Tag: author anthony avina

Interview with Author Oscar Fernandez 

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

Ever since I was a teenager I took an interest in writing. Since then, I have been keeping a journal where I document my life, travels, experiences, and mostly my thoughts about my current affairs, the way I view myself the world, and how I need to proceed to accomplish the life I want to live. One thing I noticed while writing though, was the ease by which words kept on flowing from my hand into the paper… So I kept on writing! On this note, I love to write on paper with a fountain pen; it feels smooth and somehow intellectual. I do this mostly for my personal writing on my journal, but for business writing I most definitely use my laptop.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

What inspire me to write my book was a genuine desire to demystify cybersecurity for non-technical individuals who may be entrepreneurs of business owners. Another reason to write the book came from the fact that I am an authorized distributor of a cybersecurity software, and based on the intricacies of the software, I realized how important it was to break down -even further- how cybersecurity works; in particular for entrepreneurs, and small to midsize businesses (small business: 1-99 employees; mid-size businesses 100-1000 employees). In a way, it is a venue to saying: here is cybersecurity for the rest of us!

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

The theme I would love for my readers to take with them is to realize that cybersecurity is not complicated as it may seem, and that it is more affordable than ever. Not only that, but base on a simple analysis of the current technologies use by a business, one can determine what are the technologies needed to protect them. So while the reader is going through the handbook, they can literally pick and choose what is best for them based on what areas of the business they need to protect. For instance, is it the WIFI? Their VPN? Or protecting the business from phishing attacks? Etc. etc.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I have been working in technology for the past fifteen years, and throughout this time, cybersecurity kept on taking a bigger and bigger role for companies and individuals alike. For the most part, I have worked as a consultant -a one man operation,-  so one day I asked myself, how can I grow my practice to create a bigger impact while helping clients protect themselves? So cybersecurity came to mind as a topic that it is extremely important -besides their day-to-day operations.- Not only that, but I didn’t want to become just another business providing cybersecurity solutions; I wanted to differentiate myself through the demystification of cybersecurity. 

Another aspect that drew me to write this book, is the realization of how vulnerable all of us are to cybersecurity attacks. We are note safe, at all! From identity theft to ransomware attacks, and everything in between, we are a moving target. So I wanted to become part of the solution. 

5) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

I am a brand new author, and this is my very first book. So I haven’t have enough exposure in social media to know which one can work. So far, the book is published in Amazon both in the Kindle and paperback versions. And hopefully soon on an audible version as well.

6) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

The advice I would give to aspiring authors is to not wo worry too much about the format itself; just start writing. As one moves along with the writing process, one can begin structuring it. Eventually, all will come into place as you read what you wrote while providing flow, and structure. For publishing, there are companies out there that will format the file for you, so no worries there.

7) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

My mind is always on the go -for better or for worse,- but I would love to continue writing and make it be my living. To start, I would love to create a series of the book I just wrote, and eventually move to another genre, for instance, social and cultural affairs and even a personal biography. I feel there is so much material in my head waiting to be written!

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About the Author

Oscar is an avid technologist with over fifteen years in the IT industry. He has worked and consulted with IBM, Apple, Anthem, Genentech (Roche), small to mid-size businesses, non-profits, city government, and most recently with TC Energy.

His ability to understand business processes, network security and find IT solutions to fulfill business needs is unparalleled.

Oscar holds a master’s degree in Global Management from Georgetown University and ESADE School of Business. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Notre Dame de Namur University, and he also obtained an Entrepreneurial Management Certification from UCLA Anderson School of Business.

Oscar is Cronus Cybersecurity’s CEO, and through his networking abilities and international experience, he has led the company to new highs. 

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C5465RP7 

Website: www.cronuscyber.com

Instagram: cronuscyberbiz

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/oscarfern

Guest Article: Jumpstart Your Writing Side Hustle: Turning a Hobby into a Business by Virginia Cooper

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Guest PostLeave a comment

Photo Credit: Ketut Subiyanto via Pexels

Jumpstart Your Writing Side Hustle: Turning a Hobby into a Business

Are you looking to turn your passion and hobby into a profitable business? Many of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs have started this way – from kitchen-table businesses to tech giants. If you have an idea, the right approach, and plenty of dedication, you can make it happen. Here are some tips from Author Anthony Avina’s Blog for turning your hobby into a business.

Part-Time Business

A great way to start is by turning your writing hobby into a side hustle. This will help you test out the waters without having to invest too much time or money. You can keep your day job while working on your side hustle in your spare time until it becomes profitable enough to transition into full-time work. This also allows you to gauge interest in your product/service and adjust accordingly before committing fully.

Create an LLC

Once you decide to become serious about your business venture, registering as an LLC is important for protecting yourself and other stakeholders involved in the business. With the help of a formation service, you can register your small business quickly and easily online with just five simple steps. 

Registering quickly is important since it will allow you access to key resources such as venture capital funds, banking credit lines, and even free marketing support services offered by banks and chambers of commerce.

Establish a Business Plan

Developing an effective business plan is key for any successful venture regardless of size or industry. Your plan should include research about competitors in the market, production plans, financial forecasts, strategy for marketing and promotion, goals, staffing plans, etc. 

Writing up this plan will give potential investors an idea of what they are investing in and will also help provide guidance throughout the life cycle of the project. It’s also recommended that entrepreneurs update their plans regularly so they remain relevant over time despite changing market conditions or external factors influencing their businesses negatively or positively.

Come Up with a Marketing Plan

Having an effective marketing strategy is essential for any company looking to increase sales and gain more customers. A well-thought-out marketing plan should include research about target audiences, advertising campaigns, website design considerations, and more. Utilizing all available channels effectively can help maximize exposure leading up to launch day and beyond.

Build Your Online Presence

In today’s online marketplace, a well-designed website that accurately represents your brand is crucial for successful marketing. Providing customers with user-friendly ecommerce platforms can build trust quickly and lead to increased sales. Offering a superior web presence can give you an edge over competitors who don’t prioritize these aspects.

It’s important to use SEO strategies to get the most exposure online, so look into how to use keywords strategically. You’ll also want to rely on PDFs over other file types for online posts because they are the most SEO friendly. You can try this page to convert your other digital files into PDFs for free. Just drop in the file and let the tool work its magic!

Locate Funding

To secure funding for their project, startups can explore various options such as angel investors, crowdfunding sites, and grants from government programs. Careful research must be done to ensure that the best possible investment resources are obtained, which will help the project run successfully without running out of funds halfway through. This is crucial for completing the project successfully.

Use a Unified eCommerce Platform for Your Store

Unified ecommerce platforms can help to facilitate a smoother online purchasing process for customers, resulting in an increased likelihood of sales taking place. This is due to the better user experience, which can translate to higher profits over time through increased customer loyalty. Providing better service than the competition can help entrepreneurs gain an edge and incorporate features that can further improve the overall user experience.

Get Your Writing Business Started

Starting a business requires dedication and commitment to make your entrepreneurial dreams come true. It entails considering several factors, such as funding the operation, setting up an LLC structure, and facilitating online purchases via an ecommerce platform. By following these essential tips, you can increase your chances of success in the long run.

Are you looking for more great writing-related content? Then check out Author Anthony Avina’s Blog!

You can learn more about writer Virginia Cooper using this link!

http://learnaliving.co/

Better Latte Than Never by CC Bridges Blog Tour + Guest Post

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Blog Tours, Book Events, Guest PostLeave a comment

When I start writing a book, I always seem to know one character better than the other. That means I have to work a little harder at getting to know the second character. I find that as I write the story, I learn more about the characters, and then I usually have to go back and revise the beginning with what I’ve learned.

It was no different when writing “Better Latte Than Never.” When I started writing this book, I really got Finn. He is, after all, like me, a writer.

But there is more to Finn than that. 

Finn writes incredibly popular books under the pen name Morgan Heart. All of his novels are tragic love stories, where one half of the couple always dies at the end. Originally his first novel had a happy ending, but before he submitted it, he went back and changed it. Why? Because it’s not realistic.

Finn doesn’t believe in happy endings. 

In “Better Latte Than Never”, he confesses to Enzo why. His own parents had the greatest love story he’d ever seen, only for his mother to die young of cancer. His father never recovered from her loss, dying of a heart attack a few years later. This tragedy shaped Finn, made him the person he is today, writing his parents story over and over, although he doesn’t even realize he’s doing it.

Finn has a bubble around his own heart. He expects every relationship he has to fail. He keeps looking for the cracks, knowing an ending must come at some point. Because of this, he never lets himself relax, knowing something tragic is going to happen. He’s so focused on the ending, that sometimes he sees problems where there aren’t any.

When I started writing, I knew I had this poor shattered character, someone walking around with a broken heart but unwilling to do anything about it. Who could heal his heart? 

That’s where Enzo steps in. I knew he had to be completely different, that he had to shine a light on all of Finn’s shadows. But at first, I didn’t know who he was other than he worked in the coffee shop.

It became very clear that Enzo was an artist. And in contrast to Finn, he had absolutely no problems with his own creativity. In fact, his art is how Enzo sees the world. He frequently thinks of things in shades of paint.

Enzo doesn’t immediately heal Finn’s heart. No, first he heals his soul, opening Finn to a new world of creativity, bringing him back to the time before his writer’s block. 

But Enzo isn’t just Finn’s muse. In a now deleted line from my first draft, I have Enzo angrily tell Finn he’s “not his manic pixie dream boy.” Enzo has his own dreams and problems. He’s estranged from his parents. His best friend and roommate is moving out. He’s got to figure out if he wants a real 9 to 5 job or if he wants to keep trying to make it with his art. And that’s when Finn steps into his life and turns everything upside down.

I hope you check out “Better Latte Than Never” to see how these two manage to make it work, and the incredible art they make together.

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CC Bridges has a new MM contemporary romance out: Better Latte Than Never. And there’s a giveaway.

Finn’s love stories always end in death.

He’s made millions writing as author Morgan Heart and his fans can’t get enough of his tragic love stories. But a bad breakup results in a killer case of writer’s block, and Finn needs to try something drastic to fix it, like. . .going to a coffee shop to write. There’s got to be a reason it’s a cliche, and in his world, cliches sell.

He shouldn’t be flirting with the hot, younger barista. He shouldn’t be using said beautiful barista as another character to kill off in his new book. And he sure as hell shouldn’t be getting his heart involved, especially since he’s still keeping his real identity secret.

Working at his aunt’s coffee shop is a temporary thing. . . that’s been going on for eight years now. One day soon Enzo is finally going to make it big with his art and move on. But when Finn walks into the cafe – confident, mature, put together, everything Enzo is not – he can’t help developing a huge crush, even if Finn is a customer.

As their relationship deepens, Finn’s deceptions and Enzo’s insecurities threaten to undermine everything they are starting to build together. If they can each confront their inner demons, then Finn might be writing a happy ending for the first time in his life.

Better Latte Than Never is an m/m age gap, coffee shop romance featuring a slow burn attraction that grows steamier than an espresso machine.

Warnings: Mention of partner betrayal, death of character’s parents in the past

Universal Buy Link

Giveaway

CC is giving away a $10 Amazon gift card with this tour:

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Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b60e8d47291/

Excerpt

Better Latte Than Never meme

Yeah, the cafe was so damn predictable. Except for this new guy.

Enzo downed his cake and tossed the plate into the trash. He should really square up with his aunt before she left for the day. Still. What if the guy left before Enzo could say anything? He’d make his rounds with the regulars after, but right now, Enzo couldn’t contain his curiosity about the stranger.

He threw on his apron and sauntered over to the corner where the stranger sat half-hidden behind a laptop. If this went wrong, Enzo could claim he’d come over to offer a refill. Not to, you know, see if the guy’s smoldering look when Enzo had walked in the door meant anything.

“Hey.” Enzo cleared his throat. “Thanks for coming to my birthday party.”

The guy looked up from his computer, those gorgeous eyes moving slowly upward in a way that made Enzo want to blush. His jaw was straight and covered with a smattering of stubble. Enzo wanted to rub his hands along it and enjoy the feel of the soft roughness against his fingertips…and in other places. There was an adorable sprinkle of freckles across his sloped nose. But his lips—perfect and pink and a bit too full for a man—were what made Enzo’s thoughts move straight into the gutter.

“It was my pleasure. Enzo, right? I’m Finn.” He held out his hand.

Enzo took it, squeezing tightly. Finn had a firm handshake, but his palm was soft and warm against Enzo’s. When he pulled away, Enzo curled his hand into a fist, wanting to savor that feeling.

“Finn? Is that a nickname?”

“It’s short for Finnegan.”

“Ah, a nice Italian name.” Enzo grinned and, happily, Finn laughed at his joke.

“What brings you to our cafe?” He winced at how terrible that sounded. Apparently Enzo completely forgot how to flirt when it was a customer he thought was hot. He could charm the old ladies like nobody’s business, but a cute guy? Nope.

Finn nodded at his laptop. “Came for the Wi-Fi and stayed for the coffee. And then the surprise party.”

He picked up his fork and stabbed the last piece of cake left on his plate. “This cake is amazing.”

“Everything my aunt bakes is amazing.” Enzo watched the bit of chocolate make its way to Finn’s mouth and the sensual way his lips closed around the metal of the fork. That shouldn’t be turning Enzo on right now, but God, if he didn’t want to follow that piece of cake with his own tongue against Finn’s lips.

“So what do you make that’s amazing?” Finn asked with a wink, and that was when Enzo knew they were in business, or at least on the same wavelength.

He could feel the blush creeping up his cheeks. “I don’t bake, but I do brew a mean cup of espresso.” “I’d love to have a taste.”

“You’ve got—” Enzo gestured to his own face. A smear of chocolate had found its way to Finn’s chin.

“Here.” He picked up a napkin from the table and brushed it away.

Finn took the napkin, his fingers tangling with Enzo’s for a moment. His eyes were smoldering. “Thank you.”

Author Bio

CC Bridges spent her childhood visiting other worlds in books, comics, and the starship Enterprise. It’s no surprise that she ended up a librarian, being surrounded by the books she loves so much. She writes about amazing worlds with honorable heroes. Her hobbies include paying money to get locked in a room for an hour so she can solve puzzles to escape, along with the aforementioned reading. She lives with her husband and son on the Jersey Shore. She is currently pursuing an MFA from Southern New Hampshire University

Author Website: https://www.ccbridges.net

Author Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/ccbridgeswriter

Author Facebook (Author Page): https://www.facebook.com/ccbridges10

Author Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccbridgesauthor/

Author Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2780312.C_C_Bridges

Author QueeRomance Ink: https://www.queeromanceink.com/mbm-book-author/cc-bridges/

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Aoh by Jennifer Renson Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young woman is forced to return to Egypt after being cared for in Babylon by the queen, now forced to protect the woman who holds the Pharaoh’s heart in her hands as untold dangers swirl all around them in the book Aoh by Jennifer Renson.

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The Synopsis

Upon fleeing her homeland of Egypt after her village is attacked, Aoh finds herself living in an immaculate Babylonian palace under the care of the queen. For a young peasant girl, it’s a life of luxury beyond her imagination. But unforeseen circumstances cause Aoh to return to Egypt, where she finds herself living in another palace disguised as a servant. She must face many dangers if she is to protect herself and the woman who holds the pharaoh’s heart. Will Aoh survive and find love in a place where deception and loyalties rule?

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The Review

This was a compelling and captivating read. The blend of YA and historical romance really elevated the story to new heights. The incredible imagery the author utilized in their writing allowed the vast deserts and grand palaces of Babylon and Egypt to come to life so beautifully on the page. The tension that built both during Aoh’s time in Babylon hiding her identity and her time serving the Pharaoh and her role as a protector was so well placed here and allowed the reader to feel the political and social problems being stoked by the royalty and those scheming behind the scenes.

The heart of this story rested in the fantastic character development, especially with the protagonist Aoh. The story felt like a full hero’s journey for her, as she went from this young woman with a bit of wonder for the world outside her own to a powerful warrior and stealthy protector as she moved through the noble houses of the elites. The bond she formed with Laggus was great to see play out, and the way the story highlighted the need to end the violence and bloodshed between people who fight because they come from different backgrounds or areas altogether was great to see unfold in the action and suspenseful moments of the narrative.

The Verdict

If you were to cross the politics of Game of Thrones with the action of 300 and the rich romance and character growth of The Mortal Instruments Series, then this will be the book for you. Author Jennifer Renson’s “Aoh” is a must-read historical fiction meets romance and YA novel, and the incredibly rich settings and deeply emotional and engaging character growth this book develops, as well as the open-ended ending, will have readers wanting more of this incredible novel. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Jennifer Renson-Chiappetta’s passion for writing began in childhood. Her writing career spanned from articles in Lost Treasure Magazine to her self-published poetry books; Delightfully Dark: A Collection of Poems and Tales, Eo: Go, walk, ride, sail, pass, travel and Uncharted. She is the author of the modern-day fairy tale novel Carousel. Presently she is a mother and wife; she enjoys spending her time with her family and friends, writing, crafting, specifically cross stitching and reveling in Victorian Era ambiances while living in New Jersey. 

Social media links:

Instagram  @jenny.renson Jennifer Renson-Chiappetta (@jenny.renson) | Instagram

Facebook Book and Poetry by Jennifer Renson Facebook

Goodreads  Aoh by Jennifer Renson | Goodreads

Purchase links:

Amazon.com:  Aoh: Renson, Jennifer: 9798397459280: Amazon.com: Books

Barnes & Noble: Aoh by Jennifer Renson, Paperback | Barnes & Noble® (barnesandnoble.com)

Batman: One Bad Day: Catwoman #1 by G. Willow Wilson Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Author G. Willow Wilson and artist Jamie McKelvie share a unique and captivating story of Selina Kyle that showcases a key part of her past and a haunting new villain in the book Batman: One Bad Day: Catwoman #1.

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The Synopsis

Selina Kyle, a.k.a. Catwoman, is the greatest thief that Gotham City has ever seen. She’s effortlessly stolen countless items of immense value over the years and successfully evaded the GCPD and Batman. But when Catwoman finds out an item from her past is being sold for way more than it used to be worth, it sends Catwoman into a spiral, and she’ll do everything in her power to steal it back. Batman tries to stop her before she goes too far, and a mysterious figure known as the Forger will change Catwoman’s life forever. The all-star creative team of G. WILLOW WILSON (Poison Ivy, Ms. Marvel) and JAMIE McKELVIE (The Wicked & The Divine, Young Avengers) unite for this epic story!

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The Review

This was such a compelling read. Author G. Willow Wilson has written for some of my favorite comic book characters, from Poison Ivy and Wonder Woman to even helping craft the Ms. Marvel series for Marvel Comics. So I knew going into this that the story was going to have a truly complex and heartfelt narrative driving this equally complex character. Catwoman has always been so fascinating, as she walks the fine line between villain and anti-hero. The beautiful illustrations and the melding of bright lights against a dark and gritty background made this story so superb to behold.

To me, the heart of this narrative came in Catwoman’s backstory and the emotional connection she made with the characters in this story. The story honed in on one of her and her sister’s earliest memories involving their mother, and the path that took her on not only forced her to look back at her life and the decisions she’s made but on the impact her own actions have had on those around her. The chemistry between her and Batman was on full display, and the understanding between the two of them was phenomenal to watch unfold. 

The Verdict

Captivating, entertaining, and thoughtfully written, author G. Willow Wilson and artist Jamie McKelvie’s “Batman: One Bad Day: Catwoman #1” is a must-read DC Comics graphic novel and an essential read for all Catwoman and Batman fans! The twists in the narrative, the mysterious new villain, and the heated chemistry between the Bat and the Cat, along with the emotional relationship between Catwoman and her sister, made this a must-read graphic novel. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

G. Willow Wilson is the author of the acclaimed novel THE BIRD KING (2019), co-creator of the Hugo and American Book Award-winning series MS MARVEL (2013-2018), and has written for some of the world’s best-known superhero comic book series, including THE X-MEN, SUPERMAN and WONDER WOMAN. Her first novel, ALIF THE UNSEEN, won the 2013 World Fantasy Award for Best Novel, was a finalist for the Center For Fiction’s First Novel Prize, and was long-listed for the 2013 Women’s Prize for Fiction. In 2015, she won the Graphic Literature Innovator Prize at the PEN America Literary Awards. Her work has been translated into over a dozen languages. She lives in Seattle.

https://www.gwillowwilson.com/

Jamie McKelvie is an artist and writer from the United Kingdom. 

He’s best known for his creator-owned comic series THE WICKED + THE DIVINE and PHONOGRAM, both with writer Kieron Gillen. He has worked for Marvel doing character designs for CAPTAIN MARVEL and MS MARVEL among others. He wrote the CAPTAIN CARTER series for Marvel and did the art for CATWOMAN: ONE BAD DAY with writer G. Willow Wilson for DC. He also designed the Armored Advanced Suit for the SPIDER-MAN PS4/PS5 video game.

Jamie’s produced artwork for bands such as CHVRCHES, ART BRUT, and TEGAN & SARA. He co-directed the video for the CHVRCHES song Bury It with Darren Price and the animation studio Mighty Nice.

He’s currently working on Kickstarter exclusive issues of The Expanse: Dragon’s Tooth, a 12-issue series from Boom! by Andy Diggle and various artists and his own creator-owned projects for DSTLRY.

https://www.jamiemckelvie.fyi/

A Writer’s Guide to Launching a Book: The Ultimate Book Launch and Author Platform Planner by Ashley Earley Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Author Ashley Earley shares helpful tips and tricks to make social media more of a priority to authors and help utilize it to increase sales and views on their books in the book “A Writer’s Guide to Launching a Book: The Ultimate Book Launch and Author Platform Planner”.

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The Synopsis

Today, whether self-publishing or going the traditional route, a writer can’t get away with publishing a book without the resource of social media. Despite the growth and near necessity of social media, it is a confusing and difficult thing to master. As a writer, social media likely isn’t at the top of your list of priorities, but because of its resources and significance, it’s time to put it on the list. But where do you even start? What are you supposed to do with social media? What should you post? How can you use it to sell your book?

In A Writer’s Guide to Launching a Book, author and editor Ashley Earley provides ways in which one can increase their visibility as an author and a brand to increase book sales. In A Writer’s Guide to Launching a Book, you will learn:

  • To create an author platform and use it to create a following/fanbase.
  • The definition of “platform” and what a book launch is.
  • The different types of social media platforms and how they can be useful to you as an author.
  • Utilize social media to launch the publication of your book.

Not only is this the resource for your social media needs, but the resource to learn how to apply social media to the publication of your book. If you’re serious about building an author platform tailored to you and your writing, look no further than A Writer’s Guide to Launching a Book: The Ultimate Book Launch & Author Platform Planner.

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The Review

The author does a wonderful job of crafting a guide and book that lays out the need for authors to be their own promoters in a way for their own books. The succinct and clear direction the author takes when outlining these steps was great to see, as it showcased the relatability the material has to authors specifically and spoke to the mental and emotional core behind the author’s struggles with social media and promotion in general.

The steps the author outlines are perfectly crafted, allowing the reader to follow a clear and concise pattern that gives authors the power to reach directly to their readers. The author does a great job of speaking to both nonfiction and fiction writers and emphasizes the need to create online content to promote your book to readers specifically. The attention to detail the author gives when talking about specific social media sites and trends that can help an author grow their audience, as well as their own author network, made this a compelling book to get lost in.

The Verdict

Memorable, honest, and thought-provoking, author Ashley Earley’s “A Writer’s Guide to Launching a Book” is a must-read nonfiction writer’s guide to both launching a book and building a solid author platform that readers will be excited to be a part of. The book allows authors to return to the guide time and time again, discovering new information and helping form the platform they need to connect with the readers waiting to discover their work. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Ashley Earley grew up in Georgia, where she spent most of her time running wild in the woods of her backyard, building forts to create her own fantasy worlds, obsessing over books, and experimenting with her writing.

Today, she lives in Colorado with her dog and still spends her time devouring any book she can get her hands on, writing, and editing for her clients at Earley Editing, LLC. In May of 2021, she graduated with distinction from University of Colorado Boulder, receiving a B.A. in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing. She also enjoys snowboarding, exploring, annoying her dog, constantly eating chocolate, and sharing her writing adventures on Instagram.

Her Thriller/Suspense short story, Chasing Hair of Gold, won first place in the 2016 Writer’s Digest Popular Fiction Awards.

As a writer, she leans into fantasy or horror due to her love of all things creepy. As an editor, she loves a little bit of everything. Give her that steamy, forbidden romance, give her vampires, or even that young lovey-dovey stuff with all the twists and turns!

Visit her at: www.ashleyearley.com or www.earleyediting.com for her professional book editing services!

Ashley would love to hear from her readers:

Instagram: @ashley_earley

Twitter: @ashley_earley

TikTok: @ashley_earley

Blog Tour: Try the Tofu (Real Werewolves Don’t Eat Meat Book 4) by Karenna Colcroft Guest Post + Promotional Post

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Blog Tours, Book Events, Guest PostLeave a comment

My Co-Writers

Some writers have human co-writers with whom they work on books, or at least are friends with other humans who help them with the writing process. I do have human writing friends.

I also have cats. Two of them. Both of whom watch me judgmentally every time I sit down to write anything. Or look at social media. Or watch TV. Actually, they watch me judgmentally anytime I do anything other than feeding them…

In the photo you can see them judging me for wanting to take their picture. The tortoiseshell is Shinobi; the tuxedo cat is Moony. Shinobi is as old as my writing career; we got her as a kitten in May 2009, while my first book was published in March of that year. We’ve had Moony since March 2014. (NOTE to blog host: Insert attached photo here and delete this sentence, please.)

Like many pet owners, I talk to my cats. Including about plot points in my books. They aren’t usually very helpful in figuring things out, though. Their ideas simply aren’t useful.

Writing can be a very solitary profession. One sits at their computer day after day hoping coherent words come out of their fingers and onto the screen. As a writer, I wrangled with plots, with the characters—who can be even more stubborn and judgmental than my cats sometimes—and with the realization that once I finish writing, I have to edit the dang thing. While I do have friends, and know other writers, and have friends who are writers, most of the time I’m on my own doing this.

Except for the cats. While they do occasionally wander off to chase each other, grab a snack, or, in Moony’s case, chirp at the birds congregating outside my window, they’re always here. They aren’t big fans of the fact that I write about werewolves, though they give me disdainful looks when I suggest werecats instead, but nonetheless they stick by me, as long as I remember to feed them.

I wonder if Kyle Slidell, the vegan werewolf in my Real Werewolves Don’t Eat Meat series, would want a pet cat? Then again, his mate Tobias probably wouldn’t let him have one…

As with all of my books, my revising and re-editing of the just-released updated version of Try the Tofu (Real Werewolves Don’t Eat Meat 4) was accomplished with the help and encouragement of Moony and Shinobi. I hope their fur didn’t get stuck in the pages.

Try the Tofu - Karenna Colcroft

Karenna Colcroft has a new MM paranormal romance out, Real Werewolves Don’t Eat Meat book 4: Try the Tofu. And there’s a giveaway.

As Alpha Tobias Rogan and his mate Kyle Slidell prepare to travel to the regional Alpha gathering, Tobias receives a threatening phone call. If he brings his mate to the gathering, Kyle will not return to Boston. But stubborn Kyle, believing the threat is actually against Tobias, refuses to stay home.

Tobias’s foreboding is proven correct when a visiting stranger challenges Zane Wolfskin, Arkhon of the Northeast Region, to a fight for rank–and wins. Tobias and his allies learn that the challenge was part of a larger plan to destroy their region, something Tobias will not allow. To prevent disaster, Tobias must challenge the new Arkhon himself. But can he survive the attempt?

Warnings: reference to past sexual abuse and trauma, PTSD, violence

About the Series:

Kyle Slidell didn’t move to Boston expecting to be changed into a werewolf. But that’s what happened. He can’t control whether he shifts at the full moon, but he can damn sure continue being vegan–even in wolf form.

Tobias Rogan, Alpha of Boston North Pack, never expected to fall in love with anyone, let alone a man. A male Alpha is not supposed to have a male partner. But when he meets Kyle, he’s immediately attracted. And after Kyle is changed, Tobias realizes the truth: Kyle is not only his partner, but his mate.

The werewolf world isn’t a simple place, and Kyle and Tobias are thrown into the middle of conflict within and among the packs of the United States–a conflict that extends all the way to the top of the werewolf hierarchy. Can they and their love survive what they face?

Get It On Amazon

Giveaway

Karenna is giving away a $10 Amazon gift card with this tour:

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Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b60e8d47290/?

Excerpt

I entered our room and closed the door. Kyle flopped down on the bed again. “Sleep.”

“Food,” I said. “Plus our bags will be here any second, so you wouldn’t be able to get much sleep.” I sat on the bed beside him. “What you said earlier.”

“Yeah.” He sat up and took my hand. “I love you. Things have been rough as hell on both of us the past few months, and sometimes it’s hard not to think that they’ve been rough because of us. But we didn’t make bad things happen, and I wouldn’t have gotten through everything if it hadn’t been for you. I don’t want to lose you.”

“I love you too.” My heart melted. No matter how much I wanted to shut him out, I didn’t know whether I would ever actually be able to do it. We had been through hell, no question, with all the times I’d almost lost him, not to mention my own brush with death. But we’d faced it together. He’d brought back a part of me I hadn’t even realized existed, let alone missed, until he made me aware of how long I’d lived without it.

That didn’t mean I was ready to let go of the idea that we might be better off apart. A lot would depend on what happened over the next several days. I couldn’t stand the prospect of him being in danger, and if things went as badly as they had the last time we’d come to Zane’s, I would have some serious decisions to make.

“Tobias, don’t,” he said softly. “Please don’t think about the bad things. We’re here together in our honeymoon suite.” He chuckled. “Zane put us here for a reason, you know. I don’t know if you’ve talked to him about us or if he just figured something out the way he seems to do, but he had an ulterior motive for giving us this room.”

“Yeah, he probably did.” I had to smile at that. Zane was not only tolerant of one of his alphas having a male mate, he wholeheartedly supported the idea. In September, he’d treated Kyle and me the same as any other mated pair, and that meant more than I could express. Just as some werewolves were stuck in the past when it came to the idea of a woman being in charge, some were mired in prejudice and hatred of those who were “different.” Pretty ironic considering that werewolves were different by definition.

But for Zane, Kyle and I weren’t different. He wouldn’t accept any hatred toward us from any other attendees of the gathering, and if he suspected Kyle and I were having problems, it wouldn’t be surprising for him to try to fix them.

“There’s going to be a lot going on.” Kyle moved closer against me. “I know you’ll be busy with all the meetings and things, and I know you have a lot on your mind. But please, Tobias, while we’re here, let’s try to spend some time on us. I want things to be good again.”

“Yeah, me too.”

I put my arm around him and held him tightly. My mate. My lover. The man who had changed my life for the better, bringing me so many good things I’d been missing without even realizing it. I loved him, even if things weren’t great between us right then. He was right to have insisted on coming with me. We could spend time together and try to make things better.

Back in Boston, I had to attend to the pack’s needs. Here, even though I would have to sit in meetings that dealt with anything from changes in protocol to sorting out which pack had the right to hunt deer near the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, I didn’t have to be in charge, and that meant I might have time to actually talk to Kyle. And to listen.

We both turned at the same time and our mouths were together before we had time to think. His tongue touched my lips, and I opened to let him in. The kiss was both tender and rough and sent heat and arousal through to my core.

Author Bio

Karenna Colcroft

Karenna Colcroft lives just north of Boston, Massachusetts, and has been in love with the city since childhood, though she has yet to encounter any werewolves, vampires, or other paranormal beings in her travels. At least none that she knows of. Though since in her non-writing life, under another name, she offers services as a channel and energy healing practitioner, it could be said that she herself is a paranormal being. The jury’s still out on that.

Karenna is a polyamorous, nonbinary human who splits time between the home she shares with her husband and the one she shares with her committed partner. She also has two adult children and a bonus son, three grandchildren, and two and a half cats. (Half in terms of time the cat lives with her, not in terms of the cat itself…)

Find out more about Karenna online at http://www.karennacolcroft.com or https://www.facebook.com/KarennaColcroft. You can also sign up to receive a free short story, and be added to Karenna’s mailing list, at https://karennacolcroft.com/get-your-free-short-story/.

Author Website: https://karennacolcroft.com

Author Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/kimramseywinkler/

Author Facebook (Author Page): https://www.facebook.com/KarennaColcroft

Author QueeRomance Ink: https://www.queeromanceink.com/mbm-book-author/karenna-colcroft/

Author Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Karenna-Colcroft/author/B0031HAOUK

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Interview with Author Shari Lopatin 

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

Let’s see, I was born and raised in Phoenix, Ariz. (where I still live today) to two liberal, Jewish parents who moved from Queens, N.Y in the 1970s. They were both teachers and always encouraged my creativity. I’ve been writing since I was a kid. In fact, I wrote my first short story when I was seven years old. It was about a girl who befriends a group of aliens named after different foods. I was always a creative, hyper, and somewhat neurotic kid, and I think writing just gave me an outlet. It also became a buffer against relentless bullying, and as life went on, writing became my therapy–my way of processing the world and everything happening around me. I started my career as a daily newspaper reporter, but had to leave journalism due to the Great Recession. I then got into strategic communications and public relations, but I never stopped writing creatively on the side. I just love great stories! 

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

The story of how “The Condemned: A memoir told through selected early works of short stories, essays, and poetry” came together is kind of random and haphazard. I’ve always written my way through every major life adversity, until COVID hit. I just couldn’t write during 2020; I was honestly traumatized. Things got a little better in 2021, but I struggled to regain my creativity and motivation. I guess that’s a typical trauma response. I began writing a little in 2022, then lost my job due to a COVID layoff, so I stopped. By 2023, I felt depleted and seriously missed writing, yet I could not come up with anything creative. In an effort to reignite my writing muscle, I started re-reading a bunch of older works from my past, much of it unpublished. 

What I found was a plethora of stuff I’d written throughout the first 20 years of my formative life: poetry from high school and college, MySpace rants and essays from my early twenties, fictional short stories from my early thirties. I realized that when combined, these writings told my story, that of a millennial coming of age through the 1990s and early 2000s while navigating typical young adult issues exasperated by historical events like The Great Recession, September 11, and personal injustices like Antisemitism. I decided to select my best work from those years, lightly edit it, then combine it into a memoir that became “The Condemned.”

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

“The Condemned” has a variety of deeply emotional pieces that touch on themes still relevant today such as mental health, the search for home, the awkwardness of dating, and love and heartbreak. But ultimately, the most prevalent theme is one of feeling othered. I often struggled to find myself within a confusing and sometimes ostracizing world, especially once faced with Antisemitism that came from a personal and unexpected place. However, I managed to pull through many of those obstacles and found a greater sense of self-acceptance, hope and truth. My hope is that others find empathy, solidarity, and maybe even healing by reading my words and stories. 

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I’m not sure! I don’t think I was particularly drawn to memoir; it just seemed to be the right genre for the collection I was putting together. As for the short stories and poetry, I’ve always been drawn to deeply emotional writing, probably because I’m highly emotional. I really enjoy the genres of contemporary fiction (which my short stories fall into), as well as dystopian fiction (which my debut novel, “The Apollo Illusion,” falls under) because they make you think, and they make you feel. 

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5) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

Substack! I wouldn’t consider Substack a social media site necessarily, more of a cross between an email newsletter and blogging platform. However, they’ve woven elements of social media into their platform and really built a tool for writers to grow their followings. My favorite aspects of Substack are that you can use it for free, you can monetize when it’s right for you, and you can access the email addresses of your followers. That means if you ever decide to leave Substack, you can take your followers with you. I sort of see Substack as the YouTube for writers, but with more control. I currently publish my newsletter on Substack, “Rogue Writer,” where I write original serialized fiction, personal and political essays, poetry, and occasional book or movie reviews. I also share updates and deals on my latest books there. Consider signing up as a free or paid subscriber, and stay in touch with me that way!

6) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

Write, write, write. If it’s a blog, or privately within your journal, or just on your personal computer, always write. Always work to improve your craft. And READ. Don’t just read what you think others enjoy. Read what excites you. Get to know what works, and what’s boring. Then, incorporate those strategies into your own work. Finally, be patient and persistent. You won’t improve overnight, but if you keep working at it, you’ll see yourself getting better each year. One day, you’ll write a novel that’s good enough to pitch to literary agents. When that time comes, keep pitching, even after years of “no’s,” because it only takes one YES! And if that yes doesn’t come fast enough, self-publish. Get your work out there and start building your readership while you keep pitching to literary agents. Life is too short to wait. 

7) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

Oh yes! I have one completed novel that I finished several years ago on which I’m currently doing a hard edit/rewrite. I’m hoping to find an agent for that one. I also have another novel that I’m halfway through writing and hope to finish a year from now. Finally, I have a new serialized fiction story that I’m planning to publish in my Substack newsletter, “Rogue Writer,” a few months from now. It’s called “Once Upon a Time on Half Day Road.” Go sign up for “Rogue Writer” as either a free or paid subscriber so you don’t miss it! 

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Author Bio

Shari Lopatin writes stories that matter. An award-winning journalist in her earlier years, she now writes novels that tie into modern-day social issues, serialized fiction, short stories, personal and political essays, and poetry. Over the course of her seventeen-plus year career, Shari has worked as a newspaper reporter, magazine writer, public relations professional, social media manager, and earned the title of “Cat Mom of the Year.” Her next book, “The Condemned: A memoir told through selected early works of short stories, essays, and poetry” is publishing Sept. 9, 2023. Pre-order the Kindle version now for just $2.99! Prices will go up after publication, so get it for less while you can. 

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Guest Post: Inspiration behind Dead End Deal by Allen Wyler

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Guest PostLeave a comment

I am so thrilled to host author Allen Wyler as he discusses the inspiration behind his award-nominated novel, Dead End Deal!

My 2013 Thriller Award nominee, Dead End Deal, has recently been republished by Stairway Press and is available on Amazon in either paperback or Kindle format. 

This fast-paced thriller was originally published by Astor+Blue (New York), but when they were sold to a London publishing house, I didn’t sign a contract with them for a variety of reasons. And so, without a publisher, the book simply stopped being sold and promoted. Then a year ago I pitched the idea of republishing it to Stairway Press, my present publisher. They jumped on it. 

Got the idea for the story when I was a guest lecturer in Seoul and was writing stand-alone medical thrillers instead of my present cybercrime series. Here’s a thumbnail synopsis of Dead End Deal:

When top-gun neurosurgeon John Ritter is framed for the murder of patients in a Seoul Korea hospital he becomes the focus of an intense police manhunt in addition to being the target of an international hit man. Without a passport or friends, he must find a way to escape Korea and stay alive long enough to return safely to the United States to clear his name and eliminate the bounty on his life. 

This book remains one of my favorite works. I hope that readers will download a free sample from Amazon and give the opening chapters a test read: 

Amazon.com: Dead End Deal: 9781949267778: Wyler, Allen: Books

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Brief Bio:

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Allen’s thrillers have twice been nominated for the prestigious Thriller Award. He has served on the Board of Directors of the International Thriller Writers and is also an active member of the North American Crime Writers and Mystery Writers of America. He lives in Seattle.

Go to: https://allenwyler.com/ for more details.