Lauren Hope

Conferences: A Help or Hindrance? PART II

2011-12-21T01:50:00.000-06:00

**This is Part II of my first conference experience. If you missed Part I, start there!

All right, after some kinks in getting registered for my first writers conference, I had finally arrived.

I was physically prepared - dressed appropriately with the necessary author/manuscript paraphernalia - mentally prepared - I knew my characters and their story better than anyone after all - to make my pitch to the agents and editors in attendance. I had one chance to tell them briefly about my latest novel and hope they liked it enough to request to see more.

After the rocky start I had experienced in registration, everything else had to be smooth sailing from here on out, right?!

When I arrive, I step into the plush lobby area. I am early, so in my spare time, aside from meeting and greeting, I decide to go and find those who helped me clear up the mistake of my being taken off the registration and pitch list and clear the air by talking with them and thanking them for their help. Especially the one person I finally spoke with on the phone that actually gave me a solution. I find her and thank her. It was a bit awkward, me smiling and hem-hawing ... explaining the whole journey to that final woman who had assisted me. I was trying to tell her the whole story so she'd understand why it had been such a journey for me and how much I did, indeed, appreciate her help. In the end, she smiled feebly and said, "Actually, I realized after looking at your registration that pitch sessions are only allowed for full conference registrations." (Remember, this was a three day conference; I had only registered for one day). "Technically, you shouldn't even be able to pitch ... Or you could register for the full conference."

Gulp. I paused, stared at her. "Oh-kay. Do you need me to do that?"

"Well, if you'd like, you can go to the registry table and pay over here."

Pay? ... More? .... I thought I'd already paid?

She directed me to a table I saw upon entry, handed my transaction over to someone manning the table. This new lady shuffled some papers, spoke up at me. "It's sixty dollars."

"Sixty?"

"Yes. In addition to what you've already paid, the difference for a full registration is sixty dollars."

Gulp. Swallow. Fresh heat to the face. "Okay."

I handed over my credit card, praying that now this conference would indeed be worth it since I had just added sixty dollars to my already (what I considered) steep fee. Nevermind that the conference hadn't noticed that snafu or that they were waiting until I was there, standing in front of them, to bring the matter to my attention, or that I had already missed one and a half days of a full three day conference I was about to pay for in full. In my mind, what they were asking of me would be like a restaurant charging you too little on your check, then upon your next visit, they tell you of the mishap, then ask you to make up that difference from your last meal. That's silly, right? Who would do that?

Well, the conference workers did do that. And I did pay. Swallowing my frustrations, I handed out sixty more dollars so I could finally do these darn pitch sessions. And I didn't say what was really on my mind since, once again, I didn't want word to travel to that room filled with agents and editors (who can actually help me do something with my book) that I was "difficult". No one, including me, wants that reputation.

After all, this wasn't that huge of a deal, just one more layer of icing, I suppose, added to an already heavy, tilting, not-so-stunning cake to begin with.

I was tired by this time. Tired, frustrated and feeling like I had been duped if you want to know the truth. But what kept me hanging on (and smiling, and speaking only good words) was what I finally got to do at my appointed time ... PITCH!

My first appointment went over without a hitch. It was quick, to the point, and the editor loved my idea. After a few questions about my main character, I received a card and a request to send the entire manuscript. Score!

My second and final appointment was a little longer, with the same great end result. This agent and I got along very well, had nice conversation and she loved my manuscript idea. My pitch was short, to the point, and suspenseful enough for her to ask, as well, to read the whole novel. Two for two!

Had I come all this way, went through all the scheduling/registration nonsense to finally achieve my goal? If all the annoyances and frustrations and conflicts got me closer to selling my book, I'd be okay with that. I can take trials with triumph.

So what was the end result of what turned out to be {a long and more complex than I expected} first conference experience?

Short version:
The editor rejected. I have still haven't heard from the agent (even after a three and half month wait and a gentle reminder to respond).

Long version:
Though not off to a stellar start in my quest to sell book #3 at this conference, I was determined to do what I came to do - pitch my manuscript. I was gong to do it with confidence, with a smile on my face, and hopefully with a request by an agent/editor at the end of my pitch.

Success! I had two requests for my full manuscript! Yep, I was happy. Almost ecstatic, but unfortunately, if there's one thing you learn in this business, it's to be prepared for rejection. So instead of ecstatic, I resorted to extremely (and cautiously) happy.

Very soon (within a day or two), I sent the full manuscript to each person who requested, along with a thank you and appreciation for their time.

The first appointment, the editor, responded soon after with a boiler plate rejection. The email stated assistants didn't like certain things about the manuscript, so I'm not even sure whether she personally did or didn't like it or even read it herself. That may be business standard, but it was still quite disappointing considering we had met face-to-face, she had enthusiastically requested a read, then gave such non-beneficial feedback .

Well, another one bites the dust, and we move forward. I appreciate now, and did then, the time she gave me to initially pitch the book.

Like I mentioned above, the second pitch, the agent, has yet to respond. After recieivng the manuscript, she predicted one month for a response. It has been approximaltely almost four months. I do not mind at all waiting, as I have heard the approximate time to expect feedback from someone reading a full manuscript is anywhere from six to eight months. But I have contacted her a handful of times, with gentle, polite nudges. No response thus far.

And so, as with much of the publishing world ... I wait. I wait for this agent's response. I will once again do so with cautious, but hopeful, excitement. If she responds favorably, then I'll resort to ecstatic. If not, I'll still keep going, plugging away doing what I've been doing since this journey began in 2007.

Though I'm not sure if going to any conferences will be in that future plan! :)

There you have it - my first experience attending a writers conference. I'm not sure it will be my last, though I am certain it will be my last attending that particular conference. And wow, that was a lot to write - and I'm sure a lot to read, but I wanted to get it all down and show what an experience, it in fact, was. Also, as an author, I like to read other's experiences, always welcoming the chance to learn. I hope you feel the same. I realize too not every one's experience is like this, and I'm sure some of you have wonderful stories from conferences - "I met my agent there!" "I made my first sale!" - but this was my honest, real, first time experience.

Finally, take from my personal experience what you will - Are conferences for you or not? Will they get your book sold? Are they a help or hindrance to your career? That's for you to decide!

Have a conference experience you'd like to share? I'd love to hear from you! Leave a comment or I can feature you here on my website and we can offer more insight to those reading.

Happy Holidays - and conference or no conference - may you have the best of luck in all you aim for this season and in the coming year!

Conferences: A Help or Hindrance? PART I

2011-12-09T13:37:00.001-06:00

Happy Winter to you all! Hope your Thanksgiving was full of food, family, love ... and always, a good book.

Alas, I believe I just broke my New Year's Resolution to you and myself that I made at the beginning of 2011. I said last year that I wanted to write at least once a month with news, happenings or thoughts, just so the website would be updated on a semi-regular basis. And in January I vowed to make time for doing what I love (all things writing). I have achieved that goal every month this year ... except for last month, November. Sorry! I really did intend to post something (I even have two posts in the works), but somehow I looked down and today was December ... the 9th! What?! At any rate, I will make up for it with more information this month, and I'm willing to overlook my nine day mishap if you are, all right? :)

So, what's going on the the writing world? Much of the same for me ... shopping out books I've already written, getting ideas, writing new books, and bringing news to you here. Also, I've had a writer "first" in the last few months and I've been debating whether or not to share that. But I decided that when I started this journey, I invited you along, and since you're with me, I'm going to be as honest as possible about all the highs, lows, triumphs, and frustrations of becoming and continuing to be a published author.

Here goes!

So I did it, I attended my first ever "Conference." You hear so much about them in the writing world. There's conferences for Romance Writers, Mystery Writers, Young Adult Writers, the list could go on and on. Suffice it to say, many of them are wonderful, filled with 'big names' in the business, appealing opportunities to meet and greet, educational experiences with speakers and pertinent topics, and some even offer the enviable pitch sessions where a writer can submit their story, face to face, with a professional who can actually make things happen - a real agent or editor my friend. Exciting stuff, huh? Well, it sounded so to me too. As a writer, I have generally tried to avoid contests. (Giving someone money just to read your manuscript sounds too Vanity Press to me at times. And yes, I know contests are beneficial and can lead to getting your name and manuscript in front of the right person(s), but I personally have either opted out of contests or carefully considered the validity of said contest or the probability of the persons involved seeing my manuscript liking its particular genre or its writing before I enter. Let your comments or arguments against my opinion commence if they must.) :) Bottom line, I have entered few contests and been in even fewer critique groups. My motto and focus has been more of a pull yourself up from your bootstraps type - Work hard, write the best story you can, and submit. I figure if I'm not getting bites, or hearing the same critiques over and over again from agents and editors, there's my contest comments and group critiques all in one.

But, conferences and their opportunities have appealed to me.

And so I did it. I registered, paid my money (a pretty fair amount, $$$), and began the preparations and plans to attend.

While the conference I had chosen did have many of the positives I mentioned above (meet and greet, speakers, etc.) my main goal in attending was for the pitch sessions. This conference had half a dozen agents and editors that would be on hand, looking to acquire new authors and ready to listen to my pitch about my latest manuscript. In registering for the conference, one had to choose, among other options, whether or not they would like a pitch session. I, of course, chose Yes. At the conclusion of registration and payment, I was informed that I would receive follow-up communication confirming the registration and requesting preference for my pitch sessions. (Obviously, not every agent/editor attending would represent the genre you, as an author, write in, so it was important to state whom you would like to pitch to so the time would be mutually beneficial and the writer wouldn't be pitching a manuscript that particular agent didn't represent.)

I did receive an email confirming my payment and registration, but never any follow-up in regards to a pitch session, nor a request for my first, second, or third choices. (The numerical choices are based upon "first come first serve", as they should be, so those authors who register first obviously get their first choices, meaning they will likely get to pitch to the agent/editor they feel will most appreciate or be most interested in their work.) As I was not one of the first to register, I realized I may not get my first or even second choices in pitching, but I did intend to at least get an agent/editor who represented the genre of my manuscript. If not, as I stated above, what was the point of using my time, and theirs, to pitch a story they would not represent?

Finally, as the day drew nearer to the conference, and I still hadn't heard anything, I emailed the 'contact@....." address on the conference's website. An Executive Director for the conference emailed back saying she did not have my name down as a registrant (I had registered, paid, and received confirmation of payment approximately two weeks prior), but she would recheck her records and could I go ahead and send her my choices for my pitch sessions, ranking them in order. I did so promptly.

The next correspondence I received was from a different conference coordinator and included the actual pitch session schedule (that also went out to all conference attendees). My name was no where on the list.

Understandably, I was confused and just wanted to get the situation worked out. After all, I had been preparing to attend this conference for over a year and had already paid the fees (over $100) only to be excluded from what I considered my primary reason for attending the conference.

After a polite request to look into the issue and inform me of how to move forward, I received an email from the Pitch Session Coordinator who stated "I think we deleted you by mistake {from the list}."

Ummm, okay. Here we are, days away from the conference, and I was just deleted by mistake. Whoops? Needless to say, I was not happy. I was also keeping in mind that the writing world (like most of the world) is actually very small. I wanted my behavior and my reaction to the situation to be respectful and professional - I did not want to come off as difficult or a diva, since I am neither! :) Truthfully, I just wanted the situation resolved and my name on that list.

After some back and forth communication, I was offered a spot on a Sunday (the conference was a three day event, I only registered for Saturday) with an agent (we'll call "C") that wasn't any of my choices because she didn't come close to wanting/representing what I write. I, once again, trying to be ever so polite, explained my point of view that I could not attend on Sunday, and pitching to "C" would likely prove non-beneficial.

At long last, I finally got off the computer, used that great invention called the telephone where two people can speak, and talked with someone who helped me finagle the schedule and get my name on the list for Saturday with two of the agent/editor choices on my list.

Whew. That was easy enough, right? :)

Okay, so forget all that. Move forward. Don't dwell on the annoyance of the registration. Things happen, people make mistakes. Stay positive and keep your eyes on your original goal of going to the conference to pitch.

Registrations done. My name's on the list. I had made it.

Now, I'm at the conference. I'm in my professional attire, equipped with my folder of information - author bio, blurbs on my manuscript, pages from my manuscript - I'm ready to wait my turn and pitch!

... But was it that easy??

Tune in for Conferences: A Help or Hindrance - Part II to find out!

{My apologies if you feel I've left you stranded ... I intended to only make this one post, but it ended up being more of story than I realized ;), so I broke it into two parts. Come back for the end - I'll post next week!}

High Hopes

2011-10-21T11:25:00.007-05:00

Hi all -

Recently while making sure my Amazon author page was up and running properly, I came across this. (You have seen my new Amazon author page, right?)

This is a screen shot of that neat little box that tells you that Lauren Hope book buyers are also purchasing other books... and what other authors they are choosing.

Here's some more.

These were screen shots from different visits on different days when looking at my Author Page or the Hidden Shadows or Chasing Shadows page, but neat nevertheless, right? It gives me high hopes that if I'm linked in with a crowd like that, one day I too will find the success I'm seeking doing what I love.

So I ride on high hopes today. What about you, what do you want to do? What are your high hopes? Keep trying to achieve them - you might just make it someday!

Giving Up (or When Does Rejection Get The Best of You?)

2011-09-16T14:26:00.002-05:00

Happy {beginnings} of fall to you all! My favorite time of year is here and I'm determined to soak up every wonderful fresh breath, every beautiful falling leaf, every golden color. Guess you get the picture, I love fall.

What I don't love (and really, who does?) is rejection. Rejection hurts. It stings. Your pride falls, your hope wanes, your aspirations seem far away or never-to-be-reached. Bottom line, rejection in any form isn't fun.

And so it goes with writing. Most people know that becoming and being an author is a life wrought with rejection (though that doesn't make it easier when you're actually living it as the author), and it's a subject I haven't broached enough here. Sure, this site exists to promote my work, make The Shadow Series available for you readers, but this is also about my journey. I've posted several times on writing, query letters, how to get published, and similar subjects, but I haven't focused much on what, for many, is the most difficult part of life for an author.

There are countless manuscripts - from the past, to be written, and sitting in slush piles right now - that are great! So why aren't they out there, being read? The simple answer is those manuscripts (and their authors) are being rejected ... they haven't been published. No matter if your manuscript is the best or worst, if you're a first time author or multi-published, it still stinks to be rejected.

I should know - it happened to me just last week. And I'll tell ya, it didn't feel good. After a few tears (yes, I'll admit it) and some beautifully encouraging words from my equally beautiful Momma, I decided to suck it up and keep on keeping on.

Of course, it was not my first rejection, nor will it be my last, but for some reason, this one hurt. It wasn't that I was clamoring for that agent in particular (the one who sent me the big fat "NO") but the words she used made me feel hopeless, helpless. I've chronicled my fairly quick journey to The Shadow Series being published. I knew then I was blessed to be living my dream. I also had no notions that any remaining novels would be published as quickly, but I did think (know?) they would be. With determination and hard work, I'd get my next deal. But as time ticks on, and rejections pile, it's harder to keep that perseverance alive. Some days, you just want to give up. Am I right? (Please tell me I'm right ... You've wanted to give up too sometimes, haven't you?)

The time of signing my contracts for Hidden Shadows and Chasing Shadows and their subsequent publications was a wonderful, fulfilling time in my life. Also fulfilling was continuing on, gearing up for my next story and the next, and getting both of them on to paper. Not so fulfilling is this waiting game. Waiting to find the right agent, the right publishing house, being at just the right place at just the right time to see Screaming To Be Solved find its home. And yet, writing is still my ultimate fulfillment. The story, the characters, the joy of creating, that's the true happiness in this road we authors call a career. If my stories find their way to a shelf, an e-book store, well, that's all the better - for you and me. :)

Once again I'll say, rejection is hard. Harder when you have a goal in mind, when you want so bad to reach it - when you've given so much time and so many hours and so much of your creative self to a project. Only to have it knocked down, analyzed, rejected, over and over...and over, again. It's hard not to bow your head, stick it in the sand, close-up shop and tuck your writing away. If your words never see the light of day, they won't be able to be critiqued, right? Wrong! Well, I guess technically a stranger - agent, editor, etc. - won't be critiquing (and rejecting) if you don't put it out there, but what also could you be missing if you give up? Don't let the fear keep you down! Don't let the fear hold you back! You could be missing something wonderful!

I can't honestly say I'm still not a little bruised about last week's rejection. But bruised does not equal broken. I'll get all the way back up soon. I'll keep writing. Readers will keep reading. And I'll keep coming to you here, bringing news from the (sometimes tough but always interesting) world of an author.

Someday, Screaming To Be Solved will be there for you to read, I just know it.

Thanks for continuing with me on the journey - here's to hoping it's filled with more "Yeses" than "Nos." I wish the same for your journey as well, whatever that may be.

ExcerpTuesday

2011-08-08T09:36:00.003-05:00

Below is a link to Tuesday's feature on Chris Redding's Blog for ExcerpTuesday.

Link to feature.

Check it out if you have a chance; there's a new excerpt from Hidden Shadows, and a new photo of me and my sweet pup.

Writing the Series

2011-07-28T06:30:00.003-05:00

My friends from SMRW and I have supplied some thoughts on Writing Series for our July newsletter.

Series and continuing characters have always been popular (Sherlock Holmes, anyone?), but in recent years, the series may be at an all time high in popularity. With all the sequels, trilogies, and multiple books and movies we see following after the original, it's clear that we all love a good series. Should you follow this trend as a writer, and if so, how?

Read on to find out. My article "Writing the Series: What I've Learned as a Series Author" is on page 11 and continued on page 13.

Hope you're staying cool in this sticky summer heat. Curl up with a good book in the beauty of an air conditioned room if you're blessed enough to have it. And thank the Lord for the book and the cool room. :)

I'll be featured next week on Chris Redding's blog where she'll profile Hidden Shadows. Come back on August 2nd and I'll post a link so you can check it out.

Click the link above to download the newsletter in its entirety, or read below. (To zoom in, hover over the bottom right corner of the frame and a menu bar will pop up with options.)

Reviews by YOU

2011-07-05T12:08:00.001-05:00

Hello Friends,

Hope you all are having a great summer. I'm doing great here! The husband and I took a much needed vacation to lovely Williamsburg, Virginia. It was fascinating learning about the courageous men and women who landed at Jamestown and survived all the miseries and hardships there. What a treat too to "go back in time" through Colonial Williamsburg and explore what life was like for the brave and intelligent people who fought hard for the freedoms we all enjoy today. We also had the pleasure of staying in some bed and breakfast inn's around the area and met some wonderful new people. How fun and enjoyable to get to know people from around the country...if you're one of my new friends I met along the way and are reading here now - Hi and thanks for stopping by! :)

So, let's talk books! What about reviews? I've received some flattering ones in times past from reviewing sites. (Night Owl Romance; The Long and Short of It; ; Romance Reader at Heart; Simply Romance Reviews) But what about what the readers think... what you think? If you've read either book in the Shadow Series, I'd love for you to share your thoughts. Not only is it beneficial and exciting for me to see (yes, even the not-so-positive ones), it lets other potential readers know how someone who has already read the story feels and what the plot is about. Would you take the few minutes you'll need and go to one of the sites I'm posting below? Next time I see ya, I'll give ya a big kiss for it ... or a signed copy of my next book - I'll leave the choice up to you. :) You can review the books at the place you purchased them, or whichever seems most user friendly to you.

Places to Review The Shadow Series:

Amazon (Hidden Shadows) *Click on the button that says 'Write your own review'

Amazon (Chasing Shadows) *Click on the button that says 'Write your own review'

Barnes and Noble (HS) *There is a 'Write a review' tab in the bottom right corner of the page.

Barnes and Noble (CS) *There is a 'Write a review' tab in the bottom right corner of the page.

The Wild Rose Press (HS)

The Wild Rose Press (CS)

Thank you so much, I really do appreciate if you take time to share your review. Happy summer friends.

Creating a Writer's Life

2011-06-09T09:39:00.003-05:00

Once again friends I'd like to share with you the informative and interesting newsletter my talented author friends over at SMRW put together each month. Although there is no article from your's truly this month (Sorry- I can't believe it but I'm still focusing on moving and getting things settled!) but there are some other contributors with great advice and insight into how to write, submit, and most importantly in today's market, promote your work.

Here's a link to June's newsletter or you can read the newsletter in its entirety below. (To zoom in, hover over the bottom right corner of the frame and a menu bar should pop up with options.)

Vacation comes none to soon for me and the husband this month. So excited to go and visit the sites that were the beginnings of our great country (or at least the European migration and beginnings). Hope you all find a great book to keep you company on these steamy summer days. Until next time friends.

Want to Get Published?

2011-05-06T12:07:00.009-05:00

Are you an aspiring writer? Would you love to see your work on the shelves, or maybe more apropos in today's world, on the digital shelves? Check out what many talented authors have to say about the often confusing subject of where to publish in this digital age in SMRW's May Newsletter. You'll find my article "Finding a Home for Your Labor of Love" too (page 7). Deciding what to do once you've finished your manuscript can be daunting; hopefully this will give you some insight.

In other news, happy May! It's one of my favorite months in the year and my birthday is on Wednesday to boot (May 11). Thanks Momma for giving me a chance at life, and best of all, for giving me a heart for the written word. Happy Mother's Day to all you Mom's out there who give the most incredible gifts to your children - life and love.

Once again, here's a link to my article. Or read the newsletter in its entirety below. (To zoom in, hover over the bottom right corner of the frame and a menu bar should pop up with options.)

Third Book? You Decide!

2011-04-07T14:29:00.005-05:00

You read it right friends, you are going to help decide when and how my third novel, Screaming to Be Solved, arrives. Some of you awesome, loyal fans and readers have been waiting too long for this novel's debut (see, I told you publishing was a slooow process) and I have too! Let's get the ball rolling ... and you can tell me how. Here's your 2 options:

1. Go a route you readers of The Shadow Series are familiar with, having an ebook released first, then a print version that'll be available through various chain bookstores and online catalogs. The price(s) will be very similar to those of Hidden Shadows and Chasing Shadows (around $11.99+tax for print, $6.99 and under for ebook).

2. No print copies at all. Screaming to Be Solved would only be available as an ebook. But - and here's what I think is the big allure 'cause I'm a reader too - the total cost for Screaming to Be Solved would be less than $2.00! That's right, you could purchase, download, and read as many times as your heart is content, my newest suspense novel, Screaming to Be Solved, for $1.99!

So, what do you think?? Are you all print lovers still? Like holding a book in your hand? Won't buy it otherwise? Or have you ridden on the digital wave and are fixed to your ipad, Kindle, etc.?

Would you purchase Screaming to Be Solved at that great low price, or would you bypass it due to its digital only nature?

Let me know what you prefer... after all, it is you I want to please the most - the story is for you. Here's your chance to give your opinion - comment away friends and readers!

Q & A

2011-03-24T15:48:00.001-05:00

In case you missed my interview and subsequent questions from readers this winter when I was featured on Kim's blog, representing the military charity, SOS America, I've laid them out for you right here. :) Reader questions were in the comments section and not in the main interview, so I thought I'd bring them over here to my site and let you check the questions and my answers out.

Anonymous said...

You have lived an exciting life - from Girl Scout councelor to news reporter to published author. Plus Italy! Have any of your experiences been written into your books?

Barbara

Anonymous said...

Great interview. Do you plan another book in your Shadow series?

Sally

❤Stephanie! said...

Lauren -

Loved the interview! Your books sound fascinating, and I would love to read "Chasing Shadows" as well.

Have a fantastic week!
Stephanie
thestephanieloves@gmail.com

Lauren Hope said...

Barbara -

Thanks! I like to think I've tried some new adventures ... sometimes I've made it, sometimes I've struck out, but I've always tried. :) The experiences Kim asked about have not necessarily been reflected in my books so far, but definitely people and situations have had an influence on my writing. I will admit to one or two of my unsavory or snarky characters having been molded after a combination of people I know who possess those qualities. The main characters in my third novel, Screaming to Be Solved, are Italian, so I gleaned much of my character formation of them from my time spent in Italy.
Good question! :)

Lauren Hope said...

Sally -

No plans to have any more books in the Shadow Series. I hope after reading Chasing Shadows, you’ll feel I wrapped up the lives of the characters enough to satisfy.

I do have a third suspense novel that I am excited about though called Screaming to Be Solved. Check out my website (laurenhope.net) for a little about it. It may become a series too …

Thanks for the question!

Stephanie –

Glad you liked the interview; I was so happy to do it. I hope if you are the winner of Chasing Shadows you do love it! Me, I have to read books in order, so I’d recommend Hidden Shadows first since you get to know Joseph and Heidi, (the characters in Chasing Shadows) and find out a little about their back-story. Also, the main characters in Hidden pop back up in Chasing Shadows. I’ll be having a giveaway of my own soon on my website for a free copy of Hidden Shadows. Be on the lookout!

Anonymous said...

Screaming to be Solved? Sounds intriguing.

I am curious which was more nerve-wracking - being a reporter, being an anchor, or being a writer.

Sue

Lauren Hope said...

Sue,

Being a writer is (for me) definitely more nerve-wracking! I was comfortable on-air and usually prepared, just like you would be for any job ... so I just saw myself as doing my job. Being a writer is much more personal. You open up your creative self, a very personal aspect of who you are, for criticism and critique ... and maybe - yikes! - rejection.

Good question – thanks for asking!

Have any questions you want answered about the writing process, getting published, the Shadow Series? Anything you want to know, put it in the comments section and I'll have an answer for you!

Happy Spring!

Falling In Love

2011-02-06T16:00:00.014-06:00

It's February! Time for mountains of chocolate, loads of love, Valentine's, and apparently ... snow! I don't know about you, but this has been one crazy winter where I'm at. February isn't looking like it's going to be nearly as white as January was though, and I'm a'okay with that! Although White Christmas is one of my all time favorite movies (and a must-watch every Christmas), I can't say I'm in love with snow - especially when it affects my ability to get to and from the grocery store, work, church, you know, all the essentials. Now that we live in a little country town and our house sits right on top of a hill, if my hubby doesn't salt our driveway before everything falls and freezes, we're stuck!

Other than staying warm and snow-free in your neck of the woods (unless of course, you love snow, in which case may it fall in bucketfuls for you :)) I hope you'll check out my article in this month's SMRW newsletter, Smoke Signals. The talented authors in our group are talking about How to Make Your Characters Fall in Love and I'm discussing how "You Don't Choose Love, Love Chooses You."

Here's the link. (I'm on page 10). Or, the whole newsletter is below if for some reason the links aren't working for you. You should be able to zoom in too if it's too small. (I can hover over the bottom right corner from my computer and a zoom bar pops up.)

Speaking of love, may you have your best Valentine's ever this year with the one you love! And the one you love can be anyone - your significant other, your elderly neighbor, a single mom that needs a night out. Find someone you can bring joy and love to; their Valentine's, and yours, may be the happiest and most fulfilling yet. Try it!

Until next time, lots of love from me to you readers.

Finding the Time

2011-01-24T10:26:00.003-06:00

Hello Everyone!! I hope 2011 is going fantastic for you. Me, I'm getting over a nasty case of the flu that at times I felt like I'd never be rid of! Not a great start to the new year, but I'm sloooowly, slowly getting better. Hope your health and January has been happier and healthier thus far than mine! :)

On the book front, my goal at the start of this year was Finding More Time. Time to write, time to edit, time to submit, time to really reach for the ultimate goal. (My ultimate goal is making the jump from small house, to large publishing house with a mass market book available. What's yours??)

Unless you are one of the people who happen to be able to live their dream and make money from their passion, you are in all likelihood not writing full-time. Oh, you may be writing (singing, painting, whatever your love is) full-time but you probably aren't making a full-time wage! 'Least this gal's not! So, how do you fit in writing when you actually have a full-time job where you spend 40 (or 50, or 60...) hours a week? Plus, there's cooking and cleaning, and oh goodness, what if you throw children into the mix?? Where and when can you fit in those extra minutes to start an idea, write five pages, submit to an agent?

It is hard, no doubt about it. But you can do it! I'm going to do it this year. I'm going to write a few sentences, a few pages, submit to one agent, one house, whenever I find a moment. Whenever I make a moment. It doesn't have to be a huge, over-aggressive commitment ... which I tend to do sometimes. (Am I the only one?) Just something. Doing something is always better than doing nothing. And as Nora Roberts has been re quoted many times, "You can fix anything but a blank page." I agree, Nora.

So go ahead, write! Put that idea down on paper! And once you've got something great, send it out. Don't be afraid! Fear never found it's way to a shelf at Barnes and Noble! Good luck!

I'll keep you posted on my progress and you do the same.

Winner(s)!

2010-11-23T14:44:00.003-06:00

Today is the day to announce the winner for the Free Copy of Hidden Shadows!

Many of you asked about the contest, said you wanted a copy, but you had to follow the contest rules to be entered! :) So, since two of you actually left comments on the giveaway post, I've decided to give away two copies. No random number generator to decide between the two of you - you both get a free, signed copy of Hidden Shadows shipped right to your front door!

Tami & Treasure, please email your address and if you want the book signed to someone other than you by Saturday, November 27 to authorlaurenhope [at] gmail [dot] com. I'll put your book in the mail as soon as I receive your info.

Congratulations ladies and everyone have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

FREE BOOK UP FOR GRABS!!

2010-11-13T12:00:00.006-06:00

When I was answering questions from readers over at Kim's SOS Aloha blog, I mentioned I might have a giveaway for Hidden Shadows right here on my site.

Kim is giving away a copy of Chasing Shadows in honor of my visit to her blog, and since Chasing is the second book in a series (and I'm a stickler for reading books in order!) I thought I'd give the winner of the Chasing Shadows book an opportunity to own its prequel.

Will the winner be the same lucky draw from the SOS contest, thus getting the entire Shadow Series for free?? Or will you enter and win an autographed copy of Hidden Shadows??

Leave a comment to enter for your chance to win a free (+ shipping!) autographed copy of Hidden Shadows. I'll announce a random winner a week from today. Good Luck!!!

Hodge Podge of News

2010-11-12T16:00:00.003-06:00

Hi everyone! I hope you all got the chance to check out my recent interview with Kim over at SOS Aloha. Once again, I'd like to mention how honored I am to be even a small part of this military charity (SOS America). Thanks to all the commenter's and good luck in winning the free copy of Chasing Shadows!

On to news here ... The website is still not as streamlined as I would like, but it's getting there. I hope that the changes and work that's been done on it will make it easier for you to navigate and find what you're looking for. The sidebar has links to most of the places you can purchase the Shadows Series, and it's broken down by book as well. There is also a drop down menu at the top of the page to purchase the series.

One of the newer aspects I've been working hard on is labeling my old posts in more detail, thus letting you find the variety of topics discussed here easier. I do, and have in the past, offered advice to new writers, aspiring writers, and answer(ed) questions about publishing and the whole writing/publishing process. When I first started out I had no idea where to begin, who to contact, what to do. If you're looking for those answers too, you can now easily link up to any old posts I've written about those subjects.

There is a search bar in the top right corner that you can type any subject you'd like in; that will bring up anything that's been written on the topic you're looking for.

Examples could be:

Writing

The Shadow Series

Book edits

Royalties

Sales

And the list could go on and on. Also, if you find a topic you're interested in ... say, writing, once you find one post on that, you can click the writing label (at the bottom of each post there are a number of labels applied) and that should take you to everything I've ever shared on the subject of writing.

If you try it out, let me know how it works for you!

Also, from now on, I'll be updating at least once a month; no more long droughts between posts. Since the writing world is slow moving at times (and this economy isn't helping!), frequent book news may not always be in my updates. So, I'll be writing upcoming posts about news in my world, and answer any questions you have. Leave any questions in the comments section and I'll definitely get back to you. And I know those of you looking to be published have questions! No matter where you are in the writing process - idea floating around in your head, storyboarding, actually transferring the idea to paper, or even a finished manuscript - yay! - the question still remains of what to do with your book! I hope you can find those answers here.

Eventually, I'll be adding a photo section as well with all the pictures from book signings and a few other bits of media fun I've never got around to putting on here. For now though, here we are, and I like it. :)

Check back this weekend ... The contest for a free signed copy of Hidden Shadows is up for grabs!!

SOS Aloha Guest

2010-11-07T15:46:00.005-06:00

I am honored to be the guest today on Kim's SOS Aloha blog, representing Kathryn Faulk's military charity, SOS America.

Kim asked several interesting questions and is hosting a free giveaway of Chasing Shadows. Hop on over to her blog to read the interview and for a chance to win a free book!

LINK TO FULL INTERVIEW & GIVEAWAY

There are also questions being posted in the comment section - I'll be answering those later today and any that come up in the next few days. So if you have a question for me, leave it there, or in the comments on this website and I'll reply!

I so appreciate the opportunity at SOS and thank them for the chance to participate. While you're visiting, check out the sidebar - there's a great way to reach out to our military this season with SOS's Operation Holiday Card.

Stay warm friends, and we'll chat soon.

Let Me Explain

2010-11-05T08:38:00.012-05:00

Here is an email I sent recently to all my great writer friends at SMRW*. This may explain, in brief format, why I have been so absent from posting any updates!

*(I have taken out the personal aspects and my generic inserts are in ellipses.)

"... Here's the quick recap of the last 5 months of my life.

1. {city we lived in} market is not so swell for jobs ('least not in the fields my husband and I work in).

2. I inadvertently have 3 interviews and 2 subsequent job offers from the { city approx. 200 miles away} area re: jobs I had applied for months before just because they peeked my interest.

3. I accepted one of the offers.

4. My start date was May 20th.

5. We put our house on the market in {our previous city}, and sold it in approximately 4 weeks (crazy I know!)

6. We moved to {new city}.

7. I started my new job. My husband found one too in his field.

8. We're buying {at the time of this posting have already bought} a house in the country with an acre of land and lots of trees and a split rail fence in the front - I'm thinking great writing time will be had there!

9. I'm looking to have Darby's Cave (my middle-grade novel) published.

10. Sorry it took me so long to update - we have literally been running crazy. So busy!!!"

As you can see, my life has been a bit hectic this year, especially the last few months. This is my husband and my second home, and I just don't remember moving into the first house being this much work! I guess it's because we have more stuff this time around. Isn't that the old idea? The older you get, the more stuff you acquire? Well, that must be the case because it feels like I'll never get all these boxes unpacked.

In the meantime, I am still brewing with ideas and excited about finding a home for my middle-grade novel, Darby's Cave, and my adult suspense, Screaming to Be Solved.

Also, on Sunday I'm going to be a guest on Kim's SOS Aloha blog. It's a popular site representing Kathryn Faulk's military charity, SOS America. Chasing Shadows was recently donated to this cause and Kim wanted me to answer some questions about myself for the readers. It's a great work that I'm proud to support. I'll post a link Sunday to the interview!

Thanks for stopping by and don't forget, Hidden Shadows and Chasing Shadows are still available (links to purchase them are above in the header and on the sidebar) and will make great gifts this holiday season. :)

The Movies

2010-08-19T11:25:00.023-05:00

Well, I made mention in the last post about the possibility of the Shadow Series coming to a theater near you. While it is exciting, it may not be exactly what you're thinking! Here's a note from my publisher regarding the upcoming movie RED with Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, Mary Louise Parker, and more ...

"Every once in a while something comes along that is just plain cool. This is one of those times.

... we were approached by a representative for a Hollywood movie who was in need of a "few" romance novels as set props ... for a movie called "RED". The movie stars Bruce Willis, and Mary Louise Parker as the hero and heroine of this action packed flick. Mary Louise Parker is addicted to reading romance novels especially romantic suspense (Crimson rose anyone?). Bruce is trying to "woo" her by reading what she likes to read so they can discuss the books. The movie set needed books to fill Mary Louise apartment and some to put in Bruce's apartment as well.

... Filming took place this winter in Toronto and in New Orleans. Others in the movie include Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich, Helen Mirren and Ernest Borgnine. We have no idea how many of our books actually appear on screen - if any. For all we know they may simply fill bookcases in the background - but there is a chance for some closeups... "

So there you have it - how the Shadow Series may end up in the movies. Not as cool as say, Lifetime, making tons of Nora's books into movies, but hey, it was enough excitement for this girl and interesting enough that I thought I'd post about it so you can have an eye out for the Hidden Shadows or Chasing Shadows cover.

On another note, I also have several friends who just happen to be great authors who are also published with The Wild Rose Press. See if you catch a glimpse of any of their books too! In the meantime, you can check out their work while you're anxiously waiting my next book to be released (right??) and watch the trailer for RED below.

Karen Hall - Pursuing Love; The Zebra in the Manger

Leanne Tyler - Victory's Gate

Teresa Reasor

Cool, huh? The movie releases on October 15th. Happy reading (or movie-going!) until next time.

New Look

2010-08-13T21:33:00.004-05:00

Hey Everybody!! How do you like the new look?? The site really needed a fresh new feel ... as well as new updates from me! I have plenty of those so I will be writing soon about why I've been absent and what's coming up on the book front.

Hope everyone's summer is going well and you're staying safe and cool in this crazy heat! My advice is to stay by the pool, or sit in front of the fan with a nice book - no matter the weather a good book always puts me in just the right mood.

Thanks for stopping by and please check back for updates - I promise they're a' comin'! (And they're good ... as in Hidden Shadows and Chasing Shadows might be coming to a theater near you! Yep, it's true! Now you have to stay tuned!)

Under Construction

2010-07-06T21:01:00.003-05:00

Hey all! There are some changes going on here at the website, along with some much needed upcoming updates ... so sorry if things look a little weird for a bit. I'll be be back very soon with a new look and new news.

See you soon!

Changes

2009-09-16T10:13:00.005-05:00

Hey readers!

Summer is leaving us here in east Tennessee; the bright, blue sunny skies and green trees are changing to grayer days, with rain and colored leaves dotting the skies and sky line. I love fall, so I love these changes!

I'm also changing things up here on the website. Instead of using my old, very long, sometimes hard to remember address of www.laurenhope-booknews.blogspot.com, you can now get to me easily at the new address...

www.LaurenHope.net

So much easier and simpler. At least I hope so! But don't worry, if for some reason you've memorized the old one, or given it out to friends so they can check out the Shadow Series, that address will still lead them here.

So, there's my changes; hope they make things easier for you and easier for readers to find me!

I've also been busy at booksignings, in Jackson and in Knoxville, and had a lot of great people come out in support! So thanks if you came, I appreciate it so much!

I'll post pictures and more info on the signings soon.

Until then, happy reading!!

THANK YOU!

2009-09-01T09:31:00.005-05:00

This is a big thanks from me to you if you came to the signing in Jackson last weekend ... and a LOT of you did!!! I appreciate the support so much and it was so nice to see some old, familiar faces and meet new ones too.

I hope you all love the Shadow Series, and whether you purchased Hidden Shadows, Chasing Shadows, or both, I hope you enjoy them ... and feel free to let me know what you think. Reader feedback is always productive and inspiring, whether positive or negative. I've already had one or two Jackson readers get the whole series read - in a weekend! What a compliment!

A big thanks must go out to Beth, Mary, Arlene, and Tammy, as they were all integral parts in getting me set up to sign at the library and the great press/promo that went along with it. Thanks ladies!

I really did have a wonderful turnout and appreciate each and every one of you so much. I'll be posting pictures and interviews soon from my time in Jackson. Stay tuned.

"I'm goin' down to Jackson..."

2009-08-11T08:27:00.006-05:00

After a long time of working out dates, schedules, times, and other details, I'm finally going to my hometown of Jackson, Tennessee and signing The Shadow Series!! I'm very excited about seeing people and friends I haven't been able to for years ... but most of all, I'm super happy to finally get both books to the many people who've wanted them signed. I hope you all turn out! ;)

So here's the schedule:

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2009

Jackson Madison County Library

9 - 11 a.m.: North Branch - 3189 North Highland, Units F & G Jackson, TN 38305

1 - 1:30: "Following Your Dreams" presentation to children at the Main Branch (adults are welcome too!)

1:30 - 4: Main Branch - 433 E. Lafayette St Jackson, TN 38301

I hope that many of you who've expressed interest are able to make it to at least one of the times/locations. Be checking the paper (The Jackson Sun) and watching WBBJ for more information!

At both locations Hidden Shadows and Chasing Shadows will be available for purchase and for a signing. I look so forward to seeing many of you I've known for much of my life and I always welcome new fans and readers!

See you soon!!

"Lauren Hope has done it again..."

2009-08-07T13:30:00.008-05:00

Or so says my newest reviewer, Melinda, at Night Owl Romance! In fact, she gave me a five out of five on their review scale ... allowing me to put the Night Owl Romance Reviewer Top Pick button on my website.

Here are some great things Melinda had to say about Chasing Shadows:

"Lauren Hope has done it again with this fascinating suspense story."

"These weren't your usual evil guys, which Lauren did a great job in bringing to life."

"This is definitely a book everyone should read, definitely recommended from this reviewer."

Thanks Melinda!! And thanks to all who've bought Chasing Shadows so far. Hope you're enjoying it! I'll be posting in the next few days with a book signing schedule and upcoming locations.

Below is a link to the full Night Owl Romance review.

FULL REVIEW - NOR Top Pick

CHASING SHADOWS IS HERE!!! BUY IT! :)

2009-07-24T10:45:00.005-05:00

Hi everyone!! Chasing Shadows is here TODAY, released and ready for your waiting hands and great imaginations! I hope you love it and find Joseph and Heidi's story exhilarating, interesting, and romantic. It was a tough story to write ... so let me know if it was worth it!! :)

I'm posting links where you can buy it (digital and print) today, then it'll be on the sidebar above the places you can buy Hidden Shadows.

Looking forward to hearing from my readers and your review! Enjoy and thanks for the support!!

The Wild Rose Press

Barnes and Noble (print)

Barnes and Noble (buy The Shadow Series)

Amazon

CS Trailer - Full Screen

2009-07-23T20:43:00.003-05:00

Hey all, here's Chasing Shadows trailer from YouTube. Click the button at the bottom right hand corner to make it full screen. And don't forget to have your sound up!

Chasing Shadows TRAILER!!!

2009-07-23T09:51:00.005-05:00

Check out the trailer for Chasing Shadows!!! Hope it gets you interested in the story ... since it's releasing in 1 day!!

Thanks to my father-in-law who always helps to get these videos converted so they can play on the website.

ENJOY and tell me what you think!

*I'll have it on YouTube soon and you can view it full screen then.

COUNTDOWN IS ON!!!

2009-07-22T13:33:00.009-05:00

Hey Readers,

ONLY 2 DAYS LEFT UNTIL CHASING SHADOWS DEBUTS!!!!

I'm so excited for all of you to get to read and find out Joseph and Heidi's interesting, intense story. Ben and Jenna will be making an appearance too, so if you need to go back and re-read Hidden Shadows to get ready for their return, go ahead! :)

Hope you all are looking forward to it as much as I am ...

I know Kimber An over at Enduring Romance is! Check out her recent post on how enthused she is to read Chasing Shadows!!

Kimber's Post

Thanks Kimber!!

Remember, they also had a stellar review for Hidden Shadows, so I'm looking forward to Kimber's thoughts on Chasing Shadows. I'll post a link when she gets her review up.

OK, check back in the next few days ... trailer, excerpts and all kinds of goodies coming! Hope your July weather is as fall-like where you are as it is here in the Tennessee mountains.

Special Project - Follow-Up

2009-06-23T15:37:00.004-05:00

In this post, a few weeks ago, I mentioned I had something special to announce that might surprise you. People have been asking what it is ... so, the big reveal ...

I ventured out into another realm of writing and have authored a children's book! A middle grade novel to be exact, which is a read aimed at 8 to 12 year olds. I am so, so excited about it and can't wait for the day I can share more with you about Darby's story. She's a fun, slightly awkward 4th grader whose life on her farm in Tennessee takes an adventurous turn when an old legend proves to be very real, very relevant, and right at her backdoor.

But for now, I just wanted to let the cat of the bag and reveal that I took a new route, and loved it! I'll share more later when I hopefully have some news on it (think late July). But until then, have a wonderful summer, stay cool in this heat, and of course, happy reading!!

Check back soon for the Chasing Shadows trailer!! Don't forget, it's debuting JULY 24th!!!

Announcement!

2009-05-12T11:45:00.004-05:00

Hey all!

I'm happy to announce that I have an agent!! Jeanie Pantelakis of the Sullivan Maxx Literary Agency is now representing me and my newest novel, Screaming to Be Solved.

Jeanie is a great, enthusiatic agent who is on board with my career goals and my vision for Screaming to Be Solved; I'm very excited about what our future holds as a team.

More details to come!

Thanks for your support and for checking in. It's not too long before Chasing Shadows is available!! Get your copy starting July 24, 2009!

March

2009-03-06T10:02:00.005-06:00

Hey everyone! I can't believe it's already March! Thankfully, here, spring is finally showing itself ... which I love. Winter has its pleasent qualities--snuggling by a warm fire, staying in with a good movie, cuddling up with an interesting book--but for the most part, I usher the season out with gladness. Fresh flowers, crisp air, and budding trees, here we come!

On the book front, things are moving like much in the publishing world does ... slowly. Chasing Shadows will release on July 24th - Yay! - and I'll get be getting a quarterly report for Hidden Shadows print sales this month. I'm looking forward to that (and hoping my anticipation proves worthy). Well, like I've said before, for those of you who've come to me or written and said you thoroughly enjoyed the story, that's what matters most!

Book 3 is finished and is being shopped around to various agents. Hopefully soon I'll be posting some fabulous news associated with that ...

Book 4 is also well on its way to completion. And both books are mystery's that I think you'll love.

Also, I'm working on a new project that might be a surprise to you! I'll reveal soon when I have more details. But it's very different and I'm very excited about the possibilities.

Well, I'm headed to a writers retreat today with all my talented writer friends from SMRW. It should be a good time with much great info. Hope you all have a wonderful (spring-like!) weekend!

Can You Beat This?!

2009-01-08T09:47:00.004-06:00

Hey readers! Hope your holiday's were merry and bright, and 2009 rang in with cheer for you and yours.

Me, I have great news that we'll see if you can top! I believe I have found my oldest fan ... a 92 year old woman has read Hidden Shadows and professed her love for it and her earnest desire for the sequel! Isn't that wonderful? She has no TV and is an avid reader, was given the book as a Christmas present and finished it in a few days. She says July is too long to wait for Chasing Shadows. Well, I agree! :) But I'm just so happy my eldest fan thus far enjoyed the ride of Jenna and her adventures.

So, here's where you come in. Are you a fan of Hidden Shadows and older than 92? Or know someone who's read the book and can top my oldest reader?? If you answered yes, write me at my email, authorlaurenhope@gmail.com or leave a comment on the website and you'll be a winner!!! Of what you might ask? Well, a book of course!

Send me my "new" oldest reader and I'll send you a FREE copy of Hidden Shadows, right to your doorstep!

Happy hunting and I'm looking forward to the results!!

Chasing Shadows - RELEASE DATE!

2008-12-18T12:20:00.011-06:00

Hey all, I haven't posted in a month - whoops! Or more like whew. The holidays are always such a busy time. Enjoyable, but man, it can wear a gal out ... or get her a month behind on her posts!

Well, here it is - the release date for the Second book in the Shadow Series ...

Chasing Shadows will be available for your waiting hands (and I know some of you are waiting anxiously, you've told me!) :) on ....... JULY 24, 2009!!!

Whoo, hooo! So excited about this book and the follow-up to Jenna and Ben's life and the start, or rather, continuation of Heidi and Joseph's journey.

I'll write more later, including news about a third book (yep! number three is done and really interesting and fun) ... but until then, Merry Christmas friends and readers, and Happy, Happy Holidays!

My First Book Club

2008-11-22T13:43:00.004-06:00

This is an update and follow-up on my post about my upcoming visit to Club LeConte. Though it was on Tuesday of this week, I'm just now updating - Christmas decorating has kept me busy! (Yes, I'm decorating before Thanksgiving ... we'll be traveling over the holidays and I want it done when we come home. Plus, I love it!)

My first experience with a book club, being on the other end as the guest instead of the reader I might add, was wonderful!! Of course, I was a bit nervous going in -- How would they like the book? What would the comments be? How will I act/react around these people and this place I've never been to? -- Well, I needn't have worried one bit; the member's of Club LeConte's book club were a delight to meet and speak with.

We started with an informal book signing as guests arrived, then went on to lunch. To be sure nerves didn't get the better of me and my stomach, I opted for a light lunch, but it was good nonetheless. :) Around 12:00 I got up and spoke about my background and how I got started writing (thanks Mom for making me a book lover!) and my journey to being published. Next, all the members were able to ask questions about Hidden Shadows. I got some, of course, about what inspired me to write, were the characters molded after anyone, and a couple of thoughts and comments about e-books versus print. Some even bought copies for friends as Christmas presents (good idea by the way if you're needing gifts). ;) Overall, it was very interesting and very enlightening for me to go into a room full of readers that I don't know and field their questions and hear their opinions on Hidden Shadows.

I was absolutely thrilled that all the readers were engaged by the story and Ben and Jenna (even Jenna's children!). Many were thrown for a loop with the ending and the revealing of Jenna's nemesis. That, my friends, is the best compliment for an author when a reader says, "I had no idea!", or "I couldn't put it down!" I got a few of those comments at Club LeConte, and boy does that make all the work worth it!

So ladies (and the gentleman that was there) :) thank you, thank you for hosting me and honoring me as your guest. It was a truly enjoyable experience for me and I would love to come back anytime!

*Special thanks to Debbie, the coordinator of the club who invited me to participate and lent a helping hand in everything from directions to introductions and coordination of the whole day. Thanks for making me feel right at home.

p.s. I have the release date for Chasing Shadows ... stay tuned ... I'll be posting soon!!!

Some Things I Have Learned So Far

2008-11-15T20:44:00.005-06:00

No pictures this post, or new news, just things I have learned so far in my time as a published author. Thought you aspiring writers out there, or those who just want to know what I'm thinking :) might be interested. Here goes:

1.) Writing is hard work. No bones about it. It is work, plain and simple. If you want to write, fine, get in your happy place and write your heart out. If you want to be published and want people to read your writing, you have to work. (As if writing wasn't work enough.) There are no excuses, no short cuts, no easy ways to break into the publishing world. You just have to do it. You sit down, write the best material you can, compile a list of who you want to critique and buy this work (editors, agents, a publishing house, etc. - which is a ton of time and work in and of itself!), and if you've written a compelling, inventive, sellable manuscript, you have a chance at selling it. If you're lucky, ta-da, your countless hours of hard work are viewable to the masses ... including family and friends. Which brings me to my next lesson.

2.) I would one million times rather a complete and total stranger pick up anything I've written and read and critique it rather than someone I know. Why you ask? Simple. Those people don't know me, therefore they are taking the story at face value, not judging every page, whispering about every thing they believe is a mistake, they are reading the book for what it is - entertainment (which is what my books are - commercial fiction, mystery and suspense, for entertainment). Many agents and editors suggest finding a stranger, or at least an objective person, to critique your work before sending it anywhere, as mothers, brothers, and best friends tend to be overly complimentary and are of course, raving about how wonderful your book is. For me, I would gladly take the stranger's advice over an acquaintance. Just my experience thus far ... If you're a fellow writer who is reading this and nodding your head in agreement, I'd love to hear from you. What is your experience? Are people you know overly enthusiastic, or do they pick apart every little word and theme and moral aspect? I'd be interested to hear.

3.) I am proud of my work. I am extremely thankful and purely joyous over my journey as an author. It moved much faster for me than many writers, and I know I'm blessed because of it. Therefore, I take great pleasure in each and every positive review from those strangers out there and plow ahead with vigor and a renewed spirit when I sign a contract for my latest work. I love writing. Since I first began to write Hidden Shadows, something in me opened up, a creative, interesting, demanding, colorful, intense, comforting place in my heart that I didn't know existed. Creating stories for me is creating life, a world where a reader can go and forget whatever they are facing - something as simple as a pile of dirty dishes, or as hard as a failing relationship or marriage - and just be somewhere else, experiencing someone else's hopes and dreams and hardships and triumphs. That's what I feel when I read a good book. And if you feel it too, especially when you read Hidden Shadows, or Chasing Shadows in a few months, I'm proud. I'm happy I'm able to give that to you, or anyone. It is true that writing is a very subjective medium, and as much as I would like to please and be perfect in every single reader's eyes, for now, I'm just happy in my own eyes. I'm proud that I sat down and did the hard work.

Whelp, there ya have it - my beginner's advice in the world of publishing. It is hard, but boy is it fun. And at the end of the day, if you can say you're proud of yourself and your work, and you know you put every bit of your best into it, I'd say you're on the right track.

Thanks to all who've supported Hidden Shadows, especially all you great reviewers (and strangers!) :) who've given me and Ben and Jenna's tale a big thumbs up! Much appreciated!

Another Sell-Out!

2008-11-05T10:02:00.010-06:00

News and updates from this past weekend ... which was another sell out!!!

Saturday was a wonderful, exhausting day, full of great information and writing discussions and meeting new authors. I have to give a huge thanks to all my friends at SMRW - a great group of women as well as some really wonderful writers. The workshop conducted at Pellissippi college that I was a part of was wonderful, primarily due to all the ways each of the ladies from this group pitched in. Thanks, ladies, for making it a memorable day for me and many others!

O.K., the book signing. Yes, I had another sell out!! Although Borders did not order as many books as I had anticipated (making the sell out not as difficult as it might have been otherwise) ;), it was still an exciting experience to sell out for the second time. In fact, by the time I got to the table at 7:40, Hidden Shadows was gone! People had already bought it and were standing in line waiting for me to sign. So, I sold all the copies and took several orders as well.

It was so much fun and a fabulous night to remember. As always, I truly appreciate all the support of those who came out - Turkey Creek is a long trek for many, depending on which part of Knoxville you live in. So I give my gratitude to those of you who came and sat with me, drank coffee, and most of all, purchased Hidden Shadows.

The night went so well in fact, Borders has invited me, and some other local authors to come back in December and sign books for the holidays. So if you didn't make it out this time for one reason or another, December is available. I'll be posting more details as they come.

I'll leave you with some photos from the evening. They are not as good as my previous ones since my "assistant" (that would be my very attentive, helpful husband!) :) only had a cell phone available to snap these photos. Well, enjoy anyway - I did!

*I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge that today is a historical day in America. No matter your party affiliations and beliefs, I pray God blesses our great country and that you join me in my effort. God Bless America!

Weekend Signing

2008-10-28T09:42:00.009-05:00

Hey Everyone!

Don't forget I'll be signing books this weekend in Knoxville as a part of Super Saturday. It'll be a great day full of workshops with lots of information for a writer or interested writer of any genre ... Come join the fun and education and sign up at the link above.

After speaking on Beginner's Basic for Writing Fiction, and giving tips to those working hard in NaNo (National Novel Writing Month), I'll be heading over to Turkey Creek to sign Hidden Shadows!

The signing will be at Borders on 11235 Parkside Dr. in Knoxville on Saturday, November 1st. I'll be at the store from 7 to 9 p.m. but will actually be at the signing table from 7:40 - 8:20. (It's a weird time, I know, but there are other authors from the workshop signing and we'll be going in shifts ... that is my allotted time.) Of course if you come before or after, I'll be available to mingle and will be glad to sign a copy for you - the table doesn't make it any more official! :)

I'm hoping for a big crowd since Knoxville has become my home away from home - Come out and show me some love! :) Not to mention picking up a great fall read. Jenna and Ben have a story to tell ...

As always, thanks for your interest and support; see you this weekend!

Reporting Back

2008-10-22T10:07:00.012-05:00

Hello Friends and Fellow Readers,

I'm bringing a report to all of you who wanted to be at the signing this past weekend, but couldn't make it for one reason or another (best friend in Texas, are you sure you couldn't have come up??) :) or for those of you just dying to know how it went!, here are some photos and news:

#1) I sold out of all my books at the Westhaven signing!!! WHOO HOO! A big, big THANK YOU to all that came out in support and for those that purchased a copy. I really hope you enjoy it and get to snuggle up with a good spooky read as the weather turns colder!

#2) I even took some orders since all my copies sold! I'll be placing an order soon, so if you'd like a signed copy and won't be able to make it to any of the Tennessee locations I'm signing at, let me know and I'll send you one of my copies signed (tax free I might add!). If you'll leave a comment with your name and a way to contact you, we'll get together and I'll be glad to send you an autographed copy.

New News:

#3) I have confirmed that I will be signing at Books A Million in Jackson, TN. We are working on securing a date (sometime in November I believe). So Jackson residents interested in a copy, wait for the signing so we can have a big turn out ... or bring your copy in while I'm there! Don't forget to pass the word around too.

#4) Enjoy the pics from my very first book signing which, for me, was great fun and a great success!

(There are photos with actual people in them! ;) But I haven't received those yet. When I do, I'll post them.)

Truly, thank you, thank you to all who came in support last Saturday. It means so much. And remember, if you love the book, the best thing you can do for the author is recommend it to others! ;) Looking forward to seeing you on the road or in a store soon!

Come On Down!

2008-10-16T13:29:00.004-05:00

Get your signed copy of Hidden Shadows this weekend, Saturday, Oct. 18th from 2 - 4 p.m. If you're in or around the Franklin/Nashville area, stop by the Westhaven Residents' Club off Hwy 96. and see me and Hidden Shadows. If you need directions or a map, go here. There's also a phone number on the link if you get lost or need clearer directions.

I'd love your support and help in selling out all my copies!!! :)

Coming To A Bookstore Near You

2008-10-09T10:41:00.007-05:00

Below is my current schedule for appearances signing Hidden Shadows.

Please join me! If you have any questions, feel free to comment and I'll get back with you.

HIDDEN SHADOWS DEBUT!!!!

2008-10-03T13:08:00.006-05:00

YEP, today is the day!! The big release of Hidden Shadows!! It's been a long time coming, but I'm so excited that so many of you who've been waiting for the print edition can now have it!

Pick up a copy at Barnes and Noble or Amazon! As of now, it's not up at Borders yet, but be checking back.

Don't forget the upcoming book signing in Franklin, TN on October 18th and the Knoxville signing November 1st at Borders Turkey Creek.

Thanks for the support!

In the News!

2008-10-02T14:48:00.008-05:00

The big Super Saturday event hosted by the writing club I'm a member of is getting some news coverage!!

Check it out:

Seymour Herald

If you're a writer or aspiring writer that lives near the Knoxville area, we'd love to have you. Check out the link to find out more info ... you can have all your writing/publishing questions answered in one day!

Ahhh ... My heart is happy

2008-09-30T13:23:00.006-05:00

For TWO grand reasons:

#1) Hidden Shadows--the actual physical book with pages and a cover and all--was delivered to my doorstep this weekend!! YAAAAY! What a feeling to hold all that hard work, all that joy in your hands. Amazing. Such gratification and well worth all the work I put into it just to see the stacks sitting on the counter. How fabulous! (I'll be using these copies at book signings that aren't at book stores, and for any occasion when someone might happen to want a great read and just can't make it to the store. :)) And of course, I hope you all enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. And speaking of people loving the read ... on to my second reason for a happy heart.

#2) Another review has come in for Hidden Shadows, and it too is wonderful!! Allll right! I'm on a roll with reviewers and I couldn't be more pleased. The Long and Short of It has given Hidden Shadows 4 books!! (Definition: A "Very Good" read.)

Camellia was the reviewer and here are some things she had to say:

"Hidden Shadows entices the reader to settle in for a time of discovery."

"Lauren Hope keeps the reader waiting at times as she shifts the story’s point of view ....as three parts come together to make a smooth read."

"As Hidden Shadows unfolds, the reader finds clues to the mystery and has a front row seat to the harassing incidents that endanger the lives of Jenna and her children."

"...Lauren Hope skillfully creates a beautiful romance and a touching love story."

As always, I appreciate the good words, and except for a minor mistake throughout the review (Dawson is called Darrow by the reviewer-whoops!) I am thrilled with The Long and Short of It's opinion of Hidden Shadows. I hope you think the same!!

A link to the full review is below.

FULL REVIEW - The Long and Short of It

Hidden Shadows opens in the fall, when the leaves are turning their beautiful shades of red and gold, and the air is crisp and clean. Jenna loves this time of year - Hope you're breathing in the changing season too!

See you soon at a book signing!

Numbers, Numbers

2008-09-12T11:21:00.005-05:00

Hey all!

Hope everyone is staying safe in the midst of all these crazy hurricanes. I have a best friend in Texas, so keep her and her family in your thoughts and prayers, please.

On to book news ...

My first sales report has come in for Hidden Shadows e-book. When I first glanced at it, I was a bit surprised, hoping I had sold more than what the report was saying ... but I brightened considerably when I saw the info was only for 30 days worth of sales!! :) (I was expecting to see everything that had been sold thus far.) The second quarter included April thru June ... and Hidden Shadows didn't make its debut until May 30th, so the report only included those three or four weeks it was out. I will be getting another report for the third quarter, which should reflect sales more accurately since the book will have been available for purchase the entire quarter.

Nonetheless, it's doing well! As of today, Hidden Shadows is #237 on a list of 641 items for the Wild Rose Press Store!! This does not take into account if the book has been sold anywhere else (Amazon Kindle store, LuLu, or any other e-book store) so the numbers may be slightly skewed. The bestseller list for Wild Rose is just that, only WRP numbers. At any rate, I don't feel too shabby about my position! Out of those 641 items, some are short stories, which have sold for much cheaper than my full length novel, and they've been out for several months, all the way to years! So I am very happy to see it has climbed the charts quickly.

Can't wait to see all of you out at the book signings. We have confirmed the Borders at Turkey Creek for our November 1st Super Saturday. I'll post with a time and a full list of dates and locations when they are all confirmed.

As always, thanks for your support ... and don't' forget to share Hidden Shadows with everyone you know who wants a good read - lets shoot for making it Number One at the Wild Rose Store!!

New Look and a COVER!!

2008-08-28T12:37:00.007-05:00

Hey all, how do you like the new look of the blog?? There's been a lot of time and work put into it, so I hope it catches your eye. There is still some work to do, things will be added, etc. but I love it! Let me know what you think.

Also, I was planning to wait until Hidden Shadows made its print debut, but since it is now up in the header for the web site, I'll give you an up close look at the cover for Chasing Shadows!!!

Ta-da!

Again, Kim Mendoza, was my cover artist, and I think she did a fabulous job. Thanks, again, Kim! Together, they make a great set, right? :)

Hope your summer is slowly turning into fall, as ours is here in the mountains. Thank you, God, for the rain--we needed it here!--but hope everyone is safe as well.

More news to come on book signings!

Changes!

2008-08-25T22:05:00.002-05:00

If you're visiting in the next few days, there are lots of changes going on here at the site. Sorry if it looks funny, but the finished product should be great!
Stay tuned.

Club LeConte

2008-08-20T09:55:00.005-05:00

I am honored to announce that I will be the guest speaker for the month of November at Club LeConte's book club!!

Club LeConte (pronounced like the mountain), is a members only club that, to me, is like a country club without the golf course! :) They meet in the top floors of a high rise bank building in downtown Knoxville and their website describes them as follows: "The club provides its Membership with a distinguished setting conducive to business and social entertaining."

The social entertainment for November, includes me! Each month, on the 3rd Tuesday, an author comes and speaks to the book club that meets at Club LeConte. From 11:30 to 12:00, I'll be signing books for all the great members who've been busy reading that month. Around 12:00 to 12:15, I'll get a lunch to fill me up for the speech I'll have coming up. After lunch, I get to speak to the club about writing, my background, how I got published, whatever I want to share, really. Also, book club members are able to ask questions on anything about the book - how I got the idea, inspirations, characters, etc. It'll be just like what you see on Oprah where the guest author sits down and gets to expound upon his or her work. :)

Needless to say, I'm thrilled to be the speaker for November 18th. Thank you, Debbie, for this opportunity.

Not being from around the Knoxville area, I was not completely familiar with Club LeConte ... But the more I talk with people, the more apparent it is that this is a well-known place ... And the more nervous I get about being there! :) Really though, nerves and all, I'm just completely excited to be going.

If you'd like to learn more about Club LeConte, you can visit their website.

Coming Up!

2008-08-11T16:12:00.009-05:00

Lots of exciting events are coming up in the next few months!! I wanted to give all of you a head's up on places and especially book signings going on so you can be sure to attend! :)

As I said on this post, Hidden Shadows will be released on October 3rd, 2008! That will push up many of the signings I had planned. Tentative locations for signings are: Knoxville, TN; Nashville, TN; Murfreesboro, TN; and Jackson, TN.

I already have a scheduled event on November 1st, 2o08 (a Saturday) for a book signing in Knoxville, so hopefully I'll be making it to other parts of the state before then.

The event in Knoxville is very exciting!! I'm participating in what's called "Super Saturday." From around 8 that morning to late that afternoon, workshops will be going on at Pellissippi State Community College. I'll be a speaker in the workshop for Beginners Basics where two or three other authors and myself will have a designated topic to share with those interested in writing or the publishing process. I'll be speaking on "the two biggies" - Query Letters and Synopsis. (If you're interested in attending the workshop, you can get more details and register here! ) After the workshop, Borders will be hosting a book signing for all the authors involved. Plans are not completely secured as of yet as to which Borders the signing will be at, but for now, we are fairly certain it will be the Borders in Turkey Creek. Check back for confirmation on this before actually going though! I'll be sure to post when I find out.

Again, thanks to all who've supported Hidden Shadows. Can't wait to see you at the signings. Soon, I'll have a full schedule and dates posted.

I'll be posting in the next few days too about another great speaking engagement I've got lined up - stay tuned!

One last thing. I liked this comic I found ... enjoy! :)

Third Times A Charm

2008-07-21T14:17:00.013-05:00

Well, another review is in, the third ... and it apparently lives up to the third time being a charm, because Enduring Romance's review of Hidden Shadows is absolutely charming!

Things Robyn had to say:

"Lauren Hope is a deft hand with a mystery."

"...She throws several good curveballs..."

"Thank God Almighty, finally. Finally. A heroine is faced with danger and does the smart thing."

Thank you, Robyn, for an insightful, interesting review! Below is the full review if you'd like to read it.

FULL REVIEW - Enduring Romance

I can't begin to describe, a.) the blessings I feel right now, and b.) how great it is as an author for a reader to enjoy your work! I love when someone gets into the story as Robyn did. I am more than happy to discuss Hidden Shadows with you or answer any questions you may have about it. Leave me a comment and I'll be sure to get back to you.

Have a great summer and stay cool! And as a writing friend of mine suggested, I'll stay up on this cloud I've been walking on and enjoy it as long as I can! :) I'm in the middle of edits right now (which is always daunting), so any praise for Hidden Shadows is a boost to keep slugging through the hard parts of writing.

Pinch Me??

2008-07-16T13:20:00.011-05:00

Because great news just keeps filtering in!!

1. MY RELEASE DATE FOR HIDDEN SHADOWS IN PRINT HAS BEEN MOVED UP!!! Instead of November, its original release, it will now be available for purchase OCTOBER 3rd, 2008!! I am so excited and grateful to Wild Rose for bumping that up. Just a month and half can cause so much excitement. :) I'll explain later some of their reasons for doing this ... which are also pretty fun!

2. I received another review, and it too was really good!! This is beyond wonderful for me ... two in a row with great marks. I couldn't be more appreciative to those who've said gracious words about me as an author and Hidden Shadows. Thank you, Tonie, from Simply Romance Reviews, for the fantastic words!! I am truly grateful!

Some things Tonie had to say about Hidden Shadows:

"Ms. Hope does a wonderful job of putting us into Jenna's and Ben's heads as she weaves their romance."

"Their romance is true to life, a roller coaster of emotions..."

"I am very much looking forward to Ms. Hope's next book and will definitely be reading it."

The link below will take you to the full review.

FULL REVIEW - Simply Romance Reviews

As always, thanks for checking in, and all you readers out there, I hope you're enjoying Hidden Shadows too. Let me know what you think by leaving a comment!

Reviews are IN!

2008-07-07T16:56:00.013-05:00

Well, one at least ... and right now, that's exciting enough for me! :) My first review for Hidden Shadows has come in ...... and the official word is .... SUCCESS!! Yes, that's right, I am so thrilled to report that my first critique has come back very positive.

Romance Reader at Heart, who has many reviewers, and critiques well-known and wonderful novels has recommended Hidden Shadows with "four roses."

Whooo hooo! :) Thank you so much, Susan, for a well written, well thought out review! I appreciate your time and comments so much.

Here are some of Susan's (the reviewers) comments:

"Hope draws wonderful characters that are three dimensional and very genuine."

"...Hope keeps her cool, not revealing the stalker's identity to the end."

"I recommend HIDDEN SHADOWS to any reader who likes a good suspenseful story with well-rounded characters."

To see the full review on RRaH's website, here's the link:

FULL REVIEW - Romance Reader at Heart

Let me know what you think!

HAPPY 4TH! ... Plus News

2008-07-04T14:59:00.005-05:00

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!! I hope you and your family are having a relaxing day off and long weekend to celebrate all the wonderful opportunities this country we live in brings us. I couldn't be more thankful to live in America - so happy birthday to the land I love!

On the book front, things are continually busy. On June 30th I received my edits for Chasing Shadows. This is a daunting day in any author's life ... seeing your hard work marked up, cut up and finely critiqued by those wonderful people known as editors brings a heavy sigh to the heart. But, it must be done and makes the finished product that much better. So, tedious and trying work awaits me. BUT it's all worth it in the end ... when the book is ready for reading!

Also, I'm delving through (rather quickly to my excitement!) my third novel, Screaming to Be Solved. It's an interesting tale of mystery, suspense and dark secrets. I hope you'll love it!

Before I leave you, I'd like to send a huge THANKS to any and all of you who've purchased Hidden Shadows. Your support and enthusiasm is so uplifting and much appreciated. And if you've written or commented about your love of the book - thank you even more! I am so happy many of you are enjoying it. I hope you're just as interested to find out Heidi and Joseph's story in Chasing Shadows.

May you all have a blessed holiday!

Sales

2008-06-11T10:26:00.008-05:00

Everyone is asking about it.

How many have you sold? Do you know how well your book is doing? How much have you made?

The answer: I don't know. And won't until the current quarter at my publisher is complete. Publishers (mine at least) won't send me any info until that time. When this quarter is complete (which I believe is sometime near the end of June), I'll receive a report with sales, figures, numbers, all that good stuff, plus my royalties. So there's your answer ... and my answer is, no matter how well its done, I feel successful!! :) As I've said before, if one person truly enjoys the read, finds some pleasure in life because of it, changes their attitude to a certain situation, loves their partner a little more, escapes to a new world for just a little while; I'll be happy.

Thanks to all who've purchased Hidden Shadows so far! Your support means everything.

TODAY IS THE DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-30T09:55:00.016-05:00

THE COUNTDOWN IS OVER ... the day has finally come when you can purchase Hidden Shadows!! I am so, so excited (as I'm sure that goes without saying!) :).

I hope that you enjoy what I've come to call (when people ask what I write): "suspense with a splash of romance." Let me know what you think, or you're welcome to write a review after you read it ... click on the tab that says 'Write a Review' if you buy it at Wild Rose.

Below are links where you can order Hidden Shadows! Or if you have a favorite e-book store, it'll be available there too. I know it is only $6.00 at the Wild Rose Store, so go ahead and purchase a copy!!

I'll be writing later in the week about sales and e-books and more, so keep checking back.

WILD ROSE PRESS STORE - to purchase Hidden Shadows

Wild Rose Home (In case you want to see the book on the front page!) ;)

*Also, I'm adding this link ... How to Buy Ebooks ... I've put it on here before; it's about e-books and how to purchase and download them. This will take you directly to a page at The Wild Rose Press that describes it all in detail for you.

REVIEW'S Are Coming!

2008-05-27T18:17:00.006-05:00

I've got several reviewers reading right now ... and one post date set - July 20th! Enduring Romance will have a review of Hidden Shadows posted that day, so be checking for it, and of course, I'll post it.

Don't forget the BIG news ... the countdown is almost complete!!

2 DAYS

How It All Began: Part 2

2008-05-21T10:13:00.009-05:00

The days are edging closer and my nerves and excitement are mounting!! I've had lots of good feedback from the extended excerpt posted, so that is good and hopeful news. Also, I've got several reviews lined up which I'll tell about in another post. This one is to continue the story...

So I got the contract, but HOW?? That's what it seems everyone wants to know - "How did you get published?"; "What did you do?"; "How did you know which publishers to contact?"... and the list goes on.

The short answer - research!! Lots of time, effort, and research.

The long answer goes something like this ...

FIRST, you have to write. As Nora Roberts is quoted, "I can fix a bad page, but I can't fix a blank one." So true! If you are truly interested in getting published, first, you have to have the material. You have to sit your booty down and write.

SECOND, the Internet, books, and any informational material you can get your hands on becomes your best friend. You have to search and decide first if you want an agent or if you'd like to just put yourself out there and try on your own - I decided the latter. (At the time, I wanted to see what results would be like without an agent). Be aware though, if you choose to forgo an agent, many publishing companies (especially the larger ones) won't accept your manuscript ... But, some will, so it is your own choice. Most important, whatever you decide, you must find a reputable publisher or agent. Find out what vanity publishers are (people that take your money to read your manuscript), what agents are recognized in literary books and markets, and so on. There are lots of ways to protect yourself and your rights as an author along with your idea ... in the beginning it is your job to safeguard that. I will say this since a few people asked me how much I had to pay my publisher - the answer is NOTHING!! Not a penny, dime, nickel - nothing! If a publisher is "real" it will never cost you anything to do business with them. They will sell your product then give you money and you'll receive your part, and they theirs.

THIRD, you must write a fabulous and catchy query letter. A query letter is like a resume - you put your best foot forward and show enthusiasm for "the job." The query tells the agent or publisher what your book is about first and foremost, then tells a little about yourself. A good query letter should be well written enough to serve as the back cover blurb (what you read when you pick up a book and find out if it's interesting to you). Publishers do the same. If it seems interesting enough they will ask for a synopsis - a succinct, usually 4 to 5 page outline of the story - or the entire manuscript. After they receive the novel and read it, they'll contact you with a request to sign with them and send a contract your way.

Armed with my three steps, I began my journey. I had the idea, and the book, ready. I researched and searched and researched some more. The Wild Rose Press and one other company contacted me requesting the book - success!!! But you can't jump the gun too quickly ... they may not like the finished product. I was hoping Wild Rose would come through with an offer because I liked them quite a bit better than the other company.......

One sunny afternoon in June of 2007, my husband made a short trip down the road to buy something from the store. When he came home and opened the door, there I stood, crying like a baby. Apparently, I was rubbing my arms in an awkward way, so much so that he thought I had hurt myself!! "NO," I cried, "They've taken the book!! We DID IT!!!" After hugs, kisses, and lots more excited shouting, I stopped the breakdown :) and then concentrated on getting my heart back to a normal rate.

Wild Rose sent the contract and I signed it with much joy! Though I did have rejections, most authors experience much more and sometimes many years of it ... I feel ridiculously blessed to have gotten on board so quick and I hope my work is seen worthy! That's where the nerves come in!!! It will be extremely nerve-wracking to see what a reviewer thinks, and more what a reader thinks ... but being in the news for some years has braced me (I hope!) for criticism. I am sure not everyone will love my work (my mom isn't a huge fan of Nora - can you believe it?!?!) but even if a few find an interesting adventure in the pages of Hidden Shadows, if a few gain a new perspective of love or turn and kiss their significant other due to a spark of romance, if someone shivers in their bed or turns the page excitedly dying to know what happens next, I'll be a happy happy author.

And that's it. That's the journey that brought me here - 8 days away from a release of my work! It's a blessing and a wonderful experience that I hope to build on and continue ... with your help - so buy the e-book!! :) And if you want to wait, buy the print in November ... or if you really love it, buy the e-book then the print!!!

If you're a budding artist, take heart and keep trucking - you'll get there! When you do, it's worth the effort.

How It All Began: Part 1

2008-05-15T12:47:00.005-05:00

So after an interesting and amusing post from my friend, The Click Chick, about selling her first photographs and "work," I thought it might be just as interesting and amusing if I shared my story ... Here goes:

I have always, always loved reading, and loved writing just as much, if not more. While other kids groaned and secretly cursed their English teachers (no matter how great the teacher), I happily wrote any and all projects involving creativity, stories, analysis of a work -- anything that let me write. I often remember taking a flashlight after my mother turned the big lights out and hunkering under my covers to explore whatever story I was currently engaged in.

Yes, I was your typical reading nerd ... and I have your typical writer's story of loving books and reading under the covers. What I didn't have though was the typical opportunities or the typical husband. Both have been wonderful and presented me with this astonishing and exciting twist to my life.

After a truly unfortunate working experience (you know, that movie - office environment where the boss is absolutely crazy and working for them drives every employee insane or to tears or to unmanageable stress?? - yeah, that's the boss I had) my wonderful husband who is the complete counterpart of that crazy boss suggested that I just take some time of my own -- I deserved it after all for putting up with the arrogant, silly politician man (that's the boss in case I didn't mention I was in the political world). I took my guys advice and for two months I took time ... I washed and cooked and cleaned and did all the things a stay at home mom does, without the kids :) But mostly, I wrote.

And in a little more than two months, I had my first book - Hidden Shadows. I had begun the story while still working, but when given the opportunity, I went full speed ahead and put in several hours a day just writing. After the book was finished, I began looking for publishers and another job. Both came quicker than expected. Currently, I'm working part time at a Public Relations firm and have recently finished book #2, Chasing Shadows. It too is under contract with The Wild Rose Press and will follow some months after Hidden Shadows as it is the second in what is being called "The Shadows Series." What a year, huh??!! I think so!

I just celebrated my 24th birthday and feel accomplished that I got two books done before the big day came. Also, and whew is this a lot to take in while I'm trying to get you all into my first book, I've begun book three, which I am thoroughly thrilled about. I can't wait to see what the future holds and am anxiously awaiting 14 days from now when Hidden Shadows is available for purchase -- whoo hooo!! Can't believe we've made it from my hubby's suggestion to "take some time" to a real book. An exciting story full of love and romance, fear and suspense.

Okay, Part 1 of How It All Began is complete for today... Stay tuned for Part 2 where I'll explain how I got published (which many people ask about and seem very interested in) and what my reaction was -- it's a doozy of a story!

And most important -- don't forget our countdown!!!

14 DAYS

What Time Is It??

2008-05-08T12:44:00.007-05:00

21 days,
6 hours,
15 minutes
and 4 seconds
UNTIL Friday, May 30, 2008

Who's excited?? Not me!! ;)

23!!

2008-05-06T10:21:00.008-05:00

...DAYS that is, until the big release!!

Today's special post is an extended excerpt of Hidden Shadows ... it's the prologue actually. I hope you enjoy it and it gears you up for the story! Let me know what you think!

Hidden Shadows Extended Excerpt

the COUNTDOWN is...ON!!!

2008-05-03T15:05:00.006-05:00

Yes that's right ladies and gents - the official countdown for Hidden Shadows release is HERE!!! Can you believe it?! In some ways, it has felt like forever, in others, only that this whole journey began yesterday. But isn't that how much of our favorite moments in life are? ... Oh, I digress ...

In honor of the upcoming release, these next few days will be spent in fun, informative posts ... celebrating, what else?? The countdown!! Stay tuned for the story of exactly when I found out I was going to be published, how I reacted, info on how to purchase Hidden Shadows as an e-book and lots of other fun stuff!

As I sit, enjoying the sunny beaches of Florida (although today it's raining!) with my wonderful husband, I am so thrilled to give this official word:

27 DAYS...

or 648 hours...

or 38,880 minutes...

or 2,332,800 seconds from now, Hidden Shadows can be in your hands!!!

I'm YOUTUBEable!

2008-04-23T19:47:00.007-05:00

Well, it's official, I am now on YouTube! Which as we all know, means I'm famous! (hahaha) The trailer for Hidden Shadows is now available for viewing on the crazy popular YouTube. Hopefully, this will expose more people to the book and it's upcoming release. We're about to start the countdown people - the 30 day mark is almost here!!

Take a look at YouTube and see if you can find the trailer. If you do, leave a comment and let me know what key words led you to the video.

Also, a big thanks to my smart and wonderful husband and father-in-law for being a big part in the YouTube posting.

An extended excerpt will be posted soon ... plus, the countdown begins!!

SO, Where Do We Stand??

2008-04-09T16:59:00.005-05:00

Many people want to know, "What is going on right now??" Well, the short answer is, I'm working and waiting.

Working - on finishing the Shadows Series with the second and final book, Chasing Shadows. It is near completion and the cover is being designed as we speak (or as you read if we're being technical :) ). I am excited about the finished product of both projects.

Waiting - on May 30th to get here!!!!! I know many of you, my family included - who've yet to read Hidden Shadows - are ready for its debut. But I can bet that I am much more ready than all of you combined! I am anxious for the day to be here and encourage everyone to consider buying Hidden Shadows in e-book form.

I'll write more later on e-book sales and 'encourage' more too. :)

Till then, check back ... I'll be posting a longer excerpt from Hidden Shadows since the release is so near!

Hope spring is blossoming in your part of the country as beautifully as it is here in the east Tennessee mountains!

HIDDEN SHADOWS TRAILER!!!

2008-03-17T12:25:00.007-05:00

Yes, even books have trailer's now! :) I'm sure you've seen one somewhere before, as they are becoming popular ... But today, I have the enormous excitement of revealing the best trailer you've ever seen ;) - for Hidden Shadows!! I'm so excited about it and hope this glimpse gets you excited too!! Happy viewing everyone!!

And make sure to have your sound turned up!

Reviews, Reviews ... Where are you?

2008-03-08T13:10:00.006-06:00

O.K., so the next step in this interesting, wonderful journey called publishing is REVIEWS!! An exciting (hopefully rewarding!) and somewhat nerve-wracking time for an author. Right now, the Wild Rose has Hidden Shadows set to go, formatted, ready to be read & reviewed. The marketing team at Wild Rose will send out the novel to our publisher's typical reviewers, and if they choose, they can read and review Hidden Shadows.

So right now, I'm just waiting ... for a review and then the release! In the meantime, I'm finishing up the second and final book in the Shadows Series, Chasing Shadows ... but that's all for another day! As my mother says, "I can't focus on book number two; I haven't even read the first one!" She is a character, but she's right. An author usually is about 10 steps ahead of what the reader is experiencing, especially if a sequal or series is involved. Gotta get those books out there!

Back to reviews though, I'll also be sending out Hidden Shadows to some reviewers that are not on the marketing list from Wild Rose. Let's hope the reviewers are kind! :) I'll post when the first comes along.

Also, make sure to be checking back in ... I have something coming that is soooooo coooolll - you won't want to miss it!!

THEY'RE HEEEERE!...RELEASE DATES!

2008-02-25T11:48:00.015-06:00

Drumroll please!! The release dates for Hidden Shadows are finally here!! The e-book will be released MAY 30, 2008. And the print will come out almost 6 months later, NOVEMBER 28, 2008.

This is a very exciting time for me and I hope that you'll circle your calenders too for the event!

I'm glad of the November release, as Hidden Shadows takes place in autumn and winter. I like when what I'm reading fits with the season. :) Also, in case you didn't notice, November happens to be very close to December, which means ... Christmas!! Yes, yes, I know we just finished with the season and the very last thing you want to think about is cleaning out your bank account again to buy more presents, BUT, it's never too early to be thinking about gifts. And now, you have an idea! I'll be doing various book signings around this time, so maybe you can get a signed copy for yourself or a friend.

Whelp, this has been a weekend filled with hopeful news for me. Hope yours was the same. Enjoy your week and happy reading!

Info YOU Need to Know

2008-02-22T09:37:00.006-06:00

So, in about a week, I'll have the actual release dates for Hidden Shadows - both e-book and print. Can I get a "ya-hooo?!" :) 'Finally' is what I'm breathing with a sigh of relief! As I've said before, Wild Rose is faster than the average publishing company ... but for me, this journey feels like it is taking forever! All in good time though. This is a great way to learn patience and the ability to savor Today.

Also, to purchase Hidden Shadows through e-book will be a total of ... duh duh da da - $6.00! That's right, for the grand total of 6 big bucks you can download my labor of love! See, e-books are much cheaper than a hard copy. Maybe you'll consider purchasing one now?? :)

Hope you're all having a wonderful February and had a lovely and loving Valentine's. Here in the chilly air of east Tennessee, I am fervently praying for those spring buds! I'll let you know when they emerge and I'll post next week for the official dates. Thanks for checking in!

More About E-Books

2008-02-06T13:38:00.003-06:00

Yes, I've already written a mildy extensive post on e-books, but still, more questions abound! Here's some answers:

You don't have to have a special reader or pocket reader, or anything like that to purchase and read an e-book. It can be downloaded and installed on your own home/work unit ... be it a desktop or laptop. There is some software needed, but it is nothing that most computers don't already have or they are programs that are used frequently (Adobe, Acrobat, etc.)

Also, copywright laws still apply to e-books, so no copies will be made without permission from the author or publisher. Like most things these days, unfortunately, the ability to copy is out there, but the software used makes it pretty difficult. The way I see it though, when readers exchange hard copy books, that is similar to sharing an e-book with someone ... or copying it. As long as the copy is not used for plagerism, I'm o.k. I just want readers and all of you to, for now, enjoy reading my stories as much as I enjoy writing them!

Some people have asked me whether I prefer a reader buy the e-book or print version, and my answer is "I don't care - as long as it is bought!!" :) The truth is, the author does receive slighty more money (and the buyer pays less) when an e-book is purchased because paper and ink and covers and shipping and all those things aren't factored in as a cost/overhead for the publisher. But again, someone enjoying the story is my primary goal.

Below is a guide on The Wild Rose Press web site that is very helpful. I've picked some info out of their tips to answer many of the things you have asked about. If you'd like the extended version, there's a link below that will take you to the page.

How To Purchase E-Books

Once you find the title you'd like to purchase, be sure to select the file type you want. If you have a pocket pc or other handheld device, you may wish to buy either the Mobi Pocket or MS Reader version of the book. If you wish to read the book on your home computer, you will want to buy either the HTML or Adobe version. If you don't want to install the free Adobe Reader offered from Adobe.com, you can purchase the HTML version of the book.
After buying, you will download your purchases. Downloads do not occur automatically. You must click on the download file link on the page. You will save the book to your computer in a location of your choice.
If you should fail to download your purchases, all is not lost. In your invoice that is immediately emailed to you, there are links to your purchases. From there you can download the titles.

A neat thing to me is that Wild Rose accepts credit card payments as well as paypal! Just another small way to make things easier for you.

Below is the link for more info specific to buying e-books from the Wild Rose Press. It may be useful in a few weeks when you need to purchase a copy. :)

Wild Rose E-Book Buying

Hidden Shadows EXCERPT!

2008-01-23T20:51:00.003-06:00

It is finally here - the excerpt!! I have been saying for such a long time I would put it up, but I've wanted to wait until the release date got closer.

This is just a short excerpt that will be in the front of the book. Later, probably in March or so (maybe sooner) I'll post the Prologue, which will hopefully really get you involved in the story.

For now, this little bit is just a small sample.

Enjoy! And if you all are just dying for the Prologue, I might relent and divulge it sooner. :) But for that, I must have your comments, so comment away readers.

Hidden Shadows Excerpt

Ahh - I spoke too soon!!

2008-01-23T10:43:00.004-06:00

Well, it looks like I did just what the title says - spoke too soon. As I explained in the last post (if you haven't read it, go back here for explanation), Hidden Shadows is in the galley's - its last stop before publication. And I, being new to the publishing scene, just assumed that right after it's ready to go, it would, well ... go! As in go to be printed, go to be published, go to be released, etc. (Wouldn't you do the same??) BUT, I was mistaken.

Not to worry though, Hidden Shadows will still be available very soon ... just not as soon as I expected/hoped/told all you wonderful readers on here. :) As my editor informed me, we will get a release date very soon from the publishing company, but the date for e-book will probably be in the vicinity of April, while the print will be released in October. Though this is not as soon as I anticipated, it is in fact much quicker than your average publishing house.

When an author signs a contract with a company, usually, the novel is released about 2 years after that contract is signed. With Wild Rose, I'm looking at a year or less. Which, taking in the big picture, is pretty great! The Wild Rose Press is able to do this much faster because they are a smaller publishing house. They print many small/short stories called rosettes, while their full length novels, like Hidden Shadows, are called 'roses.' Since Wild Rose also largely produces e-books and only prints "full-length" novels (generally 70,000 words or more), their turn around time for production is much quicker than the huge publishing houses. So, thanks Wild Rose!

In the meantime though, while we all wait frustratingly and on the edge of our seat for this great novel to arrive :), we'll be entertained by reviews! (Let's hope the entertainment and comments are something to celebrate!) Of course, I'll pass along ANY reviews as they come.

Also, as promised, I'm posting an excerpt later today, and soon, I'll post more about those e-books (which I've gotten lots of questions on) and try to answer some of those.

The Galley's

2008-01-12T13:55:00.003-06:00

So the other day, I was sent the galley to Hidden Shadows. And what's a galley you might ask? Well, I shall tell you right here.

The galley phase of book publishing is when the company sends you (the author) the formatted version of your book, i.e. what your book will look like once it's actually printed. It is sent in a double page spread where the name of the book is on the top of one page, and the author's name is atop the other. Also, page numbers are on the bottom, your title page is added, dedication, etc.(And can I say, among friends here, that I almost cried when I saw the galley? Or at least smiled the goofiest/giddest smile I ever have - not withstanding my wedding day of course). It's an amazing sight to see your novel formatted, ready to be printed as a book. I don't have to say I'm excited for you to know it, right?! :)

And after so many weeks of taunting, I promise that this week, I'll put an excerpt up! Since I know the release date is so close, I feel like it's time to really start getting you all ready for the book ... and what better way than to reveal some of the plot!

Hope you tune in this week for a peek at Hidden Shadows.

What's an E-Book??

2008-01-06T14:08:00.006-06:00

This is a question I have received from many a people. Since Hidden Shadows will be premiering first in e-book, lots of readers have asked what this is and what it entails. Below, I've got Wikipedia's definition* of an e-book and some advantages to the electronic method of reading.

*An e-book (for electronic book) is the digital media equivalent of a conventional printed book. Such documents are either read on personal computers, or on dedicated hardware devices known as e-book readers or e-book devices.

Advantages

Less physical space is required to store e-books. Hundreds (or thousands) may be carried together on one device. Approximately 500 average e-books can be stored on one CD (equivalent to several shelves' worth of print books).
Because they take up little space, e-books can be offered indefinitely, with no 'out of print' date, allowing authors to continue to earn royalties indefinitely (copyright law permitting), and allowing readers to find older works by favorite authors.
Readers who have difficulty reading conventional books can benefit from the adjustment of text size and font face. Text-to-speech software can be used to automatically convert e-books to spoken books. In addition, e-books may be read in low light or even total darkness, with a back-lit device.
An ebook does not need to be held open like a paperback, so it can be much more comfortable to hold. It can also be set down and read hands-free.
Since there is only one page, there is not a problem with the text near the interior margin getting obscured or shadowed by the other page (as can happen with a paperback). This makes the book easier to see from a variety of angles. The lack of a flexible joint between a book's two pages also allows the book to be positioned on its side.
Readers can begin reading at once, without the need to visit a bookstore.
No environmental resources are consumed by e-book replication, cutting down on paper and ink production. Nor do e-books require to be replaced through wear and tear; there is no risk of damage, vandalism or degradation of the pages.

Alright, so there are just a few of the reasons that many people prefer (in this technological age) an e-book instead of a hard copy. Of course, e-books have their disadvantages too - as do printed books.

Me, I'm more of a hold it in your hand gal, thus preferring the old-fashioned kind of book ... But, it might be nice to give e-books a try and see if you like them. Why not make Hidden Shadows your first electronic read?? And if you decide you don't want to try it, (thus waiting even longer for a great read! :)) the print/hard copy will be available before long.

P.S. We are days away from a release date ... And availability in e-books!! Yay! We're in the 'galley' phase right now - the very final stage! I'll write more about that later and explain.

I jazzed up my page a bit, hope you like it! And if you have any suggestions, or questions about the writing/publishing process, please don't hesitate to ask. I'll be glad to post an answer for you.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

2007-12-21T13:53:00.004-06:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and you have an even better Christmas and New Year.

Things are moving right along here in the book world. The release has been delayed by a few days/weeks due to an excerpt from the second book in the Shadow Series (Chasing Shadows) being added to the end of Hidden Shadows. But, I'm sure by January, there'll be a book online! Exactly 6 months after the release of the e-book, the print version will come out.

Just wanted to say happy holiday's and update on that bit of news.

Oh, and to encourage you to use your time off this season! Even with all the hustle and bustle, make sure you get time to yourself ... Grab a good book, cuddle up by the fire or the tree and escape to whatever world your book takes you! :) I know I will.

Updated Link

2007-11-16T10:10:00.002-06:00

I updated the link below to my author page on The Wild Rose Press site. It looks similar to the old one, but a little spicier and better graphics. Wild Rose has been updating their site and I really like the changes they've been making.

Also, on my author page, you can read the blurb for Hidden Shadows.

Soon, there'll be reviews to read too - how exciting!

There's been some exciting progress on the book recently; I'll update soon with news! We're looking at an e-book by the end of the year! Yes!!

What a Christmas gift!

Too Long

2007-11-08T13:23:00.004-06:00

WHOA! It has been way too long since I updated. Sorry for the lengthy time away, but illness and edits have kept me from the blogging world! No worries though, I'm back :), and with good news.

My edits are done!! YAY! I worked like crazy and sent them back about 2 hours before the deadline last night! Whew. But they are complete.

Now, there a few more stages to go through, editing wise, then I sign off on the final manuscript, and we're off to print! I took a little bit longer with my edits than expected, so unfortunately, the release date may be pushed forward ... Nevertheless, Hidden Shadows will still be out there for you to read and buy, so don't despair! :)

I'll update in a few days with a new link. The Wild Rose has updated their site and I have a new author page.

Hope you are feeling fall's wonder and beauty as I am. Enjoy the changing season and coming holidays.

I'm READY, for One and Two!!

2007-10-03T10:33:00.003-05:00

O.k. everyone, the time is drawing near to when I should receive Hidden Shadows back from my editor, Jill. October 8th is the big day - and I can't wait for it to get here!! I'm so ready to see what changes she's made, make my own, then send it off to be printed!

Also, though I am fully concentrated on promoting Hidden Shadows and getting it released, I've also decided on the title of my second and final book in the Shadow Series which is steadily being finished. The working title for this fast-paced suspense is ... Chasing Shadows. But now I'm getting ahead of myself, aren't I? :)

Suffice it to say, I'm very excited as the time gets nearer for Hidden Shadows debut. I hope you'll join me in celebrating when the book finally does come out, and buy a copy! :)

Soon, I'll post an excerpt, then when Hidden Shadows is available in e-book, I'll post the first chapter or prologue so you can get a real taste of the story.

Get Ready to Read!

2007-09-18T11:16:00.003-05:00

Coming Soon from the Wild Rose Press's

Hidden Shadows

Lauren Hope

With a failed marriage and bitter betrayal tucked in her suitcase of baggage, Jenna Gregor is admittedly cynical and pessimistic concerning men and the prospect of a lasting relationship. When Bennett Aston sweeps into her life like a sturdy gust of wind, she jumps to defend herself at every angle from his easy confidence, southern charm, and unnerving good looks.

But in the shadows of Jenna’s past lay deep secrets. And there, a mad woman lurks in the darkness, ready to ruin all Jenna holds dear. As life as Jenna knows it begins to unravel, she finds herself in a tangled web of lies, suspicion, and murder. She must look deep inside herself to find the courage for forgiveness, trust, and self-acceptance. Only then will she discover love, redemption, and ultimately, survival.

Revisions ... and how it all works

2007-09-05T15:37:00.005-05:00

So, I'm posting the new version of my cover. Just a small revision, but one change can make a big difference - that's what I thought in this case!

Also, I've had several people ask me how the process works, and most of all - "When's the book coming out??!" Well, here are some answers ...

My editor, Jill, is meticulously editing the book as you read this, and will have the final, polished version to me by October 8th (or as she says, earlier if she's fast!). I then have 30 days to look over what she's recommended and approve or disapprove the changes. When I'm satisfied with the edits, I'll send it back to Jill who'll then send it on to the publishers to put into PDF format for the e-book. Once they give Hidden Shadows a once-over, they'll send it to me one last time - the final, final version - and if I approve it, it'll be online for you to purchase! In 6 months time, it'll be on the shelves, ready for you to buy, and me to sign if you so choose. :)

Currently, tentative locations for book signings are Knoxville, Nashville, and Jackson TN. If, of course, Hidden Shadows is a success, I'll move to cities and states out, over, up, down - anywhere I'm wanted!

All that being said, you can expect to purchase Hidden Shadows in e-book by the end of this year, and pick up a print copy in the spring of 2008! Good news for me and hopefully you readers out there!

As always, thanks for stopping by and for all your comments.

TA-DA!

2007-08-28T17:21:00.003-05:00

As you can see, my cover for Hidden Shadows is here!! What an overwhelming feeling to see your work inspire a work of art. My artist at the Wild Rose did an amazing job - thanks Kim! This may not be the final version you'll see in print, but it'll be pretty close...and I couldn't be happier with it.

Also, my author page is up at the Wild Rose website, so go take a look! There, you'll find my author bio from my previous post and a preview of Hidden Shadows. (I'll post the blurb here on the blog too.)

Thanks for stopping in! It won't be long until you can read the story of Jenna Gregor, her two rambunctious children, the charming Bennett Aston, and the secrets that haunt their lives...

Check back for release dates and book signings coming to your town!

WELCOME!

2007-08-24T13:28:00.003-05:00

Hello Everyone!

First off, I'll say thanks for visiting my blog. I'm glad you're here to read about my work, and hopefully while you're here, you'll become a fan of Lauren Hope!

To start, I'll let you know a little about myself. Here's my author bio page on my publisher's website which I think is a pretty good description:

Lauren’s been reading her whole life and is thrilled to be on the other side of the book, with her name on the cover. Romance novels became a big part of her life in high school and college, and she had a stash of them with her on many journey’s—counseling Girl Scouts at a summer camp, studying abroad in Italy, and while obtaining a B.S. degree in Communication. After a few years reporting and at the anchor’s desk and one bad experience working for a bad politician, Lauren decided to write her own stories—the ones continually floating around in her head.

Her life became like the romances she so loved when a childhood friend reentered, grown-up and handsome and taking her heart. She and her husband, Michael, live in the mountainous air of east Tennessee in a small house with a big yard and an even bigger love.

Well, that about sums up why I started writing, and some info about who I am. I'm extremely excited for the upcoming release of Hidden Shadows, and will soon post a blurb so you can get a glimpse into an original story of adventure, murder, and love.

Happy reading, and again, thanks for stopping by!