics of the skill of writing novels in scenes http://www.novelscene.wordpress.com/. I try to make it short and sweet.

I'll write more about blogging tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Ideas, Blogging

2011-12-14T06:28:00.004-06:00

14 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Ideas, Blogging

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

My publisher recommended to all their authors to blog. So, I blog. I would blog anyway. I already did blog before my publisher asked all their writers to blog. My aviation blog can be found on my author http://www.ldalford.com/ and professional http://www.lionelalford.com/ websites and you can also get to it from http://www.wingsoverkansas.com/. I also blogged on writing. You can find that on my writing secrets page at my author website.

I blog about writing. I guess I know something about writing. I have 21 written novels and 6 published novels. I have over 40 professional technical articles in in international press. I write professionally for my work and professionally about my novels. I know something about writing, so I blog about writing. I hope my blogging can help you become a better writer. At least I can help you make fewer mistakes than I have.

I'll write more about blogging tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Ideas, Websites Secrets and Conclusions

2011-12-13T06:21:00.002-06:00

13 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Ideas, Websites Secrets and Conclusions

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

I already wrote extensively on the information I recommend for your novels' webpages. I'll give the short version again, and you can look back at the earlier blog entries for more details.

I always include a sample of the first chapter. I put up the official cover. I link to the official press release for the novel. Finally, I put up a link to the novel's secret page(s). The cover and the press release come from your publisher. They represent the novel to the press. The first chapter allows a visitor to sample the novel and decide if they want to go buy it. The secret pages give more information for your readers. Secret pages also give you more hits on your novel page.

So remember, the key point for a novel webpage is to market your novel. Your audience is readers and the press. You need to have a little for everyone. Make certain the visitors can find your novel from the information and links on the page. Link to places that sell your book. Include information about you. That's about all (in a nutshell) for webpages.

I'll write about blogging tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Ideas, Websites Linking

2011-12-12T06:23:00.000-06:00

12 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Ideas, Websites Linking
Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

The other information you want on the novel's website is where to find it and reviews. In most cases, the where to find and buy it is the same as the reviews. For example, http://www.amazon.com/ has the where, the purchasing, and the reviews. You should put in a link directly to your novel page to the Amazon page for your book. The way to do this is simple. Just cut and paste the book page address from Amazon to your novel page. It looks something like this: http://www.amazon.com/Aegypt-L-D-Alford/dp/1602900132/ref=sr_1_9?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1282061441&sr=1-9#_ This is the address for my book Aegypt on Amazon. You use the linking and link functions or selections in your webpage editor to make the links have a more simple address.

You can link to all the other sellers of your novel. I used Amazon as an example because it is the most well known and convenient. You can and should link to all the major sellers such as B&N, etc. In addition to linking to the websites, you can also increase your income through certain type of links.

I'll discuss more about websites tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Ideas, Websites Details

2011-12-11T06:26:00.001-06:00

11 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Ideas, Websites Details

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

The main focus of a novel webpage is the novel itself. Therefore, you need a picture of the cover. Along with the cover information, you need to list the basic informaiton about the novel. You can see this informaiton on any book seller's site. Just look for the ISBN, extended ISBN, publisher, publishing date, price, etc. This is the basic type of information you need to put on your book page.

If you remember the marketing materials I developed for Aksinya, this is the kind of information you need to put on the novel website. Include the synopsis, teasers, and author information. Of course, you should also put up a picture of the author.
I'll discuss more about websites tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Ideas, Websites Basics

2011-12-10T06:24:00.001-06:00

10 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Ideas, Websites Basics
Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

With most webpage editors, you simply make the pages look the way you want them to in the editor, then you save them to the folder for the URL (.com) at your host site. Most webpage editors do the saving automatically into the proper location. You can insert pictures, video, sounds, music, documents, etc. etc. into the webpage. In most cases, you need to also save these files to the host site. The reason for this is you don' want a broken link.

From your index.htm (main page), you can call (link) as many pages as you wish. Each webpage editor makes these links a little differently, but usually they are as simple as typing the link into your site. There are many other features and things you can put on your webpages.

I'll discuss more about websites tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Ideas, Websites Setup

2011-12-09T06:27:00.000-06:00

9 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Ideas, Websites Setup

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

It wold be too much for me to try to describe how to set up every type of hosting you might be able to do with a URL (.com). I won't try to do that, but I'll give you the general steps and ways to get the work complete.

Your site comes with a site address (a URL) and a name (www.xxxxxxx.com). The name on the Internet is the name you insert in your browser to get to the place where your pages will be posted (you could also put in the address, but that's too hard and unnecessary--don't worry about it). Just like a computer, the data you post is kept in folders and files at the host location. The where doesn't really matter. What matters is having access to that location and posting your files and webpages there.

You transfer files and webpages by editing and saving them in an html editor. I use MS Homepage because I have the program (and I'm cheap), but there are many html editors out there. Word and most of the other MS products can be used to edit html code. I like to use a specialty program because the results tend to be better, but any equipped word processor can do it. A specially program also allows you to get other information like display speed, webpage management etc.

Many companies that host websites also can provide a setup and web editor. You usually have to pay for these services. In general, once you have your website, you have to place the website on the host. This makes a folder at the host location with the name of your website. The host location usually also has other folders for use by the website and the host. If you produce a file labeled index.htm in the folder of your website, any browser will automatically load that file. That is the first page of your website. Subsequent pages are labeled however you want (using typical file labeling rules) with htm as the three letter identifier at the end. These files need to be written in html code to be effectively used by a browser. Like I mentioned, most editors will produce html coded files.

If you really know what you are doing, you can work in the html code. Usually, you will just see the webpage as someone's browser sees it.
I'll discuss more about websites tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Ideas, Websites

2011-12-08T06:24:00.000-06:00

8 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Ideas, Websites

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along. I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them. I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.
1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

Websites are the life of Internet advertising. You must get this together or you will have little hope of breaking your novel out of the pack. Even so, there is much more that can be said about websites than I could possibly convey in a blog. I'll try to do the subject justice...or at least get you started.

I use www.godaddy.com. I'm not necessarily advertising for them, but I find they provide all the support I need, and they were recommended to me. Go to www.godaddy.com or any other similar web URL provider and hosting site and obtain the websites for yourself and your novel. Do it as soon as you set the title on the novel. The cost of owning a URL (a .com mane) is about $8 per year. I obtained www.AksinyaNovel.com for Aksinay. I put www.Aksinya.com on back order. You also need a "host" for your site. You can self host, if you are familiar, or you can get someone else to host for you. I use www.godaddy.com as my host. Once you own the URL, you can host anywhere. There are definite advantages to self hosting and to off site hosting. For right now, the easiest is to use on off site host--like www.godaddy.com.

Once you have a host, you need to set up the site--I'll discuss this tomorrow.
I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Ideas

2011-12-07T06:25:00.002-06:00

7 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Ideas

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way. At this moment, I'm showing you the marketing material I put together for a novel.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Unless you do something to draw attention to your novels, they will just be lost among the host of other books people can buy. This is why I've advised you to have a unique title and to carefully design your cover. That won't be enough. Even if you have the most exciting and interesting novel ever written, unless you can gain some degree of attention for it, people won't buy it--or read it.

The question is how do you get attention for your books. I've been giving ideas for a while on this blog. You can look back through and find many techniques. I'll give you the best right now.

1. Have a website for your novel.
2. Write a blog.
3. Advertise.
4. Literary awards.
5. Book cards.
6. Contests.
7. Interviews.
8. Blog tours.
9. Press releases.
10. Speaking and teaching.
11. e-mailing.
12. ...

There's a lot more. I'll go through websites tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - Advertising Concepts

2011-12-06T06:22:00.001-06:00

6 December 2011, Publication - Advertising Concepts

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way. At this moment, I'm showing you the marketing material I put together for a novel.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Your publisher provides a certain degree of marketing savy and power to you that an indie doesn't have. Unfortunately, for most published authors, this marketing support is limited. Really, unless and until you have a bestseller, you aren't at the center of your publisher's radar.

So, you could hire an advertising or promotional group or person. That costs money, usually, lots of money. I'm not certain of the return on value--I'd like to know, but that information isn't easily available. If you find some, I'd like to see it. There is the other more realistic risk. Although all authors are certain their own works are fabulous, and many times others will agree, the real problem is the question--will this book really be a bestseller? And--should I put down a chunk of change to take that risk?

The obvious answer is to let the market decide. This is where an indie has a definite disadvantage. The published author has already run one of the gauntlets of the market--publishing. A publisher has taken a chance on the novel--one value judgment has been made. The publisher and the published author have some hope of return on value for this reason alone. Therefore, as an indie author, I wouldn't take a risk (by spending a chunk of change) on a novel that has not been accepted by a publisher. And as a published author, I'm more of the opinion to let the market itself judge the value of my work--there are problems with that strategy.

We'll explore those problems and more of this idea of low and no cost advertising tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - many more Other Places

2011-12-05T06:25:00.002-06:00

5 December 2011, Publication - many more Other Places

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way. At this moment, I'm showing you the marketing material I put together for a novel.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

In addition to Internet booksellers, there are a host of other places where you can advertise your books. How effective are they? I have no idea. I guess I've been going on the "it can't hurt" strategy. I actually have a business plan with metrics and everything. The problem is that you really can't measure the rate of success from many of the information sites where you can list your books.

My theory is that if there is no money outlay--only sweat equity, I will do it. Along those lines, if you go to my author website at http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "Writing Connections" on the left, you will see some of the sites I have placed information about my books. These are all free sites.

http://www.writers.net/
http://www.authorsden.com/
http://www.authortree.com/
http://www.weread.com/

I'm sure there are many more. Pass them on to me if you know of some others. These are generally sites where you can list your books and general author information. As I wrote, they are free.

Tomorrow, let's look at some other information sites and places to advertise your books.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Publication - more Other Places

2011-12-04T06:28:00.002-06:00

4 December 2011, Publication - more Other Places

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way. At this moment, I'm showing you the marketing material I put together for a novel.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Many times your publisher has selling agreements with booksellers. These agreements can be with Internet, electronic, and/or brick and mortar (bookstore) sellers. My publisher has agreements with CBD (Christian Book Distributors) www.CBD.com for Internet sales, Family Audio Library www.familyaudiolibrary.com for electronic books, and Ingram for brick and mortar sales. That doesn't mean you can't get my books at other Internet and electronic sources. In fact, you can get my books in any electronic format and from almost every Internet seller. It means you can get discounts from the companies my publisher has agreements with. Ingram is the largest brick and mortar distributor in the world, which means, if you are a bookstore, you can stock my books just like any other books. I wrote about that before--it's not that great a deal for your publisher, but it's their risk. If you are an indie, you usually can't get books into a brick and mortar store or you take all the risk for returns.

Back to the point. If your publisher has agreements with any kind of sellers, spend a little extra time on their site. Fill in everything. Provide any information that site needs or requests. The point is to support your publisher and to support those companies that support your publisher.
Tomorrow, let's look at some other information sites and places to advertise your books.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.