Cover Story: Tranquil Moment LLC Writing Event

The October Edition of From A Writer's POV was published today. Our Cover Story is on Jahzara. She is producing an event for writers. We did an interview with her last mont to introduce the event. Read about the event below and sign up of you think this event is for you.

So you want to write. You love to write. Just not sure how to go about doing it. Tranquil Moments LLC wants to help you get started. May we suggest you begin your writing journey by contributing to one our anthologies.

Tranquil Moments LLC
is currently seeking essay submissions for the following anthologies:
"IT'S A LOVE THANG"
"CRAZY FAITH"
"DADS WHO ARE HOLDING IT DOWN .
*The top twelve entries will be published.

Submission Guidelines:

*Submissions should be typed and double spaced in Times New Roman font #12
*saved in a Microsoft Word Document.
*MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL. EMAIL SUBMISSIONS TO: http://us.mc1123.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=tranquilmomentspublishing@yahoo.com

*Deadline: OCTOBER 30, 2009

*Word Count: 1500-2,000 words
*You must be the original author of the work."IT'S A LOVE THANG" REQUIREMENTS: This anthology is for married people. After the stroll down the aisle, exchange of rings, and the honeymoon is over that's when the real work begins. No matter how long you've been married, share how you met your spouse and tell how love has been the glue that has kept the marriage together."CRAZY FAITH" REQUIREMENTS: This anthology is focused on faith. Authors should focus on situations where they have had to exercise their faith muscles and take them to the next level.
"DADS WHO ARE HOLDING IT DOWN" REQUIREMENTS: This anthology is to highlight men who are owning up to their responsibilities as fathers. Tranquil Moments LLC wants to publish your story. Include a cover page with your name, address, email, and telephone number

Nicole Bradley, Publisher

Other Info:
Individuals who may need more details are encouraged to contact publisher, Nicole Bradley at http://us.mc1123.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=tranquilmomentspublishing@yahoo.com. Learn more about this dynamic author and publisher at http://www.nicolebradley.com/, http://www.jahzarawrites.com/. Her latest book Never Would Have Made It: A Testimony of What God Has Done In My Life is an anthology. Please visit http://neverwouldhavemadeit.4t.com/ to learn more. Tranquil Moments LLC looks forward to welcoming you to our literary family.

Before we end today's blog...

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Signing Off,

Dominique Watson

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Guest Speaker Quiniece Sheppard: Publishing

Today we have a guest speaker. Quiniece Sheppard. Quiniece is speaking about publishing and getting published. This is a great interview; great advice on the topic opf publishing. Read the interview below.

Dominique Watson (DW): What is your advice on getting started in publishing?
Quiniece Sheppard (QP): My advice on getting started in publishing is that you must first do the research on several self-publishing companies and find out which one best fits your needs. You also need to know what the royalty rates are, book distribution, meaning where your book will be available and you must set a financial budget. Know how much money you are willing to spend on editing the book and the actual publication of it as if you don't, you will be unprepared financially to take on such a huge task. Research, research, research is key.
DW: What are the different types of publishing?
QP: Different types of publishing are self-publishing, meaning you publish the book yourself or you have an agent who will find a major publisher for you. Also, you can publish poems, novels, books, cookbooks, almost anything can be published but not all publishers will accept everything. It must have substance and content and be worthwhile. A lot of self-publishers reject work because they fill it does not meet certain standards that they may have. It doesn't mean that your manuscript is not good, it may be it doesn't meet their guidelines. Do not give up if you are rejected. If you feel like you have a masterpiece, then someone will publish it. Make sure it is edited first before you submit your manuscript.
DW: Why do you think some writers decide to publish? Why do you think some decide not to?
QP: We decide to publish simply because we want others to read what we have to say. We have spent so much time and energy in writing our masterpiece, that we are proud of what we have done and want other people to read it and enjoy what we have writeen. Most of us don't write for ourselves, but for other people. Also, we publish because it gives us the ability to call ourselves authors. We want to see our names on our work and we want others to see it as well. We have worked hard on the masterpiece, so we deserve the title. Only those who publish can say that they are an author and it takes time, discipline, passion, drive and hard work to be called an author and that is complimentary. It's a great achievement. Some people decide not to publish for financial reasons. They simply can't afford to publish a book. Some may decide not to publish because they really don't want anyone else reading it. In other words, what they have written was therapetutic in that it helped them to get things off of their chest. It allows them to release things inside them that they are afraid to openly talk about, so they feel better and more comfortable in writing it down. In that way, they have gotten their thoughts, feelings, frustrations, anger, etc. off their chest without the worry of anyone else reading it.
DW: Is it important to consider finances when publishing? Why or why not?
QP: It is Absolutely important to consider finances before you publish. It is very important that you set a budget for yourself when you begin your publishing experience as you will be overwhelmed and stretched beyond your financial limitations. Be prepared to invest in yourself and know how much you are willing to invest in your project. For example, I am a new author. I spent about $1200.00 on my first book, including the editing. I found that you can save money by not using the publisher's editing team, but find you own editor. Also, I saved money on marketing and I currently market my own book. Yes, it is a little more challenging, but it saves you money that you really don't have. I had no idea how much publishing a book costs and I learned everything by trial and error. Now I know what to do and what to look for, my second book experience will be better than the first because I am a little more experienced. I have to say that withself-publishing companies, beware of those that you don't have to pay anything for the book. That means that you will get little or no royalties because they assume all the financial responsibility. People choose this option when they don't have the money for the book and the basic goal is just to put the book out. So, if all you want to do is just get it published, then companies like PublishAmerica will work for you because they don't require any money up front. On the other hand, if you want your book to be a success, then you have to put more money into it. You will get out exactly what you put in. It's all about what you are looking to get out of your publishing experience.
DW: What has been your personal experience in publishing?
QP: My first personal experience in publishing has been fairly good. I had a great publishing company who talked me through the whole publishing process. They understood what I wanted and they did everything to meet my needs. The most valuable lesson I learned is choose your editor wisely. I choose an editor who wasn't as great as she said she was and my finished product had a lot of errors in it. Even after the editor edits the work, you have to go back over it yourself to make sure it is correct or have someone else do it and that is the part I failed to do. I relied on her expertise so much that I didn't give the final manuscript a second look and in turn, had errors throughout my finished book.

My main advice is know your audience. In other words, who are you writing for. Another tip is know what type of book you are writing such as fiction and non-fiction or christian non-fiction. Also, set a financial budget, write down some marketing tips on how you can expose yourself and lastly get on social networking sites. They are very helpful and insightful and you learn so much from others who have experience in the writing process. Besides, social networking is a free tool that a lot of people use to market their books. I personally use this free service as it costs nothing to send an email. Some sites though are a waste of time and energy, so research to see which ones would be beneficial to you.

Getting info on Publishing is very important. You're never too experienced to know all there is to know about publishing. Be sure to do your research and take your time getting thr job done.

Before we end today's blog...
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Signing Off,
Dominique Watson

The Writer's Lounge

Today we are annoucing our winner of this weeks theme on The Writer's Lounge. Unfortunately we only had one submission. The submission was by: JulieCJ called "He Loves her...He Loves her not"

Read her story here and leave a comment

Brooke Peterson hurried down the dim hallway. Suddenly, she stopped dead inher tracks. Disbelief coursed through her. Quickly, she darted into an empty room. Leaning against the door, several deep breaths quieted her pounding heart. Squaring her shoulders and with head held high, she stepped back into the hall.
They were gone.
Had she actually seen them?
Had they seen her?
She’d seen her husband, Darren, kissing . . . no, devouring . . . Leslie, a recent hire in accounting. Theirs was no innocent kiss. Brooke stared at the spot where they had been. In her mind, she drifted back . ..
Darren had exploded into her life five years ago. Fresh from college, he was smart, charming– and rich - what every woman wanted. He’d fallen hard for the tall, beautiful Brooke, a co-worker, and part-time model. He knew he would marry only her. He courted her relentlessly, sweeping her off her feet. It was 'happily-ever-after.'
A year later, they married. Married life was wonderful and exciting. What more could a girl want?
“Indeed!” Brooke snorted.
In the present again, Brooke remembered she had come here to find the boxes of baseball caps for the salespeople at the trade show.
Later, at her desk, Brooke remembered.
“Wife,” Darren had said this morning, “You are perfection. Change nothing, and never change.” He nuzzled her neck, knowing exactly where and how to do it.
Brooke had melted.
“Stop!” she nearly shouted as she tossed her thick, chestnut mane. Brooke looked around the office quickly but apparently,no one had noticed.
Unbidden thoughts flooded Brooke’s mind. How long has this been going on? Were there other women? The worst-case thoughts tortured her.
Angry now, Brooke headed for Leslie’s desk.
“How long?” she demanded of the blonde beauty.
“Excuse me?”
“How long have you and Darren been lovers?”
Thecolor drained from Leslie’s face. Her voice shaky, she stammered, “I-I d-don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“Liar!” Brooke hissed, blue eyes flashing. “I saw you with him, near the utility room.”
Leslie sighed. “I told him we’d get caught.” She sobbed softly into her hands.
Brooke turned on her heel, heading now for the elevator. Angrily, she punched the button. Not waiting, she took the stairs.
In the executive suite, Brooke headed for Darren’s office, dodging Maggie, his secretary
“Brooke, he’s . .. ”
“Oh, he’ll see me!” The tone of Brooke’s voice stopped Maggie mid-sentence.
Brooke burst into Darren’s office, stopping abruptly. Darren stood there, smiling, arms outstretched, inviting her to be comforted.
His eyes told her he knew. Damn! Leslie had warned him.
Her pain cried out, “Why?”
He shrugged. “Stupid, I guess.” He moved towards her.
Wanting him, she crossed the office quickly, falling into his familiar, strong arms.
Darren murmured,“Never again, my sweet. Never again.”
Tears coursed on Brooke’s face – somehow, she knew he would cheat again.
But, she loved him. . .

Before we end today's blog...
Today registration opens for our Free Online Coureses. Sign up today! http://www.povonlinewritingcourses.webs.com/
Signing Off,
Dominique Watson

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Question of the Week

Yesterday we hada guest speaker, so today I want to know, "How did you get started in writing?"

Post your comment below and tune in next Wednesday for a new question.

Signing Off,
Dominique Watson

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Guest Speaker Nicole Rouse; Getting Published/Writing

Today we have a guest speaker. Nicole Rouse will be speaking with us about how to get published and also giving a few writing tips. She is a published author and wants to share her tips with us. Read her interview below.

Dominique Watson (DW): Thank you so much for doing the interview. Explain how someone can get started in writing.
Nicole Rouse (NR): Get into the habit of writing everyday! Designate a place and time where you can write without too many distractions. Depending on your circumstances, the place and time may vary from day to day, but nevertheless, you should make sure that you write something everyday. Whether you’re jotting down book ideas, writing a chapter of a book, or writing about your day, record something in a journal. Even if you feel that there isn’t much to write about, encourage yourself to write a few sentences. It is not uncommon for a writer to experience what many call “writer’s block.” However, you don’t want to get stuck there. Daily writing practices will keep you focused on your goals. You may be surprised at what you produce. One short paragraph could turn into the first chapter of a best-selling novel! Once you have established a routine and developed a discipline for writing, you’ll be in a great position to move forward and work toward getting your book published.
DW: As a writer, what are some tips you have for those looking to get published? What about first time publishers?
NR: Once you have an idea or story in mind, the next step is finding a publishing company that would be interested in your work. The Writer’s Market is an excellent source for aspiring, new and established writers. This great reference book contains a wealth of knowledge. Not only are there numerous publishing houses to discover, there are also samples query letters and book proposals.
Before identifying a publishing company, you’ll need to decide which genre(s) to target. More than one genre may apply to your book, but it is important that each genre is indicative of what your book is about. You do not want to contact a publishing company that only deals with romance novels if your book is about science fiction. Only submit query letters and sample chapters to publishing companies that are interested in your targeted genre(s).
DW: What do you suggest those in the beginning stages of writing do to enhance their knowledge of the field?
NR: Immerse yourself into the literary world as much as you can. Create a plan or set short and long term goals that include participating in numerous literary events. Attend seminars and conferences that pertain to writing and publishing. Take classes that will both strengthen and challenge your talent. Participate in writing workshops, stroll through book festivals, and look for organizations where you could volunteer and gain more experience. Join a writing group, team up with a writing partner, and/or find a mentor. Not only will the knowledge you share be beneficial, you will gain the support and encouragement from people who understand the writing process.
DW: What are some common mistakes writers make in the beginning?
NR: Adhere to submission guidelines! Each publishing company has a set of guidelines that writers must follow when submitting material. Not all publishing companies require the same information. Ignoring their requirements may cost you the chance to receive a contract. Be sure that you have carefully read all of the guidelines and have all of the required materials before sending your work.
Edit! Edit! Edit! Before submitting your material to a publishing company, take time to review and edit your work. In addition, have a friend and a professional editor look at your work as well. Once your review is complete, I strongly recommend that you have an editor do a content and grammar review as well. Although many pushing companies have editors on staff, you want the material you submitted to be a representation of the kind of quality work you can produce. Publishers are aware that mistakes happen, but to reduce the number found in your book, solicit the help of qualified editors to help you.
Create a plan to market and promote your book. There is more to being a writer than just writing books. Writers wear many hats. To ensure that your book succeeds, you must learn how to effectively market your product. Publishing companies will promote your book, but you will be responsible for the bulk of promotions. Scheduling book signings and interviews, as well as designing bookmarks and postcards are largely your responsibility. Writing is a business, and you should surround yourself with a team of positive people that can help you run a smooth business.
Never give up! No matter how many rejection letters you receive, or how many doors seem to close when you’re looking for a publishing company, do not allow yourself to become discouraged. Continue to write, attend book festivals, and conferences. You never know when your moment will arrive.
Your desire and passion for writing can take you places you never imagined. For many authors, writing is refreshing, relaxing, and exciting. Writing can also be time consuming and challenging. But the wave of emotions an author experiences is well worth the ride if there is a passion and genuine love for the craft.

Before we end today's blog...
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Signing Off,
Dominique Watson

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Weekly Services List

View this weeks service list

1. Robert Medak Freelance Writing & Editing
http://www.stormywriter.com/

2. The Strategy Roomhttp://www.thestrategyroominc.com/Business Consulting, Contract Negotiation & Drafting and Copyright and Trademark Registration services for Arts & Entertainment Industry Professionals.

3. TargetStars, Inc.http://www.targetstars.com/We provide marketing and virtual assistant services such as research, proofreading and editing, blogging, etc. to small companies and solopreneurs.

Tune in next Monday for a new list. Join our ning network to get your business on this list.

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Let From A Writers help you further your writing career: Author & Publisher's

I wanted to let everyone know that I am putting together two lists in order to help authors and publisher's find what they need to either be published or get authors to publish through them. I started this list because our network has tons of publisher's who are basically "sitting there" not networking. I don't know if it's because some of them are a little shy and don't know how to network or simply haven't been on my network enough to see what's really going on. But I know there are a lot of authors who are looking to get publsihed and want there work on shelves.
So I'm looking for authors who have a completed or almost completed manuscript who is looking for a publisher. I want to help them find the publisher they need. I want to get them with the publisher that has everything they are looking for to bring their book to life.
Some people truly don't know the first step in publishing or how to go about it. Even after reading my blogs, they still don't know. So if you are looking to get your book published, let me help you.
First, join my network http://www.fromawriterspov.ning.com/ and look in the forums for our two lists. Then post your info and let me help you.
This is for publisher's as well. Find our list and post your info. Let From A Writers POV get you the authors you are looking for.
Before we end today's blog...
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Signing Off,
Dominique Watson

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