Book Review: “Dying Time”
Posted: February 21, 2025 Filed under: Book Review, Books, Fiction, Review, Speculative Fiction, Supernatural, weird western 2 Comments
About Dying Time
How many Agents of Death does it take to save the world?
If it’s Ginny Sutton, just one.
After barely surviving her confrontation with the Sinful Six, Ginny spends the winter hiding out, adjusting to her new job as an Agent, and honing the powerful gifts bestowed by the station.
Spring brings her to Dodge City where she finds her new boss Death waiting with an urgent assignment spurred by a foretelling of his brother War. The Vampire Council has an agenda for world domination that includes turning Ginny into one of their kind to harness her Agent powers for their evil plans. Worse yet, they’re targeting other beings of power and magic for the same purpose: to turn them and use their gifts to create a vicious army of super vampires. Ginny must become the hunter before ending up as prey, or the entire world will descend into darkness.
The vampire threat is personal, but bigger than one woman’s life. Ginny’s only hope is to abandon working alone and recruit a team—steadfast friends both old and new, along with her trusty mount Horse—to defeat the Council before their dark forces are unleashed upon humanity. It will take luck, skill, and determination to win the day, but as Ginny learned long before becoming an Agent:
HOPE IS NOT A STRATEGY.
From the author of Blood Follows Blood comes the second book in this supernatural western series where legends walk among us, and the line between hunter and prey is never clear.
Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.com/Dying-Time-Legend-Ginny-Sutton-ebook/dp/B0DVSM2VKJ
My Review of Dying Time
I requested a digital copy of Dying Time, by Julie Jones in exchange for an honest review. All opinions stated here are my own.
Dying Time is book 2 of The Legend of Ginny Sutton series, by author Julie Jones. Last year, I enjoyed the first book in this series so much that I had to ask to review the second as soon as I learned she was writing it. You can see my review of the first book and interview with the author in this segment of “Chatting with New Blood”. Ms. Jones did not disappoint.
In book 1, Ginny Sutton was called upon to be an agent of Death. In Dying Time, Death calls upon her once again, this time to rid the west of a vampire army which threatens to destroy all humanity and other creatures, both natural and supernatural, in their path. Bestowed with supernatural powers of her own, Ginny is commissioned to enlist some of her friends, which were introduced in the first book and are just as likable in this tale. Poker Alice, her Native American friend, Maggie, and Sheriff Ed Hayes join forces with Ginny to rid the west of a terrible evil which could mean the end of humanity.
You never know what will happen next in this world where supernatural beings walk the American western frontier, but Ginny Sutton is ready to face whatever life, or Death, throws her way. I give Dying Time five quills.
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Kaye Lynne Booth does honest book reviews on Writing to be Read in exchange for ARCs. Have a book you’d like reviewed? You can request a review on the Book Review tab above.
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Treasuring Poetry – Meet poet and author, Cindy Georgakas and a book review #poetry #TreasuringPoetry #bookreview
Posted: February 19, 2025 Filed under: Uncategorized 59 Comments
Today, I am delighted to introduce you to poet and author, Cindy Georgakas. Cindy is one of the most upbeat and positive people I’ve ever met and her book and poetry are a delight to read.
What is your favorite style of poetry to read i.e. haiku, ballad, epic, freestyle, etc.
I love everything about spoken word poetry. The story, the inflection, the rhyming at times, the metered lines, the buildup, emotions that come with it and the message it sends. Like most of us, Amanda Gorman is so talented and hearing her spoken word resonates deeply with me. I also love Sara Kaye and Phil Kaye and they are not related I might add. I have posted about them which you can find here if you like https://uniquelyfitblog.com/2023/04/14/update-spoken-word-poetry-shark-tank-tonight/. This is a wonderful poem they did together which explains their story.
I love reading poetry or anything else for that matter that reaches my heart and soul and if it doesn’t it’s very difficult for me to engage with it. If it’s too ambiguous and I have the think too long, I’m not interested.
And although I love lot’s of styles and it fascinates me, my time is so limited, I need to adhere to what I love at the moment. Perhaps someday it could be fun to explore other forms but for now, I have to honor my truth.
I find it the same with movies. I’ll give them 10-15 minutes and if I’m not engaged, I’ll walk out. Life is too full in my world and I value my time and the people in front of me so I have to be selective to protect my sanity and those I love.
The same is true with engaging with others online and in “real life”. We can’t be all things to all people nor can we respond to everything or we wouldn’t get anything done. So do what you love and do it well and be as kind to yourself as you are to others.
What is your favorite poem in your favorite style to read?
I would have to say that freestyle/prose poetry is a favorite of mine. As you know, I am a non-poet turned poet without any formal training. Words come to me day or night and I write them down as they get downloaded to me, from where, I don’t know but deep inside my unconscious brain at times. Sometimes they rhyme, sometimes they don’t, some lines appear metered but not by intention, some I use refrain and repeat which happens if it happens but not by design. Often its stream of consciousness that appears on the page.
With your question came the opportunity to visit poets that write similar in nature or of those I respect and admire. Thank you, Robbie, for these questions that I have to say felt daunting to me at first. I even asked our friend Diana Wallace Peach https://mythsofthemirror.com/ about freestyle poets I might connect with, and she gave me some insight. In her review of my book, she said:
“Most of the poetry reflects a style I’d refer to as “delineated prose,” more conversational and accessible than poetry dense with metaphor and lyrical imagery. This style makes the collection a quick, easy read, primarily addressing “you,” the reader/seeker of a happier, more balanced life.”
This was very enlightening to me because I had never heard that term before. Digging deeper was a lesson in getting to know poets of my similar genre that I enjoy reading and writing and finding out what it is I love about each one. Many poets came to mind, each that have a brilliant way with words. Jack Kerouac, Walt Whitman, Emily Dickenson, Allen Ginsberg, Mary Oliver, Maya D’Angelo and many in our community as well, including you and Diana. Thank you, Cindy.
While there are so many amazing authors, I have to say I truly connect with Maya D’Angelo. Here writing is always aimed to connect people, stop the segregation and differences between us and look for the similarities. She was bright, witty, funny and poignant all at the same time and left a piece of her heart in every word so we might share her message to those who might need to hear it. I love this poem she wrote which is an example of her courage, compassion and love of humanity.
Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud by Maya Angelou
I’ve had so many rainbows in my clouds
I had a lot of clouds
So I don’t ever feel
I have no help
I’ve had rainbows in my clouds
And the thing to do it seems to me
Is to prepare yourself
So that you can be a rainbow
In somebody else’s cloud
Somebody who may not look like you
May not call God the same name you call God
If they call god at all
You see
May not eat the same dishes prepared the way you do
May not dance your dances
or speak your language
But be a blessing to somebody
That’s what I think.
What is your favorite style of poetry to write? Why?
I love how it flows from my brain to my fingertips, tongue and quill, otherwise mostly my computer.
What is your favorite of your own poems?
This was the poem Diana chose that was one of her favorites of my work, and I think it is a great example of words flowing through as a facet of myself and how I connect spiritually to the universe and my day. Although a short poem, one that brings peace when I read it.
The Way
It’s between the familiar and the unfamiliar where I meet my soul. The calling, the dance, the way, where clouds shift, birds sing, around my head buzzing in my ears and eyes and the boulders of my mind, that wake to what’s important in this uncharted territory.
Please tell us about your poetry book, Celebrating Poetry. What is your main intention with this collection of poems.
My poems are a culmination of poems moving the reader from dark to lightness in 4 Steps mirroring my first book, Re-Create & Celebrate: 7 Steps To Turn Your Dreams Into Reality.
Step 1 Finding Your Path
Step 2 From Darkness to Light
Step 3 Ignite Your Light
Step 4 Celebrate
My intention and hope is that as one of my word press friends says “reading Cindy’s books to find a warm embrace on a dark night”. That really hit home with me as the writer of my own words and as a reader when I heard them in a review. My hope is that we can heal the wounds of our past, grow from obstacles in our path, light a way to the future and celebrate each moment of our lives and hold ourselves through each facet of joy, pain, sadness and happiness by loving ourselves and others. There is a place to write your own reflections and maybe even write a poem of your own. Life takes us to places we least expect as I have found that keep unfolding before my eyes.
About Cindy Georgakas
Cindy is a San Francisco native and currently lives nestled in the trees in a small community with her husband. She is a health and wellness professional, a certified life coach, personal trainer, yoga/meditation teacher,and bodyworker. She draws inspiration from her clients, friends, four children, 4 legged furry kids and nature.
Her new book Celebrating Poetry is a #1 New Top Release on Amazon. It is a companion guide to her book, Re-Create & Celebrate: 7 Steps to Live the Life of Your Dreams, has over 41 5 Star Reviews. She was voted Author of the Month on Spillwords Press in April 2023 and Publication of the Month on Spillwords in October 2022.
She is a co-author of #1 Amazon Bestseller, Wounds I Healed: The Poetry of Strong Women, #1 Best Seller of Hidden In Childhood: A Poetry Anthology and is also a Treasured Contributor to MastecadoresUsa.
You can read more of Cindy’s work at Unique Times by Cindy Georgakas.
Author New Release Re-Create & Celebrate: 7 Steps to turn your Dreams in Reality Amazon
Author Of The Year 2024 Spillwords Press
Co-Author, #1 Amazon Bestseller, Wounds I Healed: The Poetry of Strong Women
Co-Author, #1 Amazon Bestseller, Hidden in Childhood, A Poetry Anthology
Co-Author, # 1 Amazon New Release, Petals Haiku: An Anthology
Monthly Contributor, 2022/23, MasticadoresUSA
Website: uniquelyfit.net
My review of Celebrating Poetry by Cindy Georgakas
This delightful book of poetry is a companion to this poet and author’s motivational book, Re-Create & Celebrate: 7 Steps to turn your Dreams into Reality. Celebrating Poetry shares the same helpful and uplifting messages on how to help yourself make the most of life and find joy. Celebrating Poetry is divided into four distinct sections, namely, Trusting Your Path, From Darkness to Light, Ignite Insight, and CELEBRATE! Each of the sections starts with a motivational message of how the author has achieved the goal set out in the section title. The main messaging being as follows: “It is my hope that you move through these poems and grow more in acceptance and self-love so you can enjoy life to the fullest.”
The poet is an exceptional person with a strong character and ability to guide and provide strength to others. These characteristics shine through in every poem in this collection. I finished reading this book feeling revitalized and ready to take on the world and make the most of every opportunity presented to me.
One of my favourite poems in this collection is Enjoy the Music of Silence. This is an extract:
“Enjoy the music of silence
where stillness resides:
Feel your heartbeat,
your very first instrument.
Some days it might be out of tune,
and other times, in perfect harmony.
March to the beat of your own drum,
For you are the conductor of your life.”
These are words to live by, for me.
The collection finishes with this empowering quote: “The length of our life is love, not length of time or years, and as we love, eternity appears.”
A most delightful collection that I highly recommend.
You can purchase Celebrating Poetry from Amazon US here: https://www.amazon.com/Celebrating-Poetry-Cindy-Georgakas-ebook/dp/B0DNBPC4GP
About Robbie Cheadle
South African author and illustrator, Robbie Cheadle, has written and illustrated sixteen children’s books, illustrated a further three children’s books, and written and illustrated three poetry books. Her work has also appeared in poetry and short story anthologies.
Robbie also has two novels and a collection of short stories published under the name of Roberta Eaton Cheadle and has horror, paranormal, and fantasy short stories featured in several anthologies under this name.
You can find Robbie Cheadle’s artwork, fondant and cake artwork, and all her books on her website here: https://www.robbiecheadle.co.za/
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Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
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This segment of “Treasuring Poetry” is sponsored by WordCrafter Press and the Poetry Treasures series.
Get Your Copy Today!
Poetry Treasures: https://books2read.com/PoetryTreasures
Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships: https://books2read.com/PT2-Relationships
Poetry Treasures 3: Passions: https://books2read.com/u/b5qnBR
Poetry Treasures 4:In Touch With Nature: https://books2read.com/PT4-Nature
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Review in Practice: Booking the Library
Posted: February 17, 2025 Filed under: Book Promotion, Review in Practice, Story Telling Methods, Writing | Tags: Booking the Library, Jessica Brawner, Nonfiction, Review in Practice, Writing to be Read 10 CommentsI was fortunate to receive a digital copy of Booking the Library, by Jessica Brawner in the 2024 Novel Writing Story Bundle, curated by Kevin J. Anderson, in which my book. The D.I.Y. Author was featured. All opinions stated here are my own.
Many of the old school authors swear that in person promotion is the way to go to sell books, and it is certainly the way to get your book on library shelves. In 2022, I wrote a “Review in Practice” about Mark Leslie Lefebvre’s An Author’s Guide to Working with Libraries and Bookstores, which covers how to build relationships with librarians as a way to help get your books on the shelves of local libraries and brick and mortar bookstores. Part of his advice included volunteering to do readings or presentations as a way to get your foot in the door and create a mutually beneficial relationship with librarians. Libraries do buy books, so it’s good advice, but for me, it has been something I’m still striving for.
Booking the Library takes us beyond that relationship by pointing readers toward actually getting paid to do readings and performances in libraries, which I had never really thought about doing before. It contains a lot of great tips and pointers for getting you, or perhaps your story telling group, bookings in libraries and other venues. Although this type of in person event is far beyond my means at the moment, there were many tidbits that I stowed away for a time when I am able to do so, because the idea of doing this type of appearance sounds like a lot of fun. I can only imagine being able to read my stories in front of an audience.
Although Booking the Library is aimed at performers from all walks of life, much of what is suggested applies to authors and storytellers as well. Jessica Brawner shares the basics, how to find libraries and how to pitch them, booking and planning tours, mailing lists, documents and tools needed, promoting events, getting paid and financial tips, and more. Since I’d never thought of booking for pay, this book was very enlightening.
About Booking the Library
Explore the world of library touring and program booking with “Booking the Library (Second Edition).” Tailored for musicians, storytellers, puppeteers, authors, speakers, and all ‘living wage’ entertainers, this guide is your key to unlocking fresh markets, cultivating a dedicated fan base, and revolutionizing your livelihood.
Dive into a treasure trove of practical tools to elevate your booking game, including sample phone scripts, contracts, and emails. Uncover the secrets of swiftly accessing library contact information, discover best practices that set you apart, and explore creating your ideal program description. “Booking the Library” isn’t just a guide; it’s your compass for navigating the complex world of library programs, filled with invaluable tips and practical advice to ensure your journey is not only successful but also leaves you happy, healthy, and sane as you passionately pursue your craft. Elevate your entertainment business with the wisdom within these pages and let your talent shine on new stages.
Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.com/Booking-Library-Comprehensive-Performances-Entertainers/dp/0999062956/
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About Kaye Lynne Booth
For Kaye Lynne Booth, writing is a passion. Kaye Lynne is an author with published short fiction and poetry, both online and in print, including her short story collection, Last Call and Other Short Fiction; and her paranormal mystery novella, Hidden Secrets; Books 1 & 2 of her Women in the West adventure series, Delilah and Sarah, and her Time-Travel Adventure novel, The Rock Star & The Outlaw, her the first three books in her kid’s book series, My Backyard Friends, her poetry collection, Small Wonders, and her writer’s resource, The D.I.Y. Author. Kaye holds a dual M.F.A. degree in Creative Writing with emphasis in genre fiction and screenwriting, and an M.A. in publishing. Kaye Lynne is the founder of WordCrafter Quality Writing & Author Services and WordCrafter Press. She also maintains an authors’ blog and website, Writing to be Read, where she publishes content of interest in the literary world.
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Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
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This post is sponsored by The D.I.Y. Author and WordCrafter Press.
Being an author today is more than just writing the book. Authors in this digital age have more opportunities than ever before. Whether you pursue independent or traditional publishing models, or a combination of the two, being an author involves not only writing, but often, the publishing and marketing of the book.
In this writer’s reference guide, multi-genre author and independent publisher, Kaye Lynne Booth shares her knowledge and experiences and the tools, books, references and sites to help you learn the business of being an author.
Topics Include:
Becoming Prolific
Writing Tools
Outlining
Making Quality a Priority
Publishing Models & Trends
Marketing Your Book
Book Covers & Blurbs
Book Events—In Person & Virtual
And More…
Purchase your copy today: https://books2read.com/The-DIY-Author
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Chatting with the Pros: Children’s Author, Darlene Foster
Posted: February 15, 2025 Filed under: Book Review, Books, Chatting with the Pros, Children's Books, Fiction, Interview, Writing | Tags: Amanda in Scotland, Author Interview, Book Reveiw, Chatting with the Pros, Children's Books, Darlene Foster, Kaye Lynne Booth, Writing to be Read 77 Comments
I first met Darlene when she sent me a pitch for this interview in response to a call for pitches I put out. I’m always thrilled to meet other children’s authors and I have to say, I really liked her attitude and her approach. I believe children’s authors have the gift of viewingthe world through a child’s eyes, or maybe they just retain more of their own inner child than others do. When I saw her author photo (below), I saw this in her wonderful smile and the sparkle in her eye.
Join me here, in learning more about her and her lovely children’s books, the Amanda Travels Series, (ten books and still more to come). She also writes short fiction, which has been featured in several anthologies, and has a short fiction collection, .
About Darlene Foster
Darlene Foster grew up on a ranch in Alberta, Canada, where her love of reading inspired her to see the world and write stories. She is the author of the exciting Amanda Travels series featuring spunky Amanda Ross, a twelve-year-old girl who loves to travel. All ages enjoy following Amanda as she unravels one mystery after another in unique destinations. When not travelling, meeting interesting people, and collecting ideas for her books, Darlene enjoys spending time with her family in Canada and her house in Spain with her husband and entertaining rescue dogs, Dot and Lia.
My Interview with Darlene
Kaye: Please tell us a little about your author’s journey.
Darlene: Since I was a little girl on the farm, I enjoyed telling stories, often making them up in my head as I daydreamed. My wonderful grade-three teacher suggested I write my stories down. I had a short story published in the local newspaper when I was twelve but didn’t do much serious writing until I was a grandmother. I visited a friend in the United Arab Emirates and had such a great time that I planned to write a story about it. After several unsuccessful attempts, I decided to try writing the story from a twelve-year-old’s point of view. Amanda in Arabia: The Perfume Flask was born. It took me three years to write the book and another five years to find a publisher, but I persisted. In the meantime, I wrote Amanda in Spain: The Girl in The Painting and had ideas for Amanda in England: The Missing Novel. I now have ten books in the series and am working on the eleventh.
Kaye: You are a member of the Children’s Writer’s Guild. Can you tell us how authors benefit from being a member of such organizations?
Darlene: I belong to CWILL BC (Children’s Writers and Illustrators of BC) I love being part of an organization like this as it is important to mix with other authors. One of the many benefits is the sharing of knowledge. It is the best way to keep up to date on the writing/publishing industry which is an ever-changing world. It’s imperative to keep on top of trends etc. These organizations put together workshops and special events, in person or online, and provide marketing opportunities. Because of my membership, I have done in-class presentations all over the world via Zoom. I used to belong to more similar organizations, but there is only so much time to commit.
Kaye: You have a children’s series, the Amanda Travels series. Tell us about the books and the series.
Darlene: Here is the Reader’s Digest version. Spunky Amanda Jane Ross loves travelling to interesting places, meeting cool people and learning fascinating new things. Her curiosity and eagerness to help people often gets her into trouble wherever she goes. Her adventures have taken her to the deserts of Arabia, castles in England, Spain’s sunny beaches, historic cities along the Danube, spooky buildings in New Mexico, the tulip fields of Holland, and mysterious standing stones in Scotland. Life is never dull for this tween.
Kaye: Amanda in Scotland makes ten books in the Amanda Travels books, and in each one she travels to a different country. Would I be wrong in assuming that you have visited all the places Amanda has traveled?
Darlene: You would not be wrong. In fact, I have made it a policy that Amanda can not go anywhere I haven’t been!
Kaye: Which country is your favorite? Why?
Darlene: That’s difficult to answer as I like all of them for different reasons. Perhaps the United Arab Emirates as it was so very different from anything I had ever experienced, and it got me started writing the series.
Kaye: Which country is Amanda’s favorite? Why?
Darlene: Amanda doesn’t have a favourite country. She loves them all and always has a great time wherever she goes. As long as she is making friends,learning new things, and solving a mystery, she is happy.
Kaye: If Amanda goes to a different country each year, how old was she when the series began? How many countries does Amanda go to each year?
Darlene: Amanda turned twelve when she wished for travel and adventure before blowing out the candles on her birthday cake. She stays twelve years old throughout the series. Nancy Drew is the same age in all 34 books. I believe Trixie Belden stays around the same age too. The books are stand-alone and don’t have to be read in any particular order. I prefer writing for tweens instead of teenagers.
Kaye: Where does Amanda plan to travel next?
Darlene: Amanda will be off to Ireland to attend her cousin’s wedding. She will have a fabulous adventure in the Emerald Isle; the land of leprechauns, fairies and dangerous bogs. The working title is, Amanda in Ireland: The Body in the Bog.
Kaye: You are a traditionally published author and the Amanda Travels series is signed with Simon & Schuster. (Congratulations, by the way.) How much of the marketing and promotion for your books are you required to do?
Darlene: The first nine books were published by Central Avenue Publishing, a small independent press in Canada. CAP has recently become an imprint of Simon & Schuster, which is wonderful. I self-published, through Draft2Digital, Amanda in Scotland: The Standing Stones. As for marketing and promotion, I have always done most of my own. I set up book signings and visits to bookstores, schools and libraries, as well as blog tours and social media marketing. I do some marketing every day as it is part of the job. It is great to have a distribution company like Simon & Schuster for bookstores, libraries, and schools to order from.
Kaye: After being traditionally published for nine books, why the switch to independent publishing through D2D?
Darlene: My publisher has decided not to publish kids’ books anymore. We are still on good terms, and I am leaving the first nine books with her. The publishing world is very changeable and as writers, we need to be adaptable.
Kaye: According to your bio, you are an award-winning author. Would you tell us about the awards you’ve won for your books? Which are you most proud of?
Darlene: I have won awards for my short stories, which can be found in a number of anthologies. I’m very proud of my story, The Day Dief Came to Town. It’s based on an hilarious event from my childhood. It was the first prize I got for my writing and gave me the confidence to carry on. I included it in my short-story collection, You Can Take The Girl From The Prairie
Kaye: Your books are available in both digital and print editions. What differences do you see in digital and print sales for children’s books?
Darlene: Initially (15 years ago), I sold 50% e-books and 50% print books. Now it is more like 25% e-books and 75% print books. Kids still enjoy holding a book in their hands, and adults prefer buying print books for them. School libraries like to stock print books, and teachers use the print books as part of their curriculum.
Kaye: What advice do you have for new authors trying to break into the children’s market?
Darlene: Never give up and never stop learning. Search out other writers who can serve as mentors or become part of your street team.
Kaye: Where can readers find out more about you and the Amanda Travels series?
Darlene:
My website https://www.darlenefoster.ca/
My blog https://darlenefoster.wordpress.com/
My Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.ca/stores/Darlene-Foster/author/B003XGQPHA
My goodreads page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3156908.Darlene_Foster
Thank you so much for inviting me to your blog!
Kaye: You’ve been a wonderful guest. Thank you so much for your candid responses.
About Amanda in Scotland: The Standing Stones
What could possibly go wrong on the magical Scottish Isle of Arran? It’s such a peaceful, charming place with castles, mountains, old graves and ancient standing stones.
Amanda Ross and Leah Anderson are visiting Aunt Jenny who owns an old house on the island. But something is not right. A mysterious woman, who seems to have stepped out of the past, keeps appearing, Leah’s father hasn’t contacted the family for some time, and Aunt Jenny’s house may have an uninvited guest.
Amanda is intrigued by this picturesque island, often called Little Scotland. She watches exciting sheepdog trials, attends a lively ceilidh, makes friends with the locals, and visits the mystical Holy Island. Join Amanda as she tries to solve the mystery of the strange woman and the disappearance of Leah’s father. Will the past catch up with the present?
Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.com/Amanda-Scotland-Standing-Stones-Travels-ebook/dp/B0D5TMLSLC
My Review of Amanda in Scotland
I received a digital copy of Amanda in Scotland: The Standing Stones from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions stated here are my own.
Amanda in Scotland: The Standing Stones, by Darlene Foster is a delightful middle-grade mystery reminescent of the Nancy Drew mysteries, with the element of travel thrown in. In the Amanda Travels Series, Amanda is a curious and bright twelve year old, who discover and solve myteries through her travels. Readers are introduced to the various countries she travels to through Amanda’s eyes as she learns about the history and culture of each destination.
This story takes us to the Arran in Scotland, where Amanda visits her travel friend, Leah, and her Aunt Jenny. As the girls explore Arran and the surrounding islands, they meet a mysterious woman, recieve puzzling messages from Leah’s father, and they experience other odd occurances which don’t add up. On an island where many places are reported to be haunted, Amanda determines to follow the clues and unravel the mystery. Like any good mystery, all is revealed by the end of the story.
Foster manages to give vivid descriptions, allowing readers to picture the castles, ruins and landscapes of Scotland in stunning detail, while delighting in the thrill of solving a mystery. I’ve no doubt the other books in the series are just as delightful. A great way for young readers to learn about the world around us. I give Amanda in Scotland five quills.
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About Kaye Lynne Booth
For Kaye Lynne Booth, writing is a passion. Kaye Lynne is an author with published short fiction and poetry, both online and in print, including her short story collection, Last Call and Other Short Fiction; and her paranormal mystery novella, Hidden Secrets; Books 1 & 2 of her Women in the West adventure series, Delilah and Sarah, and her Time-Travel Adventure novel, The Rock Star & The Outlaw,as well as her poetry collection, Small Wonders and The D.I.Y. Author writing resource. Kaye holds a dual M.F.A. degree in Creative Writing with emphasis in genre fiction and screenwriting, and an M.A. in publishing. Kaye Lynne is the founder of WordCrafter Quality Writing & Author Services and WordCrafter Press. She also maintains an authors’ blog and website, Writing to be Read, where she publishes content of interest in the literary world.
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Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
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This segment of “Chatting with the Pros” is sponsored by the My Backyard Friends Kid’s Book Series and WordCrafter Press.
The My Backyard Friends kid’s book series is inspired by the birds and animals that visit the author Kaye Lynne Booth’s mountain home. Beautiful illustrations by children’s author, poet, and illustrator, Robbie Cheadle, bring the unique voices of the animal characters to life.
Get Your Copy Now.
Heather Hummingbird Makes a New Friend (Ages 3-5): https://books2read.com/MBF-HeatherHummingbird
Timothy Turtle Discovers Jellybeans (Ages 3-5): https://books2read.com/MBF-TimothyTurtle
Charlie Chickadee Gets a New Home (Ages 6-8): https://books2read.com/MBF-CharlieChickadee
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Book Review: Truth Games
Posted: February 14, 2025 Filed under: Books, Review, Suspense, Thriller, Writing to be Read | Tags: Book Review, Caroline England, Kaye Lynne Booth, psychological thrilers, Truth Games, Writing to be Read 3 CommentsAbout Truth Games
She tries hard to be the perfect mother, the perfect partner, the perfect daughter – but Ellie never seems to get it right.
When an old friend from university re-enters her life, dark memories from Ellie’s past begin to resurface.
As Ellie starts to unravel some shocking and sinister realities, she realises that she must choose between keeping the family she loves – and facing the truth.
From the Top Ten ebook bestselling author, this twisty psychological thriller will have you hooked from the first page to the last jaw-dropping twist.
My Review of Truth Games
I purchased a digital copy of Truth Games, by Caroline England from Freebooksie. All opinions stated here are my own.
Everyone has secrets, some buried deeper than others. As Ellie Hastings searches for the truths of a past she can’t remember, she uncovers many truths which she’s been hiding from herself. Told from a singular point of view, this introspective tale of deceptions, uncovers the lies and ommisions of those she loves and cares about. Obsessed with learning the truth, Ellie reveals all their secrets, as well as her own, each more devastating than the last.
At first, with all the dreams mixed in with snippets of memories, I thought perhaps Ellie was just a bit paranoid in feeling that the people around her were all lying about various things. But as the story unfolds it becomes evident that she may not be crazy, as her suspicions prove to be true, one by one.
A psychological thriller that keeps readers guessing. I give Truth Games three quills.
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Kaye Lynne Booth does honest book reviews on Writing to be Read in exchange for ARCs. Have a book you’d like reviewed? You can request a review on the Book Review tab above.
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Read and Cook with Robbie Cheadle – Ghost Train by Natalie Anna Jacobsen and a Japanese cooking class #Japan #bookreview
Posted: February 12, 2025 Filed under: Book Review, Books, Fiction, Read and Cook, Recipes, Review, Supernatural | Tags: Book Reviews, Read and Cook, Recipes, Robbie Cheadle, Writing to be Read 59 Comments
Ghost Train by Natalie Anna Jacobsen
What Amazon says
“A haunting and immersive read.” – Eva Wong Nava, author of The House of Little Sisters. “With lyrical prose that evokes the mystique of 19th-century Kyoto, this meticulously researched narrative weaves together historical authenticity with the ethereal allure of ‘yokai’ folklore.” – Jake Adelstein, journalist and author of Tokyo Vice and The Last Yakuza
Set in 1877 Kyoto during the early years of the Meiji “Restoration” Era, Ghost Train tells the story of Maru Hosokawa, a samurai daughter who is thrust into a life opposite how she grew up. Her father has surrendered his sword with other samurai, assimilating into a role as a civilian merchant. As his work takes him further and further from home, she is left to find work of her own to help rebuild the family wealth — and protect herself, “just in case,” her father says. But during the summer festivals, ghosts begin appearing before Maru. Unsure of where to turn or who to trust, Maru fends for herself, facing an abusive employer, unreliable friends, and insecurity at home. In the search for answers, a kitsune offers to help in exchange for Maru’s aid in confronting a demon rampaging Kyoto at night. As summer passes on, more ghosts appear, plagues sweep through the city, and a stench of blood in the streets, and rumors of a samurai rebellion obscure reality, driving Maru to make a choice against all instincts, to save herself, her father — and Kyoto. Inspired by true historical events and based on myths of yokai, this story began taking shape first in 2010. With guidance by historians both in Japan and the US, subject matter experts in geisha, kimono, and samurai life, and countless beta readers and supporters, Natalie Jacobsen has carefully crafted this historical fantasy to reflect 19th century life during the tumultuous, society-altering leadership of Emperor Meiji… just with a few more ghosts.
My review
Having recently visited Tokyo, Japan, and being exposed for the first time to the concepts of Japanese Yokai and other supernatural beings, this book immediately caught my attention. During my short time in Japan, I also learned a little bit about the coming of the Black Ships to Japan in 1853, which marked the beginning of the end for the Tokugawa shogunate, and the last Shogun. This book, set in Kyoto in 1877 during the Meiji Restoration Era, addresses both of these fascinating aspects of Japanese history and culture.
The story revolves around a young girl, Maru, the daughter of a former-samurai, and her journey to understanding and acceptance of the end of the reign of the samurai and transitioning of her city (and country) into a new era of progress under the ‘young’ emperor.
Maru’s father has gone away, theoretically on ‘business’ and left her in the care of the geiko of an okiya – a traditional geisha house, in the role of shikomi, a junior position to the geiko and maiko of the house. Maru clearly dislikes her new role and is struggling to make the adjustment from the daughter of a former-samurai to her new life having to survive as a woman in a misogynistic, male dominated society where women were either wives, geiko/meiko (entertainer of men) or oiran (prostitute). The fate of women, in the new society under the Emperor, was worst than before and many girls had no option but to resort to prostitution in order to survive. Maru clings to the thin hope that her father will soon come for her and her life will return to how it was in the past.
Maru is traumatised by scenes of death and destruction from the past during the period of the demise of the samurai and daimyo, and has blocked out memories relating to her father and his decisions in order to adapt to her new situation. She is also surrounded by anxiety in the general population as people, especially women, struggled to integrate their superstitions and beliefs of the past with a new society including technology like trains. Maru hears stories about yokai and disappearing girls, and is conflicted about strange metallic smells caused by rain on the new electrical wires and which are reminiscent of blood. Many people believe the train and electrical wires are killing girls and feeding on their blood as well as causing general illness. All of this anguish and mental strain ultimately manifests as visions by Maru of various yokai and also kitsune, foxes that possess paranormal abilities that increase as they get older and wiser. Maru meets a kitsune which has the ability to shapeshift into various forms but which is ‘damaged’ by the new technology and needs her help to survive.
Maru must walk her path alongside her kitsune manifestation to find acceptance of her father’s decisions, her own rejection by her former friends and acceptance of her new life and progress in general.
This is an exciting tale with an abundance of amazing historical information and Japanese folklore woven throughout. There are exciting scenes of conflict and a grand finale which, the way I understood this story, are effectively all part of Maru’s spiritual and mental healing, in other words, in her imagination.
This is a clever and well research story, the history is fascinating, and the folklore mesmerising. It is a complex tale that requires attention throughout and the understanding of Maru’s mental state and internal conflicts for the story to pull together effectively.
An excellent book for people who are interested in Japanese history and folklore. It helps to have some knowledge and understanding of this era of transition and cultural shock in order to best appreciate the historical nuances and information presented.
I wrote this review as a member of Rosie Amber’s book review team. You can find out more about Rosie’s reviews and review team here: https://rosieamber.wordpress.com/.
Purchase Ghost Train from Amazon US here: https://www.amazon.com/Ghost-Train-Natalie-Jacobsen-ebook/dp/B0DHSXH8FM
Cooking Sun Tokyo
During my recent trip to Japan, TC and I attended a 10-course Japanese cooking class. It was great fun and the food was delicious.
The basis of Japanese cooking is dashi stock made with water and 1 – 2 kombu strips (dried kelp seaweed). The cold method for making good dashi stock is simple. Put water into a bottle with the kombu and let it steep overnight.
The dashi is used in all the recipes of which I am sharing two here.
Dashimaki Tamago (rolled egg)
Ingredients: 1 egg, 1 TBsp dashi, 1/2 tsp light soy sauce
Method:
In a small bowl, whisk the egg, dashi and light soy sauce.
Heat the prepared Japanese rectangular egg pan after drizzling the pan with a little cooking oil. When its hot, pour half the egg mixture into the pan ensuring the egg covers the full surface. Once the egg is starting to set, use cooking chopsticks to roll the egg to the far end of the pan. Pour the rest of the egg mixture into the pan. Allow it to go under the rolled egg by lifting the roll using the cooking chopsticks. Once the fresh egg mixture sets, roll it up over the previous rolled egg to make a bigger role. Remove from the pan and place on a bamboo mat. Shape the egg roll into a rectangular shape with patterns.
Grilled stuffed lotus roots with chicken
Ingredients: 30 gram portion of lotus root, 30 grams of minced chicken, finally diced Japanese leek, finally diced carrot, a little fresh ginger, 1 tsp sake, sprinkle of salt, 1/2 tsp potato starch, 1 TBsp dashi
Method:
- Dice Japanese leek and carrot and mix into chicken mince. Add the grated ginger, sake, salt and potato starch.
- Powder one side of the lotus root with additional potato starch. Stuff the meat mixture into the lotus root holes and layer the rest of the meat on top of the lotus root.
- Heat the frying pan and place the lotus root into the pan, meat side down. Cook for approximately 3 minutes. Turn the lotus root over, pour on the dashi and steam in the pan with the lid on for about 5 minutes until cooked.
About Robbie Cheadle
South African author and illustrator, Robbie Cheadle, has written and illustrated seventeen children’s books, illustrated a further three children’s books, and written and illustrated three poetry books. Her work has also appeared in poetry and short story anthologies.
Robbie also has two novels and a collection of short stories published under the name of Roberta Eaton Cheadle and has horror, paranormal, and fantasy short stories featured in several anthologies under this name.
You can find Robbie Cheadle’s artwork, fondant and cake artwork, and all her books on her website here: https://www.robbiecheadle.co.za/
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Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
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This post is sponsored by the My Backyard Friends Kid’s Book Series and WordCrafter Press.
The My Backyard Friends kid’s book series is inspired by the birds and animals that visit the author Kaye Lynne Booth’s mountain home. Beautiful illustrations by children’s author, poet, and illustrator, Robbie Cheadle, bring the unique voices of the animal characters to life.
Get Your Copy Now.
Heather Hummingbird Makes a New Friend (Ages 3-5): https://books2read.com/MBF-HeatherHummingbird
Timothy Turtle Discovers Jellybeans (Ages 3-5): https://books2read.com/MBF-TimothyTurtle
Charlie Chickadee Gets a New Home (Ages 6-8): https://books2read.com/MBF-CharlieChickadee
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Everyone is a Critic: “Yellowjackets”: Seasons 1 & 2
Posted: February 10, 2025 Filed under: Everyone is a Critic, Horror, Television review | Tags: Everyone is a Critic, horror, Writing to be Read, Yellowjackets 1 Comment
I hesitated watching Yellowjackets because the weird cover image, so I passed it by several times . I thought it must be a pretty dumb horror movie where everyone gets attacked by killer wasps or something, and I had no idea what the weird image of a person with horns and netting over their head could have to do with it. But for a lack of anything better to watch which I hadn’t seen, and an urge to sooth my hankering for horror, I decided to give it a try. And boy, am I glad I did. I’m usually not a binge-watcher, but with the recent cold weather in Colorado keeping me inside, I found myself watching four to five episodes per day. I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. I must declare this series totally binge-worthy.
The Yellowjackets are a girls soccer team bound for Nationals when their plane crashes deep in the Canadian mountains. In addition to the team members, Coach Ben Scott (Steven Kruegar), Coach Martinez(Carlos Sanz) and his two sons, Travis (Kevin Alves), and Javi (Luciano Leroux), and the student team manager, Misty (Samantha Hanratty). For a year and a half no rescue comes, and something terrible happened in those woods during that time, but the survivors aren’t talking. The Yellowjackets are winners, each determined to achieve their goals, but at what cost?
25 years later, the survivors are still haunted by the experience. Whatever happened, they have vowed silence about it, and no one is talking. But there’s a freelancer poking around and stirring things up, and the survivors are being blackmailed with a threat to expose all of their secrets. They band together to find and eliminate the threat, but they still harbor secrets, both old and new, and some have hidden agendas, as the story of what really happened out there in the wilderness is intermixed, and slowly revealed to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Everybody has secrets, both then, and now, 25 years later. And strange things are happening which stir memories of thier time in the woods for the survivors, drawing them together once more. Or maybe, it’s something deeper…, darker that is calling them. How far will they go to keep their secrets buried?
This series keeps you guessing. And just when you think you have it figured out, they throw in yet, another twist. Something happened out there in the woods, something horrific, and those who return to civilization are not unscathed. What happened back then affects each of the survivors in their present day life, no matter how hard they try to forget, and each is messed up in their own way.
This is a powerful series, featuring a vast cast of characters, with both teen and adult versions of several team members, as well as intrinsic storylines for each. Although a majority of the main characters are teenagers, the series deals with many adult issues and situations, as well as adult language. There are graphic scenes with blood, but it’s not slasher bloody. And I would not recommend for young children. It is a horror flick, after all.
I kept wondering how they were going to drag this story out over two or three seasons, but they did a great job of it, weaving the past in with the present, so that both storylines unfold simultaneously. The adult and teen actors are matched well and portray their complex characters consistantly to the characters’ experience. Season 2 ends on a cliff hanger, so I’m glad I chose to watch this series now. I don’t have long to wait for the new season. Season 3 premieres on February 14, 2025 on Showtime.
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For Kaye Lynne Booth, writing is a passion. Kaye Lynne is an author with published short fiction and poetry, both online and in print, including her short story collection, Last Call and Other Short Fiction; and her paranormal mystery novella, Hidden Secrets; Books 1 & 2 of her Women in the West adventure series, Delilah and Sarah, and her Time-Travel Adventure novel, The Rock Star & The Outlaw, her the first three books in her kid’s book series, My Backyard Friends, her poetry collection, Small Wonders, and her writer’s resource, The D.I.Y. Author. Kaye holds a dual M.F.A. degree in Creative Writing with emphasis in genre fiction and screenwriting, and an M.A. in publishing. Kaye Lynne is the founder of WordCrafter Quality Writing & Author Services and WordCrafter Press. She also maintains an authors’ blog and website, Writing to be Read, where she publishes content of interest in the literary world.
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This segment of “Everyone is a Critic” is sponsored by The Rock Star & The Outlaw and WordCrafter Press.
A time-traveler oversteps his boundaries in 1887. Things get out of hand quickly, and he is hanged, setting in motion a series of events from which there’s no turning back.
In 1887, LeRoy McAllister is a reluctant outlaw running from a posse with nowhere to go except to the future.
In 2025, Amaryllis Sanchez is a thrill-seeking rock star on the fast track, who killed her dealing boyfriend to save herself. Now, she’s running from the law and his drug stealing flunkies, and nowhere is safe.
LeRoy falls hard for the rock star, thinking he can save her by taking her back with him. But when they arrive in 1887, things turn crazy fast, and soon they’re running from both the outlaws and the posse, in peril once more.
They can’t go back to the future, so it looks like they’re stuck in the past. But either when, they must face forces that would either lock them up or see them dead.
Purchase Link: https://books2read.com/RockStarOutlaw
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Undawntech: Era of Cyberespionage
Posted: February 7, 2025 Filed under: AI Technology, Undawntech | Tags: AI Technology, artificial-intelligence, Cyberespionage, DL Mullan, Undawntech, Writing to be Read Leave a comment
Artificial Intelligence, or A.I., sees all, knows all, and judges all. From jury pools (https://www.infotrack.com/blog/ai-jury-selection) to banking records (https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbestechcouncil/2024/02/23/how-artificial-intelligence-is-reshaping-banking), A.I. is behind the scenes controlling outcomes, information, and government agencies. The question is: when is there an overabundance of hyper-artificiality versus a deficiency of human control?
Or, are humans too engaged with the shiny new toy to make appropriate choices?
The Era of Cyberespionage
Take for instance, China’s DeepSeek A.I. flooded the market, which drove people to its cheap price point and technical scope. The application may look good and contribute to problem solving, but at what price? Any Chinese corporation is owned by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) government at the tune of 51%. Add to that reality is that the Chinese people are conscripted to spy on their fellow citizens and everyone else around the world (https://thediplomat.com/2019/02/the-real-danger-of-chinas-national-intelligence-law) for the communist regime. You, your data, and your privacy are in the hands of an aggressive foreign government campaign to infiltrate other countries’ culture, norms and mores, as well as conduct influence operations onto an unsuspecting populace.
To illustrate further this idea of cyberespionage by an adversary, let’s scrutinize some popular applications: Tictok (https://www.heritage.org/big-tech/report/tiktok-generation-ccp-official-every-pocket and https://www.cnn.com/2023/06/08/tech/tiktok-data-china/index.html), WeChat/QQ (https://nspirement.com/2019/03/22/ccp-tracking-private-messages-on-chinese-social-media.html), as well as DeepSeek (https://abcnews.go.com/US/deepseek-coding-capability-transfer-users-data-directly-chinese/story?id=118465451) are available to the public, in order to track and surveil their users. The Social Credit Score implemented by the CCP is in effect here.
Defending the Indefensible
The reaction mustered by the ego begins: “But I am an artist, creator, musician, and/or writer, I need to reach my people! I am an independent creator. All marketing falls on my shoulders. How can I become an international sensation without going international?”
Response: How can you reach anyone, if you lose your soul? If you are going to be a victim of cyberespionage at home or abroad, then be a really smart victim.
Counter the Cyberespionage
What can creators do to protect themselves from overt government, foreign and domestic, overreach into our private data and lives?
Creators can reach their audience as long as they do a few extra steps. For one, do not download or use any application from China. That would be the ultimate protection. However, if you cannot resist the siren song of the CCP, then have a separate device or phone to use these applications. A burner phone with no trace to your personal accounts of other social media, banking, or purchases would be a wise alternative. In the age of A.I., no one can be too careful with their data.
Don’t believe China is the only problem.
American software has backdoors for the NSA and other Five Eyes (FVEY)countries to spy on Americans without due process (https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/confirmed-windows-10-government-backdoor/c72e091a-3f56-4c7f-a4b8-9de912de5cd6, https://www.gnu.org/proprietary/proprietary-back-doors.en.html). In the United States, probable cause and a warrant signed off by a judge are critical to obtaining private information or property from an American, but our privacy and rights are ignored for national security, which is unconstitutional, unlawful, and illegal.
That sets up the corporate governance angle to cyberespionage. Corporations steal users data as a commodity. Accounts that are FREE, aren’t free. Your data and privacy are being sold to the highest bidder in a modern version of the slave trade.
No fear, if there is nothing to hide.
In other countries, bootleg purses (https://daxueconsulting.com/counterfeit-products-in-china), music (https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/soviet-hipsters-bootlegged-banned-music-bone-records-180957505), and movies (https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2023/08/09/russian-cinemas-screen-pirated-copies-of-barbie-a82102) are commonplace. If your book becomes popular, but not a sensation, then copies of your hard work could be sold for profit and no royalties go your way (https://austinkleon.com/2023/02/09/on-piracy-and-bootlegged-copies-of-my-books).
How does Creators defend their works?
Copyright your creation in the USA, and in other countries where your creative items are sold, would give you legal standing in a criminal case. Don’t use your foreign social media to publish books on other platforms using the same device or cellular/smart phone. Purchase a good virus defender on all of your technology: computer, phone, or anything else that you create on. And, always keep a downloaded, original version of your creations: books, photos, images of created works, music, and videos, preferably burned on a disk for safe keeping. If a legality arises, you have proof the work is yours.
Conclusion
In the ever-changing landscape of technology and its intrusion into our privacy, humans need to safeguard their information like never before. Sometimes due diligence can make the difference between selling books, audiobooks, and videos of creative works, or being a victim of piracy from within and without.
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DL Mullan holds a Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology. Her lecture, Spacescapes: Where Photography Ends; Imagination Begins, debuted at the Phoenix Astronomy Society, which then led to her Sally Ride Festival lecture invitations. Her presentation, Bridging the Gap between Technology and Women, won her accolades at a community college’s Student Success Conference. She has been a panelist at speculative fiction, science fiction, and other regional conventions. Her digital exhibition pieces have won awards at convention art shows, as well as garnered her Second Premium at the Arizona State Fair. Currently, Ms. Mullan’s artistic renditions are seen on book covers, blog sites, and various merchandise. As an independent publisher, she uses her technical background to innovate the way she perceives the creative arts.
As a writer, DL Mullan loves to stretch her imagination and the elasticity of genres. She writes complex multigenre stories in digestible and entertaining forms, be it poetry, short fiction, or novels. Her science, history, mythology, and paranormal research background is woven into her writings, especially in Undawnted’s Legacy Universe. Ms. Mullan’s creative endeavors are available in digital and print collections, from academia to commercial anthologies. She is also an award-winning poet.
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Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
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This segment of “Undawntech” is sponsored by The D.I.Y. Author and WordCrafter Press.
Being an author today is more than just writing the book. Authors in this digital age have more opportunities than ever before. Whether you pursue independent or traditional publishing models, or a combination of the two, being an author involves not only writing, but often, the publishing and marketing of the book.
In this writer’s reference guide, multi-genre author and independent publisher, Kaye Lynne Booth shares her knowledge and experiences and the tools, books, references and sites to help you learn the business of being an author.
Topics Include:
Becoming Prolific
Writing Tools
Outlining
Making Quality a Priority
Publishing Models & Trends
Marketing Your Book
Book Covers & Blurbs
Book Events—In Person & Virtual
And more…
Purchase your copy today: https://books2read.com/The-DIY-Author
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This Month Only! February Discount Rates at Write It Right Quality Editing Services
Posted: February 5, 2025 Filed under: Editing, Write it Right Editing | Tags: February Sale, Write it Right Quality Editing Services Leave a comment
Right now at WordCrafter, you can book Write It Right Quality Editing Services for your editing and proofreading needs at special February discounted rates. This month only, you can book editing services for 2025 at the discounted rates below to make your writing shine.
February Discounted Rates
Two Page Developmental Analysis (30,000-60,000 words) – $200
Three Page Developmental Analysis (70,000-90,000 words) – $300
Full Developmental Edit – .02 cents per word
Line Editing/Copy Editing – $2.00 per page
Poetry – $1.00 per page
Proofreading – $1.00 per page
If you’re interested in booking services at Write It Right, contact me at KLBWordCrafter@gmail.com with Write It Right February Special in the subject line.
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Writer’s Corner: My Self-Editing Processes
Posted: February 3, 2025 Filed under: Editing, Writer's Corner, Writing, Writing Tips | Tags: Editing, Kaye Lynne Booth, Writer's Corner, Writing to be Read 6 Comments
Editors can be expensive. WordCrafter offers editing services at low prices, but even then, the words add up and I wouldn’t say it’s cheap. As an independent author, it’s not always easy to come up with the money to hire an editor, but it is imperative to have another set of eyes go over every word of my manuscript, so I can publish a quality product. As The D.I.Y. Author, I’ve come up with a few methods of accomplishing this without straining my pocketbook too much.
Novel Length Works
For novel length works, once I finish the first draft, I do one pass over of self-editing when the manuscript has sat for a day or two. I’ve heard that it’s important to let it sit for a while, so I do, but I limit the time it sits, keeping the story fresh in my mind. This is where I find the weak spots which need enhancing, embellishing my descriptions and extending or cutting dialog. In The Rock Star & The Outlaw 2: Seeing Doubles, I also used this opportunity to plant little easter eggs which connect back to the first book, for those who have read it.
When that is done, and the necessary edits have been made, I do another run through, reading it aloud. When you read aloud, you catch errors that a silent reader might skim over. Sometimes I can find a beta-listener to help me with this. This is where I do my developmental edit, looking at things like if the storyline flows smoothly, and if my characters are staying true to who they are. My beta-listener doesn’t have to be versed in the craft of writing, because their job is to offer an opinion from the listener’s, or reader’s, perspective.
Only when this is completed is the manuscript ready for a second set of eyes. Editing is a difficult job, and I think it’s important to send your editor or beta-reader as clean a manuscriptas possible. It saves making major changes at the end, too. If I can’t afford to pay an editor, I seek out a beta-reader to do the job. I have a few other authors who I exchange services with who can be called upon for this task.
To finalize, I do a final proof read before I publish, making sure all the ‘t’s are crossed and ‘i’s dotted. During this part of the process I use the editing tool which come with MS Word and ProWriting Aid Everywhere, which are both free and help me spot places which could be worded better and possible misspellings. Both of editing programs are AI powered, but they don’t always agree on corrections, or agree on things which should be changed. And they don’t have the final say. I still reserve the privilage of acceptance or rejection of all AI suggestions.
This system is not fullproof, and I use a professional editor whenever I can. When writing The Rock Star & The Outlaw 2: Seeing Doubles, I referred back to the first book a lot, and found many errors that all of these processes had missed. I’m now in the process of revising and correcting those errors, so I can republish the first book, before releasing the second.
Short Fiction
For short fiction, I follow the same basic processes as novel length works, but because they are collaborative works, it is much easier to get a second, and sometimes even a third set of eyes on each story. When putting together an anthology, I read story individually and request the desired edits from the authors. For my own stories, I recruit a beta-reader to go over it while I’m editing everyone elses. (This is after I’ve read it through twice; once aloud.)
After I receive the revised stories, I put the manuscript together, and give it yet, another read through, checking for any errors which may have been missed. Once it is formatted and ready to publish, I send the entire manuscript out to each of the authors, requesting that they proof read their story and one or two others, so that each story has at least two or three sets of eyes, other than my own, scrutinizing it. This collaborative form of editing ensures a quality product and it doesn’t cost me or any of the contributors anything but our time and keen eyes.
Author’s Note: You can find these editing tips and more writing tips for writing and publishing yourself in The D.I.Y. Author.
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For Kaye Lynne Booth, writing is a passion. Kaye Lynne is an author with published short fiction and poetry, both online and in print, including her short story collection, Last Call and Other Short Fiction; and her paranormal mystery novella, Hidden Secrets; Books 1 & 2 of her Women in the West adventure series, Delilah and Sarah, and her Time-Travel Adventure novel, The Rock Star & The Outlaw, her the first three books in her kid’s book series, My Backyard Friends, her poetry collection, Small Wonders, and her writer’s resource, The D.I.Y. Author. Kaye holds a dual M.F.A. degree in Creative Writing with emphasis in genre fiction and screenwriting, and an M.A. in publishing. Kaye Lynne is the founder of WordCrafter Quality Writing & Author Services and WordCrafter Press. She also maintains an authors’ blog and website, Writing to be Read, where she publishes content of interest in the literary world.
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Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
________________________________
This segment of “Writer’s Corner” is sponsored by The D.I.Y. Author and WordCrafter Press.
Being an author today is more than just writing the book. Authors in this digital age have more opportunities than ever before. Whether you pursue independent or traditional publishing models, or a combination of the two, being an author involves not only writing, but often, the publishing and marketing of the book.
In this writer’s reference guide, multi-genre author and independent publisher, Kaye Lynne Booth shares her knowledge and experiences and the tools, books, references and sites to help you learn the business of being an author.
Topics Include:
Becoming Prolific
Writing Tools
Outlining
Making Quality a Priority
Publishing Models & Trends
Marketing Your Book
Book Covers & Blurbs
Book Events—In Person & Virtual
And more…
Purchase your copy today: https://books2read.com/The-DIY-Author
