A Legitimate Author

Three things happened this weekend. (Well, a lot more happened than that, but three writing related things.)

First, I got a royalty check from my publisher! My first one, believe it or not. It was for less than $10. (I took a picture of the check, but I'm not going to post that online.)

Second, I went to a book signing, had a ton of fun, and didn't sell a single book.

Third, I got a dreadful two-star review on Amazon.

Surprisingly, these three things lifted my spirits instead of bringing me down. I guess they made me feel like an honest-to-goodness legitimate author. Weird how that works.

Anyway, book news!

Spirits Bright, a collection of four inspirational sci-fi Christmas stories is coming soon!

I will be down in Kanab, UT on the 24-25 of this month presenting at the Kanab Writers Conference. It's beautiful down there, and they have some great classes lined up. If you're anywhere nearby, check it out!

In Print!

E-books are marvelous, but there's nothing like having a print copy of your own book to hold in your hands.

All my books in print!

Last year at this time, only Stolen Christmas was in print! Wow. What a great year.

And guess what? There will be more coming next year! Woohhoo!

I spent some time remodeling my website yesterday. Stop by and let me know what you think.

So, what were you're biggest achievements this year?

Book Signing Fun!

I had a great time at my book signing last Saturday. I took along my "marketing team" to keep my company and pass out bookmarks and such. Several friends I don't usually get to see stopped by to say hi, and I even sold some books. (Bonus!)

Me at the table. I loved having such a selection of books!

With Donna and Shallee. Thanks for coming, gals!

Paige and her sister Lesa.

The marketing team just chillin'.

 
It was a good experience. My next signing is Saturday, December 15th from 12-4pm at EBorn books in the Provo Towne Center Mall. I'm looking forward to it.

Author Extravaganza!

Five authors, three bookstores, two days!

Don't miss the fun this weekend if you live along the Wasatch Front. Authors Fay Klingler, Karen E. Hoover, Tristi Pinkston, Heather B. Moore, and I are hosting an author extravaganza at three different bookstores this Friday and Saturday.

There will be great books, candy and prizes, so come on down if you get the chance!

August 24:
Pioneer Books
858 S. State St.
Orem, UT
10-11:30am

(Me, Fay, Karen, and Tristi)

Weller Book Works
607 Trolley Square
Salt Lake City, UT
1:30-3:30pm
(Me, Fay, Karen, and Heather) 

August 25:
The Book Table
29 S. Main St.
Logan, UT
10am-12pm

  (Me, Fay and Karen)

Some Things I Like

My table at Costco

No doubt about it. These Costco signings are kind of rough, at least time-wise. I miss being with my family. But there a lot of things I have really enjoyed about it, too. I felt so nervous about talking to strangers, but it has actually been fun. Especially when I get to talk about my book. =) I love when people smile and say thank you when I hand them a bookmark. It makes me chuckle inside when they ask, "Are you the author?" No, I'm just standing here selling this book for fun... I love the way people's eyes light up when I say, "It's an LDS science fiction adventure novel." And they answer, "Really? That sounds cool!" Then I blow a virtual raspberry at everyone who told me there was no market for that. Teehee. I also love, love, love people watching, so I never feel bored during the slow times. There's always someone interesting to observe. Overall, it's been a good experience. I'm glad, because I have a lot more of the Costco signings coming up!

Another thing I like--my son told me a friend of his is using my book for his Honor's English book project. That made me happy. I think I've always had a secret dream of being someone's book project. Hooray for silly dreams come true!

So, what are you doing this week to make your dreams come true?

And So It Begins...

Tomorrow begins my Costco book signing adventure! Here's my schedule:

Lehi Store:
May 9th  4-8pm                   
May 10th 4-8pm  
May 15th 4-8pm   
May 16th 4-8pm 
May 22nd 4-8pm
May 26th 10-6pm 
May 30th 12-4pm 
May 31st 12-4pm


Salt Lake Store:
May 17th 4-8pm
May 19th 12-4pm 
May 24th 4-8pm  
May 29th 12-4pm

So, if you live nearby, please stop by and say hello. I'd love to see you! I have to admit this is another one of those things that is way outside of my comfort zone! I'm a little bit terrified. So, cross your fingers for me.

Have you done something to exit your comfort zone? How'd it go?