I've set up a website just for the two new books in the Twist of Fate series. Since I believe very much in fate it was one of the things that happened at the right time---I think.
Visit http://www.devils-dance.com/ and see what you think. It's still under construction but I wanted something that would only be about my books.
ARLISS
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
I'm featured in an interview by Don McCauley today, October 28, on "The Authors Show" www.theauthorsshow.com.
He interviewed me about the new Devil's Dance and The Devil's Due books, written as Arliss Adams, and we discussed how the new romantic suspense Twist of Fate series came to be and many things about my writing process. We also talked a little about my funny Silver Sisters Mysteries series.
If you have a chance, listen to it. It will run all day until midnight, but only on October 28 at this time.
MORGAN ST. JAMES
www.morganstjames-author.com
www.arlissadams-author.com
He interviewed me about the new Devil's Dance and The Devil's Due books, written as Arliss Adams, and we discussed how the new romantic suspense Twist of Fate series came to be and many things about my writing process. We also talked a little about my funny Silver Sisters Mysteries series.
If you have a chance, listen to it. It will run all day until midnight, but only on October 28 at this time.
MORGAN ST. JAMES
www.morganstjames-author.com
www.arlissadams-author.com
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
http://ping.fm/jJPTL
Aileen Baron - this archaelogist writes thrilling mysteries using her expertise. The story is interesting. She didn't start out to be an archaeologist.
Aileen Baron - this archaelogist writes thrilling mysteries using her expertise. The story is interesting. She didn't start out to be an archaeologist.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Vital Germaine literally made lemonade (a success) out of lemons (the life he was might have had) and became a respected performer with Cirque du Soleil, a choreographer, artist and author. http://ping.fm/9A4ZE
Friday, October 22, 2010
Fun example today about taking one character and his background, one story and varying the theme. http://ping.fm/4Kqfi
MORGAN ST. JAMES
Los Angeles and Las Vegas Writing Examiner
MORGAN ST. JAMES
Los Angeles and Las Vegas Writing Examiner
Thursday, October 21, 2010
DON'T LET YOURSELF GET STUCK IN A RUT. You don’t have to be a writer to put today’s tips to work. Expand your horizons. http://exm.nr/tricks27
MORGAN ST. JAMES
www.morganstjames-author.com
Los Angeles and Las Vegas Writing Examiner for www.examiner.com
MORGAN ST. JAMES
www.morganstjames-author.com
Los Angeles and Las Vegas Writing Examiner for www.examiner.com
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Today’s Spotlight interview in the Los Angeles edition of www.exainer.com with Jeri Westerson was fascinating. LINK: http://exm.nr/jeriw-la
A lot of research and considerations go into writing historical mysteries set in medieval London. I love the idea of her protagonist being a knight who is a detective. I think you will really enjoy this one.
Comments are appreciated. Just scroll down to the box at the bottom of the article to make one. If you are not a subscriber, you can sign in with your Facebook account to comment. If you enjoy reading these columns, why not click the subscribe button at the top of the examiner page. It’s free and you will automatically receive Spotlights and Writers Tricks of the Trade. This Spotlight is in the Los Angeles edition.
MORGAN ST. JAMES
www.morganstjames-author.com
A lot of research and considerations go into writing historical mysteries set in medieval London. I love the idea of her protagonist being a knight who is a detective. I think you will really enjoy this one.
Comments are appreciated. Just scroll down to the box at the bottom of the article to make one. If you are not a subscriber, you can sign in with your Facebook account to comment. If you enjoy reading these columns, why not click the subscribe button at the top of the examiner page. It’s free and you will automatically receive Spotlights and Writers Tricks of the Trade. This Spotlight is in the Los Angeles edition.
MORGAN ST. JAMES
www.morganstjames-author.com
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Today's Spotlight article in the Las Vegas issue of Examiner.com is Irene Watson - a woman with a vision. Happy reading! Look forward to your comments. http://exm.nr/watson-lv
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
We think things are changing, but history keeps repeating itself
We are constantly being blasted with political ads. Everyone and every party points the finger at problems with the economy, claiming it's the other guy's fault. Let's face it---things aren't great. That is certainly no secret. But is this something new? Absolutely not. It's just worse than it's been in the past.
I got a real surprise this week. I was going through some old papers, and found a copy of a letter my mother wrote to George Bush Sr. on January 27, 1992. Everything had been carefully saved in the yellowed manila White House envelope that contained an answer from Barbara Bush on White House notepaper.The math is easy. It was 18 years ago. Mom died just before turning 97, but she was 82 at the time. After reading the documents contained in that envelope, I thought that it was worth accurately copying and including both in this blog. I think you will find they have an eerie ring of familiarity.
January 27, 1992
Dear Mr. Bush:
I listen to the news every day and all I can get out of it is that times are very rough. Companies are going out of business daily and workers are out of jobs.
People are in a dilemma, especially the couples with small children. The first thing they do is to apply for welfare, and that doesn't go very far. Between food, rent and clothing it is like "Gone With the Wind."
I am 82 years old and I have lived through the depression years of the 30's, but if I remember right in those days we had the W.P.A. workers. They were put to work repairing roads, bridges and farming and earned their pay that way instead of being given welfare.
Welfare is a degrading way for most people, but working for it gives a person back his self esteem. It really doesn't matter what work you do as long as you earn it. Goodness knows this country can sure use plenty of repair work.
This letter is written in good faith and hopefully with the best of intentions to help improve the economic conditions.
Rosetta Lachman
On March 20, 1992 this reply was written on White House notepaper and signed Barbara Bush :
Dear Ms. Lachman,
Thank you so much for your kind message and for your thoughtful comments. I will make sure George knows of your concerns and suggestions.
Warmly,
Barbara Bush
The point is, I'm sure letters like my Mom's have been written to the White House and Congress for many, many years. It's nothing new. However, I certainly applaud the fact that this woman in her 80's took the steps to write and voice her opinion.
That letter could easily have been written now. Somehow it reminds me of an old-fashioned record with the needle caught in the same groove, calling out the same problems and suggesting a viable solution---at least a partial one---over and over.
Isn't it time for things to really change? Time to cut out the game playing among politicians on both sides of the fence along with conflicting special interest groups and get on with passing plain language legislation that actually gets something done?
Arliss
I got a real surprise this week. I was going through some old papers, and found a copy of a letter my mother wrote to George Bush Sr. on January 27, 1992. Everything had been carefully saved in the yellowed manila White House envelope that contained an answer from Barbara Bush on White House notepaper.The math is easy. It was 18 years ago. Mom died just before turning 97, but she was 82 at the time. After reading the documents contained in that envelope, I thought that it was worth accurately copying and including both in this blog. I think you will find they have an eerie ring of familiarity.
January 27, 1992
Dear Mr. Bush:
I listen to the news every day and all I can get out of it is that times are very rough. Companies are going out of business daily and workers are out of jobs.
People are in a dilemma, especially the couples with small children. The first thing they do is to apply for welfare, and that doesn't go very far. Between food, rent and clothing it is like "Gone With the Wind."
I am 82 years old and I have lived through the depression years of the 30's, but if I remember right in those days we had the W.P.A. workers. They were put to work repairing roads, bridges and farming and earned their pay that way instead of being given welfare.
Welfare is a degrading way for most people, but working for it gives a person back his self esteem. It really doesn't matter what work you do as long as you earn it. Goodness knows this country can sure use plenty of repair work.
This letter is written in good faith and hopefully with the best of intentions to help improve the economic conditions.
Rosetta Lachman
On March 20, 1992 this reply was written on White House notepaper and signed Barbara Bush :
Dear Ms. Lachman,
Thank you so much for your kind message and for your thoughtful comments. I will make sure George knows of your concerns and suggestions.
Warmly,
Barbara Bush
The point is, I'm sure letters like my Mom's have been written to the White House and Congress for many, many years. It's nothing new. However, I certainly applaud the fact that this woman in her 80's took the steps to write and voice her opinion.
That letter could easily have been written now. Somehow it reminds me of an old-fashioned record with the needle caught in the same groove, calling out the same problems and suggesting a viable solution---at least a partial one---over and over.
Isn't it time for things to really change? Time to cut out the game playing among politicians on both sides of the fence along with conflicting special interest groups and get on with passing plain language legislation that actually gets something done?
Arliss
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
EXCERPT FROM "DEVIL'S DANCE"
TEENAGER JEANETTE CONNOR WAKES UP IN A STRANGE ROOM, BOUND AND GAGGED. FROM THE END OF CHAPTER 1:
That laugh. It was one I recognized. He moved toward me. “I told you, the cops will think she ran away.” Sherry’s boyfriend Tommy was in the room, too.
Her face grew fuzzy again, as though it were veiled by a piece of chiffon. She said, “Yeah, if we’re lucky. I’m keepin’ my fingers crossed it goes that way, Tommy Boy!”
I wandered through the haze of my mind, wincing at disjointed memories of a horrible fight Mama and I had last November. That was when I realized she would never sign the contract the New York City Ballet had offered me. After that, everything in me faded away until there was nothing left.
I still walked to the bus stop on Clark Street after school every day, then took the bus to the Vaganova Academy on Howard Street, just like I used to. But I only watched the other dancers. My existence became that of a body without a soul. I knew I’d never dance again.
I’d first seen Tommy at the Academy, sitting on my chair in the corner watching the others. He winked and said, “Hey, gorgeous, how about a smile for the new piano player?”
It had been one of those days when I felt more like a robot than a person, but that wasn’t unusual. Since the fight with Mama, I was like that most days. When I was the robot-me, I could shut off my feelings. That was much better than wanting to cry all the time. Tommy used to tease me about having the saddest eyes he’d ever seen, but he never got a rise out of me.
Now both Sherry and Tommy stood there staring at me like I was a piece of meat in the butcher’s case. My eyes darted around the room frantically while the pounding of my heart echoed in my ears. I kept telling myself it was okay because the walking dead aren’t supposed to care about anything. I tried not to be afraid. It didn’t work. I was petrified.
Tiny blood red specks blinked furiously on the dark blanket inside my head, growing larger and larger, until everything turned pitch black.
That laugh. It was one I recognized. He moved toward me. “I told you, the cops will think she ran away.” Sherry’s boyfriend Tommy was in the room, too.
Her face grew fuzzy again, as though it were veiled by a piece of chiffon. She said, “Yeah, if we’re lucky. I’m keepin’ my fingers crossed it goes that way, Tommy Boy!”
I wandered through the haze of my mind, wincing at disjointed memories of a horrible fight Mama and I had last November. That was when I realized she would never sign the contract the New York City Ballet had offered me. After that, everything in me faded away until there was nothing left.
I still walked to the bus stop on Clark Street after school every day, then took the bus to the Vaganova Academy on Howard Street, just like I used to. But I only watched the other dancers. My existence became that of a body without a soul. I knew I’d never dance again.
I’d first seen Tommy at the Academy, sitting on my chair in the corner watching the others. He winked and said, “Hey, gorgeous, how about a smile for the new piano player?”
It had been one of those days when I felt more like a robot than a person, but that wasn’t unusual. Since the fight with Mama, I was like that most days. When I was the robot-me, I could shut off my feelings. That was much better than wanting to cry all the time. Tommy used to tease me about having the saddest eyes he’d ever seen, but he never got a rise out of me.
Now both Sherry and Tommy stood there staring at me like I was a piece of meat in the butcher’s case. My eyes darted around the room frantically while the pounding of my heart echoed in my ears. I kept telling myself it was okay because the walking dead aren’t supposed to care about anything. I tried not to be afraid. It didn’t work. I was petrified.
Tiny blood red specks blinked furiously on the dark blanket inside my head, growing larger and larger, until everything turned pitch black.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
TALKING ABOUT AUDIO BOOKS
There are so many other elements that go into making a good audio book besides the writing. As my audio publisher said at the Las Vegas Writers Conference, "a good narrator can make a bad book sound good and a bad narrator can kill a good one."
I'm going to take that one step farther. You can have a decent narrator whose voice is not suited to the project. That also does not work because it lacks credibility.
I recently finished an audio book written by an author I really like who has so many books in print it makes my head spin and it was published by a big-name audio publisher. So I expected nothing but the best. I found glitches in the story, but as an author I'm more aware of looking for them. I probably could have dealt with that, but the protagonist is a divorced woman private eye who wants to strike out on her own with no assistance from her tough ex-husband and cop father.
All well and good. The problem is the narrator's voice sounds like a very young girl, maybe twelve or thirteen, although I know she's a grown woman. Somehow this "teenescent" voice does not lend itself to you picturing her acting like a badass. It sounds more like a little girl playing make believe. Maybe I'm too critical. Maybe it's just me. But I want my characters to at least have a ring of reality in an audio book.
I've heard this narrator before and the minute I remembered the voice I remembered that my reaction was the same. What's this little kid doing telling the story?
Once I met a woman in her forties who did voiceover and was astounded when she opened her mouth to speak. She sounded like a five year old and that's what she was cast as for her voiceover work. She said directors loved working with her because although she sounded like a little kid she was a grown woman who took direction in an adult way.
Another thing that bothered me and interrupted the flow of the story was an inordinate number of "he said," "she said," "I said." Hey, I know who's supposed to be saying it. Particularly in the audio edition, I should be able to tell by the voice. After a while you try to blank all the "saids" out. But there should be a policy of reducing the amount of those tags in an audio book. It is REALLY annoying.
Arliss
I'm going to take that one step farther. You can have a decent narrator whose voice is not suited to the project. That also does not work because it lacks credibility.
I recently finished an audio book written by an author I really like who has so many books in print it makes my head spin and it was published by a big-name audio publisher. So I expected nothing but the best. I found glitches in the story, but as an author I'm more aware of looking for them. I probably could have dealt with that, but the protagonist is a divorced woman private eye who wants to strike out on her own with no assistance from her tough ex-husband and cop father.
All well and good. The problem is the narrator's voice sounds like a very young girl, maybe twelve or thirteen, although I know she's a grown woman. Somehow this "teenescent" voice does not lend itself to you picturing her acting like a badass. It sounds more like a little girl playing make believe. Maybe I'm too critical. Maybe it's just me. But I want my characters to at least have a ring of reality in an audio book.
I've heard this narrator before and the minute I remembered the voice I remembered that my reaction was the same. What's this little kid doing telling the story?
Once I met a woman in her forties who did voiceover and was astounded when she opened her mouth to speak. She sounded like a five year old and that's what she was cast as for her voiceover work. She said directors loved working with her because although she sounded like a little kid she was a grown woman who took direction in an adult way.
Another thing that bothered me and interrupted the flow of the story was an inordinate number of "he said," "she said," "I said." Hey, I know who's supposed to be saying it. Particularly in the audio edition, I should be able to tell by the voice. After a while you try to blank all the "saids" out. But there should be a policy of reducing the amount of those tags in an audio book. It is REALLY annoying.
Arliss
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
DOING THE HAPPY DANCE -- AGAIN!
I've just begun to listen to the audio book edition of my new romantic suspense novel, Devil's Dance. Wow. Narrator Andrea Bates sure got it right. You can feel the terror of the kidnapped seventeen year old Jen Connor as she awakens from a drugged stupor only to find she's been sold to a high-class brothel.
I'm an avid audio book listener and even though this one is mine, I highly recommend it as an excellent audio book that will grab you and won't let go until the end.
Even then, it's not over, because in November the sequel, The Devils Due, will be released by Books in Motion. You can listen to an audio clip of Devil's Dance at the publisher's website: http://www.booksinmotion.com/.
Devil's Dance is now available in trade paperback, Kindle, e-book, CD audio and MP3.
The Devil's Due will be released in trade paperback, Kindle and e-book in October.
Arliss
I'm an avid audio book listener and even though this one is mine, I highly recommend it as an excellent audio book that will grab you and won't let go until the end.
Even then, it's not over, because in November the sequel, The Devils Due, will be released by Books in Motion. You can listen to an audio clip of Devil's Dance at the publisher's website: http://www.booksinmotion.com/.
Devil's Dance is now available in trade paperback, Kindle, e-book, CD audio and MP3.
The Devil's Due will be released in trade paperback, Kindle and e-book in October.
Arliss
Friday, August 20, 2010
Sunday, August 15, 2010
ALL KINDS OF COURAGE
Have you ever wondered what it takes to be called courageous? Is it simply charging into the face of danger against all odds? Not in my book. It is the strength to face the odds whatever they are, and that doesn't only mean the hand-to-hand combat that thrills us in books and movies.
In Devil's Dance and The Devil's Due, Jen Connor must find her inner strength to go on after life has dealt her some cruel blows. She's a teenager who grew up as part of what I call the "obedient generation"--those kids of the 40s and 50s who didn't make waves, pretty much did what they were told and accepted authority without question most of the time.
It took courage for her to find her inner self and realize that although broken in spirit and for a time health as well, she had survived and now she was her own person. That happens in real life. People rise from the ashes of horrible experiences to go on and achieve, to live rewarding lives and to even affect the lives of others in positive ways.
I received a phone call from a male friend who was reading an advance copy of The Devil's Due. His voice didn't sound right, and I feared something bad had happened. Fortunately, that wasn't the case. "I thought you'd like to know you made me cry."
I made a man cry? Well, not me but my book. "What you've done with Jen Connor, the way you've developed her character, actually made me cry. Now I see what you meant when you said the men who read these two books become very protective of Jen. Her courage."
Then there is the courage of staying strong in the face of extreme health issues. Those stalwart people who voice things like "I've got cancer, it doesn't have me."
Recently I hadn't received replies to e-mails of an old grammar school friend from Chicago. We had stayed in touch, rediscovering each other about four years ago. I loved getting her upbeat e-mails, funny comments, thoughts about life. Once a very active woman, she had lost both legs to diabetes and was confined to a wheelchair. She managed to stay so positive, so funny despite her disability. She lived in Tucson and we wrote about my possibly coming to Arizona one day so we could see each other in person. That won't happen. I was concerned about not receiving answers and feared the worst, so I searched her name on the internet and found her obituary. Her courage never ran out...her time did.
ARLISS
In Devil's Dance and The Devil's Due, Jen Connor must find her inner strength to go on after life has dealt her some cruel blows. She's a teenager who grew up as part of what I call the "obedient generation"--those kids of the 40s and 50s who didn't make waves, pretty much did what they were told and accepted authority without question most of the time.
It took courage for her to find her inner self and realize that although broken in spirit and for a time health as well, she had survived and now she was her own person. That happens in real life. People rise from the ashes of horrible experiences to go on and achieve, to live rewarding lives and to even affect the lives of others in positive ways.
I received a phone call from a male friend who was reading an advance copy of The Devil's Due. His voice didn't sound right, and I feared something bad had happened. Fortunately, that wasn't the case. "I thought you'd like to know you made me cry."
I made a man cry? Well, not me but my book. "What you've done with Jen Connor, the way you've developed her character, actually made me cry. Now I see what you meant when you said the men who read these two books become very protective of Jen. Her courage."
Then there is the courage of staying strong in the face of extreme health issues. Those stalwart people who voice things like "I've got cancer, it doesn't have me."
Recently I hadn't received replies to e-mails of an old grammar school friend from Chicago. We had stayed in touch, rediscovering each other about four years ago. I loved getting her upbeat e-mails, funny comments, thoughts about life. Once a very active woman, she had lost both legs to diabetes and was confined to a wheelchair. She managed to stay so positive, so funny despite her disability. She lived in Tucson and we wrote about my possibly coming to Arizona one day so we could see each other in person. That won't happen. I was concerned about not receiving answers and feared the worst, so I searched her name on the internet and found her obituary. Her courage never ran out...her time did.
ARLISS
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
OKAY! NOW IT'S GETTING EXCITING
DEVIL'S DANCE has been released on Amazon in Kindle and paperback. The audio book will be out by the end of the month. That is really exciting after all these years of working on the manuscript. Barnes and Noble online has listed it for release on August 28 and they list the release date for THE DEVIL'S DUE as September 28.
But, here is the good news. They are offering a super pre-release price, so check it out. I set up a Tiny URL link to the page on their site to make it easier to find: http://bit.ly/B-N-Adams
After spending so many years committed to writing these books I feel like doing a dance myself. But then, I was drummed out of ballet school when I was a little kid. Like most five-year-olds, my mother thought I would be a graceful gazelle, and the costumes were cool. Well, I did have great pointe and do to this day. I just didn't have anything else. After that she enrolled me in the Krasner School of Dramatics and Singing. With a voice destined to go off tune and at that time in my life a very shy nature...that's not true anymore...the Krasner experiment was a flop as well.
When I did find my true passion, it was writing. I invite you to read DEVIL'S DANCE and THE DEVIL'S DUE. Afterwards, I would love it if you posted reviews either on blogs or Amazon or both.
Thanks,
Arliss
P.S. At least I don't trip over my own feet anymore, but unlike my protagonist Jen Connor, I never would have made it past barre exercises in ballet!
But, here is the good news. They are offering a super pre-release price, so check it out. I set up a Tiny URL link to the page on their site to make it easier to find: http://bit.ly/B-N-Adams
After spending so many years committed to writing these books I feel like doing a dance myself. But then, I was drummed out of ballet school when I was a little kid. Like most five-year-olds, my mother thought I would be a graceful gazelle, and the costumes were cool. Well, I did have great pointe and do to this day. I just didn't have anything else. After that she enrolled me in the Krasner School of Dramatics and Singing. With a voice destined to go off tune and at that time in my life a very shy nature...that's not true anymore...the Krasner experiment was a flop as well.
When I did find my true passion, it was writing. I invite you to read DEVIL'S DANCE and THE DEVIL'S DUE. Afterwards, I would love it if you posted reviews either on blogs or Amazon or both.
Thanks,
Arliss
P.S. At least I don't trip over my own feet anymore, but unlike my protagonist Jen Connor, I never would have made it past barre exercises in ballet!
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Writers Tricks of the Trade - Making a Choice - Part III
Writers Tricks of the Trade - Making a Choice - Part III
This is the last part of Making a Choice. Next week a new topic in Writers Tricks of the Trade.
This is the last part of Making a Choice. Next week a new topic in Writers Tricks of the Trade.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Spotlight: Introduction to First Chapter Plus and two new books
Spotlight: Introduction to First Chapter Plus and two new books
The column includes information about my two new books. Release time is drawing near. Arliss
The column includes information about my two new books. Release time is drawing near. Arliss
Saturday, July 31, 2010
BEAUTIFUL DAY IN MARINA DEL REY CALIFORNIA
Okay, now that I've sat at the computer working for half a day, it's time to enjoy the beautiful weather in Marina Del Rey CA. In a few days I'll be back in Las Vegas, having said goodbye to the ocean breezes.
There is a free concert at Burton Chase Park in the Marina tonight, and the performer is James Darren. Those old enough to remember Moon Doggie in the Gidget movie, or anyone who rented it as a classic, will remember him. Darren is back performing. Actually, I'm not sure he ever left, but I've begun hearing about him again. He was at the South Pointe in Las Vegas a few weeks ago..jpg)
It's nice to have things like that in walking distance when I'm in California. Next week will be almost completely devoted to marketing and preparing to market Devil's Dance, so I plan to take it a bit easy for the weekend.
Time to shut down the computer and get out in the sunshine!
Arliss
Friday, July 30, 2010
MOVING RIGHT ALONG...
As a book moves from galley to publication, there are the milestones in a writer's life. Today I noticed that "Devil's Dance" is now available on Fictionwise. That's the beginning. The other e-book online stores should follow soon, with the paperback and Kindle releases in August. The audio book is also supposed to release in August.
Yesterday was the first press release. It came on a day that one of the news items was about remembering a kidnap/murder victim. As I keep saying, although we think atrocities like that never happen to people we know, that girl had friends and family. That's why my books Devil's Dance and The Devil's Due are dedicated to those who survived...and those who didn't.
I ordered my bookmarks and discussed other print materials today. The thing you learn early on as an author is that the books don't sell themselves. You have to be right on top of it, thinking of and carrying out all of the things that will bring attention to "your babies."
This is when the real work begins!
Arliss
Yesterday was the first press release. It came on a day that one of the news items was about remembering a kidnap/murder victim. As I keep saying, although we think atrocities like that never happen to people we know, that girl had friends and family. That's why my books Devil's Dance and The Devil's Due are dedicated to those who survived...and those who didn't.
I ordered my bookmarks and discussed other print materials today. The thing you learn early on as an author is that the books don't sell themselves. You have to be right on top of it, thinking of and carrying out all of the things that will bring attention to "your babies."
This is when the real work begins!
Arliss
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Today's Writers Tricks of the Trade column in Examiner.com
Today's column discusses tricks writers can use to draw readers into their character, such as delays and dreams. Devil's Dance and The Devil's Due are used as examples. Check it out. http://exm.nr/choices2
Arliss
Arliss
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
THE TIME FOR SERIOUS PROMOTION IS DRAWING NEAR
I received the advance paperback copies of DEVIL'S DANCE and THE DEVIL'S DUE, as well as promotional posters. What a great feeling to see these books that I have lived with for over fifteen years finally in print. Can't wait to hear the audio books now.
It's been quite a journey, from the time I first felt compelled to write this story. As a magazine article writer, I didn't know the first thing about writing fiction. Unfortunately when I showed my draft to a friend, an author with thrillers in publication, his comment was that it would never get published. As with anything else, I had to learn my craft. The mere fact that magazines and newspapers published my articles, didn't mean I could write fiction. The year was 1996.
With each rewrite I learned more, but still didn't have the formula for this particular story. Time passed and my sister and I launched a funny mystery series. The first book (written as Morgan St. James and Phyllice Bradner) won an award. The second in the series was finished and nearing publication. I'd learned to write fiction, but the tale told in DEVIL'S DANCE and THE DEVIL'S DUE is deeply emotional. The characters had to grab at the heartstrings and not let go. Not at all like writing humor. Sometimes I sat at my computer crying as I identified with the protagonist.
The situations had to have the reader at the edge of their seat, waiting to find out what happened next. And the two loves of Jen Connor's life had to be tender and make the reader root for them and cheer them on. Not an easy task. Mix in creating villains that made more than one of my first readers admonish: They better get punished at the end. You can't let them get off. My female and male first readers alike became very protective of Jen Connor. She had become the three-dimensional character I strived to create all of those years.
After seven rewrites, I was finally there and L&L Dreamspell and Books in Motion are bringing this story to life.
This is fiction, but every day newspapers and TV tell stories that are not that different. I've dedicated the books to all the young women who have been kidnapped, raped and even sold into brothels like Jen Connor was. Those who survived and those who did not.
Visit my website, http://www.arlissadams-author.com/ for more information or http://www.lldreamspell.com/. Look for releases in August and September. I welcome letters from readers.
Arliss
It's been quite a journey, from the time I first felt compelled to write this story. As a magazine article writer, I didn't know the first thing about writing fiction. Unfortunately when I showed my draft to a friend, an author with thrillers in publication, his comment was that it would never get published. As with anything else, I had to learn my craft. The mere fact that magazines and newspapers published my articles, didn't mean I could write fiction. The year was 1996.
With each rewrite I learned more, but still didn't have the formula for this particular story. Time passed and my sister and I launched a funny mystery series. The first book (written as Morgan St. James and Phyllice Bradner) won an award. The second in the series was finished and nearing publication. I'd learned to write fiction, but the tale told in DEVIL'S DANCE and THE DEVIL'S DUE is deeply emotional. The characters had to grab at the heartstrings and not let go. Not at all like writing humor. Sometimes I sat at my computer crying as I identified with the protagonist.
The situations had to have the reader at the edge of their seat, waiting to find out what happened next. And the two loves of Jen Connor's life had to be tender and make the reader root for them and cheer them on. Not an easy task. Mix in creating villains that made more than one of my first readers admonish: They better get punished at the end. You can't let them get off. My female and male first readers alike became very protective of Jen Connor. She had become the three-dimensional character I strived to create all of those years.
After seven rewrites, I was finally there and L&L Dreamspell and Books in Motion are bringing this story to life.
This is fiction, but every day newspapers and TV tell stories that are not that different. I've dedicated the books to all the young women who have been kidnapped, raped and even sold into brothels like Jen Connor was. Those who survived and those who did not.
Visit my website, http://www.arlissadams-author.com/ for more information or http://www.lldreamspell.com/. Look for releases in August and September. I welcome letters from readers.
Arliss
Sunday, July 25, 2010
FOLLOW UP TO "TO BE OR NOT TO BE"
After seeing this movie released in 1942, all I can say is "fantastic!" The credits in those day were so short they could run right after the title shot. If they did that now, everyone would leave before the feature finally started some eight to ten minutes later.
What a movie. If you get a chance to see it, please do. Jack Benny with his wonderful gift for timing was suberb as was Carole Lombard. It was the last movie she made before she was killed in a plane crash. The sight jokes were hysterical, and of course almost any movie made by the famed director Ernst Lubitsch had his signature flair for tongue-in-cheek inuendos and really funny comedy. "The Lubitsch Touch" was a phrase concocted by studio PR men eager to turn a great director, Ernst Lubitsch, into a brand name. His sophisticated type of humor was not the kind that needs a laugh track to tell you it's time to chuckle or laugh out loud. You simply can't help it...it's funny, so you laugh.
This is a black comedy about a Polish theater company--led by Joseph and Maria Tura (Jack Benny and Carole Lombard)--that turns to espionage after being shut down by the invading Nazis. Also featured in the movie was a very young Robert Stack as the pilot who has a crush on Maria. However she is in love with her husband, a "ham" actor at best. The signal she has arranged for the pilot to come back to her dressing room is that he is to sit in the second row and leave as soon as Joseph says "To be or not to be." This happens on several evenings as the lovestruck pilot tries to make Maria fall for him. The fact that someone repeatedly leaves at that exact moment in his performance on several occasions infuriates Joseph. It later comes into play as a coded message when the Nazi's have invaded Poland.
The movie was remade in the 80's starring Mel Brooks and Anne Bancroft in an equally stellar appearance, but there is something about the fact that the earlier version was actually made when the Nazis were at war that gives it a special quality. So special, in fact, that it was banned from being shown in some places because it made fun and sport of what was really a threat to the United States.
End of report...ARLISS
 |
| DIRECTOR ERNST LUBITSCH |
ABOUT THE LUBITSCH TOUCH: "A style that is gracefully charming and fluid, with an . . . ingenious ability to suggest more than it showed . . ."The large Bing Theater at the Los Angeles County Art Museum was filled with moviegoers who appreciate classic movies and constantly rang with laughter and applause from the audience.
-- Leland A. Poague
 |
| CAROLE LOMBARD & JACK BENNY |
The movie was remade in the 80's starring Mel Brooks and Anne Bancroft in an equally stellar appearance, but there is something about the fact that the earlier version was actually made when the Nazis were at war that gives it a special quality. So special, in fact, that it was banned from being shown in some places because it made fun and sport of what was really a threat to the United States.
End of report...ARLISS
Friday, July 23, 2010
THERE IS SOMETHING TO BE SAID FOR OLD MOVIES
Tomorrow I head back to Los Angeles and in the evening plan to see the original 1942 version of "To Be or Not To Be" starring Jack Benny and Carole Lombard at the Bing Theater at the Los Angeles Art Museum.
I've seen it before as well as the 1983 remake with Mel Brooks and Anne Bancroft.
Both versions are so funny that I jump at the chance to see them again. Some movies are like that. You never get tired of watching them. As an author, I believe it has to do with plot...can you watch it again even when you know what will happen?, the actors...like audio books good actors can make a bad movie seem good and vice versa. When you have both, well, it's on the list that qualifies for "see again." There are many other factors, of course, but I think those are the main two paired with the director and editing.
In this case, during the Nazi occupation of Poland, an acting troupe becomes embroiled in a Polish soldier's efforts to track down a German spy. What follows, regardless of which version you are watching, is totally belly laugh hilarious. No special effects, no list of credits that is longer than the movie...just great writing, great acting and great direction.
If you have theaters in your town that show classics like this, occasionally consider choosing a wonderful old movie instead of one that will be around for a while. Sometimes these are fleeting opportunities--a graphic look at what excellent writing and/or acting can create in the viewer's mind. They are a delight to watch on the big screen.
The terrific thing about the Bing, is being in close proximity to Hollywood, they often have one of the actors, directors or producers of these great old gems as special guests for a talk before the movie. Now, that's showbiz!
That's not to say there weren't lots of sappy, syrupy movies made in those days. They abounded. But then there were the pearls among the oysters. Those are the ones I watch for. Another favorite is "Now Voyager" with Bette Davis. What great acting!
Okay, now it's time to venture into the 100+ heat we're having in Las Vegas.
Keep cool.
Arliss
I've seen it before as well as the 1983 remake with Mel Brooks and Anne Bancroft.
Both versions are so funny that I jump at the chance to see them again. Some movies are like that. You never get tired of watching them. As an author, I believe it has to do with plot...can you watch it again even when you know what will happen?, the actors...like audio books good actors can make a bad movie seem good and vice versa. When you have both, well, it's on the list that qualifies for "see again." There are many other factors, of course, but I think those are the main two paired with the director and editing.
In this case, during the Nazi occupation of Poland, an acting troupe becomes embroiled in a Polish soldier's efforts to track down a German spy. What follows, regardless of which version you are watching, is totally belly laugh hilarious. No special effects, no list of credits that is longer than the movie...just great writing, great acting and great direction.
If you have theaters in your town that show classics like this, occasionally consider choosing a wonderful old movie instead of one that will be around for a while. Sometimes these are fleeting opportunities--a graphic look at what excellent writing and/or acting can create in the viewer's mind. They are a delight to watch on the big screen.
The terrific thing about the Bing, is being in close proximity to Hollywood, they often have one of the actors, directors or producers of these great old gems as special guests for a talk before the movie. Now, that's showbiz!
That's not to say there weren't lots of sappy, syrupy movies made in those days. They abounded. But then there were the pearls among the oysters. Those are the ones I watch for. Another favorite is "Now Voyager" with Bette Davis. What great acting!
Okay, now it's time to venture into the 100+ heat we're having in Las Vegas.
Keep cool.
Arliss
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Writer's: Tricks of the Trade - Opening up your choices-Part I -first person or third?
Writer's: Tricks of the Trade - Opening up your choices-Part I -first person or third?
This three-part series will explore tricks writers can use to turn ho-hum manuscripts into page turners. Writers Tricks of the Trade may be found every Tuesday on the Las Vegas edition of www.examiner.com, Entertainment
This three-part series will explore tricks writers can use to turn ho-hum manuscripts into page turners. Writers Tricks of the Trade may be found every Tuesday on the Las Vegas edition of www.examiner.com, Entertainment
Saturday, July 17, 2010
WHAT'S WITH THE ADVICE COLUMNIST "ASK AMY"
Well, folks, todays post is a little different than most of mine. It's about the advice columnist, "Ask Amy," daughter of the late Ann Landers, who posted an answer to a question in her column a few weeks ago that I considered a real putdown to women over a certain age.
In a nutshell, here is what it was:
The question was: "When I was 20, guys in their late 30s were mad for me. Now that I'm in my 30s, it's the 50-year-olds. I can't wait to see who I have to fend off when I'm 40."
Her answer: "The answer to who you'll have to fend off when you're 40 is … practically no one."
I wrote to her telling her that I thought she was off base, revealed my age, that I had dated younger men before I was married and that younger guys still come on with me. Whoa! I got an answer so fast it made my head spin.
HERE IS HER E-MAIL TO ME:
I immediately fired back an answer telling her that the point of my e-mail was not to broadcast how wonderful I am, but to let her know that she probably offended lots of women who may need something to bolster their confidence, not a statement like "practically no one." I asked why she couldn't have said something like "who knows...maybe the 30 year olds." That smacks of humor. Needless to say, I didn't get an answer .
Well, it tickled me no end today (June 17, 2010) to see her column. My sister alerted me to read it saying, "I guess you weren't the only one, Sis." It was immediately obvious I wasn't the only one who rattled her cage. I'll bet the first e-mail I got from her was a form e-mail that she sent to everyone who complained, or at least a version of it. Listen up, Amy! Judging by today's column, you DID insult a lot of women, but apparently all you're able to do is trot out that same "awesome" rant you used on me.
THE ITEM IN TODAY'S ASK AMY and it wasn't from me...
Dear Amy: I was seriously offended and disappointed by your response to "Experienced." When she wrote, "When I was 20, guys in their late 30s were mad for me. Now that I'm in my 30s, it's the 50-year-olds. I can't wait to see who I have to fend off when I'm 40," you replied, "The answer to who you'll have to fend off when you're 40 is … practically no one." Experienced may be fending off 20-year-olds when she is 40 for all that you know, especially since the "cougar" is now running rampant! I found this response to be mean and inconsiderate!
— Disappointed
AMY'S ANSWER
Dear Disappointed: Scores of angry "cougars" have pounced on me for my answer to "Experienced." All of these women want to assure me that age has only made them more awesome.
Ladies, I get it. I was making a joke. I may be the only middle-age woman who finds this "cougar" nonsense embarrassing.
COME ON, AMY! Why don't you just admit that what you thought was funny wasn't very funny to the scores of women who sent you angry letters. You did insult them, plain and simple. According to your e-mail to me, you are 50. Are you not "awesome" enough for fellows in their twenties and thirties to give you admiring glances. I've seen your photo. You're a good looking woman, so are you too afraid of being labeled a "cougar" to look back? You know, you could just apologize and close the matter. IT WASN'T FUNNY.
What is embarrassing if an older woman is attracted to a younger man and vice versa? I know a very AWESOME couple who work with handicapped children and have improved the lives of thousands. After sixteen years of marriage they are still very much in love. WHOOPS. I forgot. She should be embarrassed. After all SHE IS SEVENTEEN YEARS OLDER THAN HIM. (Check out their website at http://www.valleyviewvaulters.com/
So, dear readers, that's my rant for today. Care to comment?
ARLISS
In a nutshell, here is what it was:
The question was: "When I was 20, guys in their late 30s were mad for me. Now that I'm in my 30s, it's the 50-year-olds. I can't wait to see who I have to fend off when I'm 40."
Her answer: "The answer to who you'll have to fend off when you're 40 is … practically no one."
I wrote to her telling her that I thought she was off base, revealed my age, that I had dated younger men before I was married and that younger guys still come on with me. Whoa! I got an answer so fast it made my head spin.
HERE IS HER E-MAIL TO ME:
OK. You’re still sexy. Thank you for pointing out how awesome you are. I’m 50 and doing fine, thank you very much.That really lit my fire, because if there is one thing I do, it's to look at life with a light heart. If I make statements that I think are funny but could possibly be taken in the wrong way, I also qualify that I'm kidding, so the person on the other end knows.
What I seem to have gained and you have lost with age, however, is a sense of humor.
I WAS JOKING. Amy Dickinson
I immediately fired back an answer telling her that the point of my e-mail was not to broadcast how wonderful I am, but to let her know that she probably offended lots of women who may need something to bolster their confidence, not a statement like "practically no one." I asked why she couldn't have said something like "who knows...maybe the 30 year olds." That smacks of humor. Needless to say, I didn't get an answer .
Well, it tickled me no end today (June 17, 2010) to see her column. My sister alerted me to read it saying, "I guess you weren't the only one, Sis." It was immediately obvious I wasn't the only one who rattled her cage. I'll bet the first e-mail I got from her was a form e-mail that she sent to everyone who complained, or at least a version of it. Listen up, Amy! Judging by today's column, you DID insult a lot of women, but apparently all you're able to do is trot out that same "awesome" rant you used on me.
THE ITEM IN TODAY'S ASK AMY and it wasn't from me...
Dear Amy: I was seriously offended and disappointed by your response to "Experienced." When she wrote, "When I was 20, guys in their late 30s were mad for me. Now that I'm in my 30s, it's the 50-year-olds. I can't wait to see who I have to fend off when I'm 40," you replied, "The answer to who you'll have to fend off when you're 40 is … practically no one." Experienced may be fending off 20-year-olds when she is 40 for all that you know, especially since the "cougar" is now running rampant! I found this response to be mean and inconsiderate!
— Disappointed
AMY'S ANSWER
Dear Disappointed: Scores of angry "cougars" have pounced on me for my answer to "Experienced." All of these women want to assure me that age has only made them more awesome.
Ladies, I get it. I was making a joke. I may be the only middle-age woman who finds this "cougar" nonsense embarrassing.
<<<>>>
COME ON, AMY! Why don't you just admit that what you thought was funny wasn't very funny to the scores of women who sent you angry letters. You did insult them, plain and simple. According to your e-mail to me, you are 50. Are you not "awesome" enough for fellows in their twenties and thirties to give you admiring glances. I've seen your photo. You're a good looking woman, so are you too afraid of being labeled a "cougar" to look back? You know, you could just apologize and close the matter. IT WASN'T FUNNY.
What is embarrassing if an older woman is attracted to a younger man and vice versa? I know a very AWESOME couple who work with handicapped children and have improved the lives of thousands. After sixteen years of marriage they are still very much in love. WHOOPS. I forgot. She should be embarrassed. After all SHE IS SEVENTEEN YEARS OLDER THAN HIM. (Check out their website at http://www.valleyviewvaulters.com/
So, dear readers, that's my rant for today. Care to comment?
ARLISS
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
A NEW TRAILER FOR DEVIL'S DANCE
Last night a trailer for my new book, Devil's Dance, was posted on You Tube. The first one in a set of two, this book will be released in all formats in August. The story continues in The Devil's Due, to be released in September. Thanks to all the friends and family who encouraged me during the fifteen years it took for this to become reality.http://bit.ly/devilsdance
Saturday, July 10, 2010
THE TIME IS DRAWING CLOSER
The first book in the Twist of Fate series, Devil's Dance, will be released sometime next month. Got the cover from my publisher yesterday, and now it's on their website and my new www.arlissadams-author.com site as well. August release...whoo hoo! That will be followed by The Devil's Due in September. Not bad for books that were fifteen years in the making!
They always say once the book is in print, the real work begins. With our changing publication world, it should say even before the book is in print, e-book, Kindle, CD and MP3 the work begins. My books are will be available in all formats. As someone who listens to audio books all the time, I can't wait to hear my own and also to hold the print copies in my hand. I was up until almost four in the morning tweaking the new website, checking things, figuring out strategies and more.
I guess the sight of the covers really did energize me. I'll really be out there publicizing these books, but I'm also busy working on a new book. Not even in this series. Or maybe it will be. Who knows? I guess I'm rambling, which is much different than when I "write tight" for my manuscripts. I'm working on the new one with a co-author.
Visit my new website, or visit www.lldreamspell.com . I guessing the release will also be announced soon at www.booksinmotion.com for the audio versions. More later. Gotta run now. Promote...promote...promote.
ARLISS ADAMS
Feelin' good
They always say once the book is in print, the real work begins. With our changing publication world, it should say even before the book is in print, e-book, Kindle, CD and MP3 the work begins. My books are will be available in all formats. As someone who listens to audio books all the time, I can't wait to hear my own and also to hold the print copies in my hand. I was up until almost four in the morning tweaking the new website, checking things, figuring out strategies and more.
I guess the sight of the covers really did energize me. I'll really be out there publicizing these books, but I'm also busy working on a new book. Not even in this series. Or maybe it will be. Who knows? I guess I'm rambling, which is much different than when I "write tight" for my manuscripts. I'm working on the new one with a co-author.
Visit my new website, or visit www.lldreamspell.com . I guessing the release will also be announced soon at www.booksinmotion.com for the audio versions. More later. Gotta run now. Promote...promote...promote.
ARLISS ADAMS
Feelin' good
Friday, July 9, 2010
THE TIME IS DRAWING NEAR!
Finally...the first book in my new TWIST OF FATE series, now named DEVIL'S DANCE will be released sometime in August in all formats: trade paperback, Kindle, e-book, CD and MP3. It's really getting exciting. L&L Dreamspell and Books in Motion, Inc. will coordinate so that all the releases are around the same time.
This seems to be a comment on perserverence and patience. It's now about 15 years since I started writing this and the next book in the series, THE DEVIL'S DUE to be released in September. I never gave up, even after rewriting it seven times. At last it was what I hoped it would be.
Here is the FIRST PRE-PUBLICATION REVIEW from J.D. Webb. Look for more in the coming weeks.
Review Date: 7/15/10 Reviewer: J.D. Webb
Be prepared to run the gamut of your emotions. Devil’s Dance will break your heart, patch it up, deflate it again and finally make it whole. The story is of betrayal, sexual abuse, abandonment and a superhuman effort to overcome all obstacles. Aspiring dancer Jenny Connor endures excruciating pain and suffering and yet somehow triumphs.
Her struggles are revealed page after page until she finally meets someone she can trust. A mentor puts her life back together only to have it ripped apart once more. In a desperate bid for freedom, Jenny winds up in Los Angeles and, at the lowest point of her life, finds true love. She puts all her energy into her passion for dance and her new love.
However Jenny’s bliss is not to last. A final tragedy strikes home and again depression imprisons her. When she emerges whole again, her inner strength shines. She returns to dance and family for purpose and comfort.
My suggestion is to find a comfy place, with plenty of munchies and two giant boxes of Kleenex. You’ll not want to put this book down until you reach the end, savoring that last bite of chocolate. Afterward don’t be sad that the story is over. Jenny’s life continues in The Devil’s Due. Watch for it and remember to be prepared.
This seems to be a comment on perserverence and patience. It's now about 15 years since I started writing this and the next book in the series, THE DEVIL'S DUE to be released in September. I never gave up, even after rewriting it seven times. At last it was what I hoped it would be.
Here is the FIRST PRE-PUBLICATION REVIEW from J.D. Webb. Look for more in the coming weeks.
Review Date: 7/15/10 Reviewer: J.D. Webb
Be prepared to run the gamut of your emotions. Devil’s Dance will break your heart, patch it up, deflate it again and finally make it whole. The story is of betrayal, sexual abuse, abandonment and a superhuman effort to overcome all obstacles. Aspiring dancer Jenny Connor endures excruciating pain and suffering and yet somehow triumphs.
Her struggles are revealed page after page until she finally meets someone she can trust. A mentor puts her life back together only to have it ripped apart once more. In a desperate bid for freedom, Jenny winds up in Los Angeles and, at the lowest point of her life, finds true love. She puts all her energy into her passion for dance and her new love.
However Jenny’s bliss is not to last. A final tragedy strikes home and again depression imprisons her. When she emerges whole again, her inner strength shines. She returns to dance and family for purpose and comfort.
My suggestion is to find a comfy place, with plenty of munchies and two giant boxes of Kleenex. You’ll not want to put this book down until you reach the end, savoring that last bite of chocolate. Afterward don’t be sad that the story is over. Jenny’s life continues in The Devil’s Due. Watch for it and remember to be prepared.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
FINALLY BACK ON TRACK
What is a writer's worst nightmare? Writers block? Rejection slips? Well for me it's having a laptop crash, Outlook go crazy and AOL dump saved messages...never to be seen again...all in one week. That is the time you want to scream. I did, but no one heard me. Fortunately I was alone, because the words I uttered weren't warm and syrupy. I would have done a sailor proud.
After spending a bit of time licking my wounds, I hustled over to Best Buy, where my salesman Jaime was wonderful. He walked me through my various options and we selected the best laptop for my needs. Then came the tedious job of resurrecting all of the files from (whew...thank goodness) my external hard drive. I also learned that Windows 7 Home Premium, while much better than Vista, doesn't support several things. To do that you have to upgrade to Windows 7 Professional providing a little more ka-ching for Microsoft.
If you find yourself in that position, don't buy the actual upgrade if you are only upgrading one computer. It is $199. You can buy a download key for $89 saving more than 50%. Better in your pocket than Microsoft's. Of course you don't get a CD, only a nice piece of cardboard with the number, but who cares? It works. Know what it does? It let's you run some programs and support on XP. Yep. Back to what we had before, but we had to pay Microsoft to get it.
Okay, after a week of fiddling, swearing, transferring, learning and more, I'm finally back on track. Devil's Dance and The Devil's Due are being typeset for the galleys and I'm a happy camper. I actually have the time to write again, and am getting on with "Welcome to Paradise," a government fiasco embezzlement romp being co-authored with Meredith Holland.
By the way, I forgot to mention that the laptop that crashed was my "ailing from the day I got it" HP. The first time it crashed it was only 13 months old and it devoured it's motherboard. Fortunately I had a 3 year replacement warranty. I thought it would be replaced after three crashes. That's what the salesman told me, but no...it had to crash a fourth time for the replacement to kick in.
I bought an ACER as a backup, because there was no way I could trust the HP not to crash again. How right I was. During the next year and a half, it ate two more motherboards and a hard drive. Now all I needed was for it to crash again before May. Can you see me dancing around chanting, "Crash...Crash!"
It accommodated me, I now have a new Dell, courtest of the warranty and some additionatl money, and will never buy HP products again. Within this 2 1/2 year period I buried this laptop and two relatively new HP printers. My complaints to HP fell on deaf ears, so "Sayonara, Baby." You won't be seeing any of my dollars again.
That's all for now--
Arliss
After spending a bit of time licking my wounds, I hustled over to Best Buy, where my salesman Jaime was wonderful. He walked me through my various options and we selected the best laptop for my needs. Then came the tedious job of resurrecting all of the files from (whew...thank goodness) my external hard drive. I also learned that Windows 7 Home Premium, while much better than Vista, doesn't support several things. To do that you have to upgrade to Windows 7 Professional providing a little more ka-ching for Microsoft.
If you find yourself in that position, don't buy the actual upgrade if you are only upgrading one computer. It is $199. You can buy a download key for $89 saving more than 50%. Better in your pocket than Microsoft's. Of course you don't get a CD, only a nice piece of cardboard with the number, but who cares? It works. Know what it does? It let's you run some programs and support on XP. Yep. Back to what we had before, but we had to pay Microsoft to get it.
Okay, after a week of fiddling, swearing, transferring, learning and more, I'm finally back on track. Devil's Dance and The Devil's Due are being typeset for the galleys and I'm a happy camper. I actually have the time to write again, and am getting on with "Welcome to Paradise," a government fiasco embezzlement romp being co-authored with Meredith Holland.
By the way, I forgot to mention that the laptop that crashed was my "ailing from the day I got it" HP. The first time it crashed it was only 13 months old and it devoured it's motherboard. Fortunately I had a 3 year replacement warranty. I thought it would be replaced after three crashes. That's what the salesman told me, but no...it had to crash a fourth time for the replacement to kick in.
I bought an ACER as a backup, because there was no way I could trust the HP not to crash again. How right I was. During the next year and a half, it ate two more motherboards and a hard drive. Now all I needed was for it to crash again before May. Can you see me dancing around chanting, "Crash...Crash!"
It accommodated me, I now have a new Dell, courtest of the warranty and some additionatl money, and will never buy HP products again. Within this 2 1/2 year period I buried this laptop and two relatively new HP printers. My complaints to HP fell on deaf ears, so "Sayonara, Baby." You won't be seeing any of my dollars again.
That's all for now--
Arliss
Thursday, February 4, 2010
AT LAST!
It has been so many years in the making, it's hard to believe that soon I will be holding my two books in my hands. Yesterday I received the pre-proof galley for DEVIL'S DANCE and today for THE DEVIL'S DUE. As soon as I read through them and return them to the publisher, we'll have advanced one more step up the ladder.
This is a short post because I've got to get to my reading of the galleys. The longer I delay, the longer it will take to go to print.
This may sound a little egotistic, but whenever I'm at this point in a book, I try to read objectively, as though I'm not the author and have no knowledge of the story. Devil's Dance is holding up very well. I find myself wanting to keep reading even though I know the story backwards and forwards...maybe even sideways after all these years. My style has changed so much since the first attempt, and yet some elements remain the same.
ARLISS
This is a short post because I've got to get to my reading of the galleys. The longer I delay, the longer it will take to go to print.
This may sound a little egotistic, but whenever I'm at this point in a book, I try to read objectively, as though I'm not the author and have no knowledge of the story. Devil's Dance is holding up very well. I find myself wanting to keep reading even though I know the story backwards and forwards...maybe even sideways after all these years. My style has changed so much since the first attempt, and yet some elements remain the same.
ARLISS
Friday, January 15, 2010
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
I THINK I WAS BITTEN BY A TIME VAMPIRE!
For the past few weeks I wake up sure that I'm going to finish everything on my "to do" list. So why do I have most of the same things on my list the following day?
It seems like the internet just sucks the life out of you. You sit down to do a few things and the next thing you know, hours have passed. It's not like they're frivolous things, either. Maybe it's that I just have too much on my plate these days. I guess I'll have to learn to say a simple "no" or "I'm sorry, I can't" once in a while.
That's hard for me because I'm one of those people who think I can do everything. I've been like that my whole life.
Anyway, enough bitching. This week DEVIL'S DANCE and THE DEVIL'S DUE took another step toward the time when they will be published. The paperback/e-book/Kindle editions are at the point where the publisher is ready to set up the galleys. Of course, those must be reviewed and the cover designed, but it's one more step. The audio publisher is getting ready to record.
The moment I love is holding the newly published book in my hand and then listening to the audio book and seeing how the narrator brought the characters that were once only in my imagination to life. Hmmm. Time to start the PR and to book some advance launch signings.
Preparatory to that, here are the back-cover type blurbs for both books:
DEVIL'S DANCE
By Arliss Adams
How much physical and mental pain can a sixteen-year-old girl stand? Jeanette Connor is about to find out.
It's Chicago, 1955, and she is on the brink of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: a contract with the New York City Ballet. However, since she’s a minor, her mother must co-sign and she has different ideas. Jeanette's dream is smashed and instead she soon finds herself in a high-class brothel, being offered up as a little-girl-virgin type. Then a client beats her to within an inch of her life, and she's left for dead in the snowy night.
She vows revenge, but first has to put her broken body and shattered emotions back together. That's easier said than done, though. Her struggle to regain her life carries her to California, the land of dreams, which for Jeanette Connor will become the land of nightmares.
THE DEVIL'S DUE
By Arliss Adams
As a teenager and young adult, Jen Connor has withstood violent rape, a near-fatal illness, the loss of a husband, and the smashing of all her dreams. But that was only the beginning.
Now, at thirty, she faces a new set of challenges. As she returns to Los Angeles, the site of many of her nightmarish experiences, from her new home in Seattle, she knows what awaits her: powerful, vindictive former in-laws who are determined to reclaim Jen's son at all costs. But what she doesn't know is an evil figure from her past now calls LA home.
Her only allies are a Russian ballet instructor with shadowy contacts, an acid-tongued critic, the new man in her life, and her long-lost sister. Together they stand against Jen's adversaries, but will they be enough?
It seems like the internet just sucks the life out of you. You sit down to do a few things and the next thing you know, hours have passed. It's not like they're frivolous things, either. Maybe it's that I just have too much on my plate these days. I guess I'll have to learn to say a simple "no" or "I'm sorry, I can't" once in a while.
That's hard for me because I'm one of those people who think I can do everything. I've been like that my whole life.
Anyway, enough bitching. This week DEVIL'S DANCE and THE DEVIL'S DUE took another step toward the time when they will be published. The paperback/e-book/Kindle editions are at the point where the publisher is ready to set up the galleys. Of course, those must be reviewed and the cover designed, but it's one more step. The audio publisher is getting ready to record.
The moment I love is holding the newly published book in my hand and then listening to the audio book and seeing how the narrator brought the characters that were once only in my imagination to life. Hmmm. Time to start the PR and to book some advance launch signings.
Preparatory to that, here are the back-cover type blurbs for both books:
DEVIL'S DANCE
By Arliss Adams
How much physical and mental pain can a sixteen-year-old girl stand? Jeanette Connor is about to find out.
It's Chicago, 1955, and she is on the brink of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: a contract with the New York City Ballet. However, since she’s a minor, her mother must co-sign and she has different ideas. Jeanette's dream is smashed and instead she soon finds herself in a high-class brothel, being offered up as a little-girl-virgin type. Then a client beats her to within an inch of her life, and she's left for dead in the snowy night.
She vows revenge, but first has to put her broken body and shattered emotions back together. That's easier said than done, though. Her struggle to regain her life carries her to California, the land of dreams, which for Jeanette Connor will become the land of nightmares.
THE DEVIL'S DUE
By Arliss Adams
As a teenager and young adult, Jen Connor has withstood violent rape, a near-fatal illness, the loss of a husband, and the smashing of all her dreams. But that was only the beginning.
Now, at thirty, she faces a new set of challenges. As she returns to Los Angeles, the site of many of her nightmarish experiences, from her new home in Seattle, she knows what awaits her: powerful, vindictive former in-laws who are determined to reclaim Jen's son at all costs. But what she doesn't know is an evil figure from her past now calls LA home.
Her only allies are a Russian ballet instructor with shadowy contacts, an acid-tongued critic, the new man in her life, and her long-lost sister. Together they stand against Jen's adversaries, but will they be enough?
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