Showing posts with label Block. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Block. Show all posts

Saturday, August 17, 2013

Segolia Saturday: What's next?

It's Segolia Saturday and today I'll be discussing what I'll be doing now that Segolia: Daughter of Prophecy is out.

So those of you who have finished book one know how it ends. I won't spoil it for those who haven't read that far yet but I know it's driving people crazy. I know because it's driving me crazy too and I know what happens next. I'm anxious for everyone to be able to read it. I have written the second one, Segolia 2: Age of the Shadow (title still in the works, by the way). But here's the problem: Because Segolia: Daughter of Prophecy has only been out for just over a month, I can't publish the second one yet (unfortunately). The other problem is with the publisher. I've sold only a few books on their website (which doesn't look very promising for a sequel). But if you really want to get that second one out, there are a few things we can do to get it moving:
1. We need to get more reviews out there! I know, I know, I nag and nag about the reviews. But I have only five and I'm going to need a lot more to get people's attention. Goodreads, Amazon, you name it. We've got to get reviews there.
2. Tell people about Segolia! Seems easy enough, right? Book success is all about word of mouth. If no one's heard of it, how can they possibly read it? So, share my fan page, my book trailer (now on YouTube), this blog, your copy of the book, anything. We need to spread the word or book 2 will never hit the shelves (my biggest fear).
3. Read the book. This one is pretty dang obvious. But the thing is a lot people haven't yet (not pointing fingers by the way). But if people don't read it, then I can't build the fan base that I need. And without fans, no sequel.
So based on these things, I hope you're not freaking out and thinking there will never be a sequel. There WILL. I'm determined to see this through, as determined as I was to write the first one, despite a truck fire and all those other problems. But we can certainly speed up the process through spreading the word and getting people interested. Every author starts where I am now but with your help, that can change. I need fans that live and breathe Segolia the same way they breathe Divergent and Harry Potter. That is the key to success. I can write well, I can do all kinds of signings, but I need the help of the people to see this through.

In the meantime, I will keep editing Segolia 2 in hopes that interest will pick up. Hopefully soon. I want to get this thing out there. It's quite the book. ;)
Thanks!

Sunday, June 9, 2013

Bad Writing Day? 7 Things to Do to Get Writing

You're stuck again. The words just won't come, right? You want to write that scene but can't get it out on paper.
We all have those days when we just struggle with every word. Some days will just be slow and some parts will just be a struggle. But there are things you can do to get the writing juices flowing again.
1. Go for a walk.
Sometimes, a little fresh air can make all the difference. Go on a walk down the street, go for a run, just get moving. Sometimes, that's all you need.
2. Read a book.
After writing for awhile, your mind might just be on overload. Take a break and pick up a good book. Letting your mind take it easy may inspire you.
3. Listen to music.
Music can be inspiring. If your stuck on a particular scene, try listening to music that fits the tone of the scene. It could make a huge difference. If that fails, just listening to music and relaxing can clear your mind.
4. Struggle through it.
Easier said than done, right? But if you have to meet a deadline or just want to get through it, you can just push yourself through the scene. If you have to, just sloppily write it out. You can always fix it later. Sometimes, getting it out on paper makes a big difference.
5. Relax.
Take a bath, take a nap, eat something, socialize. If you've been writing for awhile, you might be getting a little distracted. Attention might grow short. If you need a break, take one!
6. Pacing.
Sometimes we see this on the movies. Someone pacing as they plan. This is my personal remedy for blocks. Sometimes, just focusing your energy on walking back and forth while you think can make a difference.
7. Talk to someone.
Another thing you can do is just talk to someone about what you're having a hard time. I usually tell my sister what the problem is. Most of the time, I get an idea when I'm explaining the problem.
So that's it. Next time your stuck, give these a try. Different remedies work for different people. You never really know what'll work until you give it a try!