Monday, December 31, 2012

Character Interview: Michael Mitchell


Name: Michael Mitchell

Significant Other: I've been interested in Laura for a while...

What is your strongest belief? Patience is needed.

How do you like to spend your time? Playing sports with Leelee is one of my favorite things.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? Russia would be an amazing experience.

What is your favorite food? Pizza is awesome.

Describe yourself in one word: Easygoing.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? Just about anything, really.

Is Ella a good sister? Usually.

Do you ever purposely annoy her? I used to. That's a brother's job, you know.

Are you scared of spiders? Only when they surprise me in the middle of the night.

What's the best thing that's ever happened to you? Getting two wonderful sisters who don't loathe spending time with me.

What's your favorite sport? Basketball or baseball.

Do you believe in magic? Magic, no. Miracles, yes.

Michael, Leelee, Laura, and
 Ella can be found in the novel, Forgotten Memories.



Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!


Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help. 

Monday, December 24, 2012

Character Interview: Margaret Blake


Name: Margaret Blake

Significant Other: Nicholas Jensen

What is your strongest belief? Life is full of goodness.

How do you like to spend your time? Dancing...I can't think of anything better.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? I would love a contract to dance at a major theater...so that would mean moving to a larger city.

What is your favorite food? Milkshakes...I get the sweet tooth from my dad.

Describe yourself in one word: Sweet?

What type of music could you listen to for hours? Classical piano.

What really annoys you? I can't think of anything...

Have you ever dreamed of a butterfly fighting a dragon? No...but that's something I would love to see!

Do you enjoy cooking? Sometimes. It really depends on what I'm cooking and who I'm cooking with.

Favorite past time? Spending time with Nicholas, Ella, and Joe.
Margaret, Nicholas, Ella, and Joe can be found in the novel, Forgotten Memories.




Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!


Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help. 

Monday, December 17, 2012

Character Interview: Nicholas Jensen


Name: Nicholas Jensen

Significant Other: Margaret Blake

What is your strongest belief? There is a reason for everything.

How do you like to spend your time? Tinkering with cars.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? The big city seems like a great place to live.

What is your favorite food? French fries.

Describe yourself in one word: Content.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? He'll never tell, but Michael is magical with a guitar.

Do you ever run around in the rain?
Not really. Margaret does though, and it's the sweetest.

Do you like to dance? Depends on the partner, but usually, yes.

Have you ever had green tea? I don't think so.
Nicholas and Margaret can be found in the novel, Forgotten Memories.



Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!


Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help. 

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Annabeth's War: Now Available!

A short while ago, we were given an opportunity to proofread a novel. We are excited to announce it is now available on Amazon ($10.95), and on the Kindle, Nook, and Smashwords ($3.99)!

Annabeth's War was written by Jessica Greyson, and is a delightful, uplifting book--one where you can't wait to see what happens next!

We recommend it for readers of all ages--and it would make the perfect Christmas present!

This is a lovely representation of a novel worth reading.
Here's something extra fun! 

Two bloggers we love (Jessica and Katherine Sophia) have teamed up with a book and bracelet giveaway. Click the picture for more info (and as a special treat, there's also an author interview)!

Monday, December 10, 2012

Character Interview: Grandma Carol Mitchell


Name: Grandma Carol Mitchell

Significant Other: Kyle tells me his name was Michael.

What is your strongest belief? Why do you want to know?

How do you like to spend your time? I like those nice neighbors we have. That little boy is cute.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? I don't know.

What is your favorite food? Kiwi. At least, Kyle says that's it.

Describe yourself in one word: Kind.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? 'Music' is a racket I don't need to hear right now.

Do you like hearing Kyle play guitar? Who's Kyle again? Oh, right. Yes, it's pretty.

What's your favorite flower? Whatever it is that comes up all over the grass every year...it's small and yellow with lots of small petals. That little neighbor boy gives me bouquets of it every so often.

Can you make cookies? Of course I can. If that boy I live with would let me.

What's your favorite memory? Watching my Michael teaching Kyle to play guitar.

Do you like meeting new people? Depends on the person.


Grandma Carol, Michael, and Kyle can be found in the novel, Forgotten Memories.




Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!

Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help. 

Monday, December 3, 2012

Character Interview: Aiden Blake


Name: Aiden Blake

Significant Other: Dude. I'm five. 

What is your strongest belief? I dunno.

How do you like to spend your time? With Jane.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? To Rosie and Bevin's 'cause they always seem to have fun without me. Grandma Carol is nice, too.

What is your favorite food? Macaroni and cheese and hot dogs.

Describe yourself in one word: Strong.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? I don't know types of music!

What's your favorite sport? Soccer.

Do you like to draw? Not really. I like coloring what Maggie draws.

If you had to choose between chocolate and pizza, which would you pick? Chocolate, duh.

Do you like your family? Sometimes. Jane can be bossy, though, and Katty doesn't always play with me. Maggie's nice.

Aiden,
 Jane, Maggie, and Katty can be found in the novel, Forgotten Memories.



Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!

Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help. 

Monday, November 26, 2012

Character Interview: Frank Johnson


Name: Frank Johnson

Significant Other: I know who I'm hoping it will be: Leelee Mitchell. She's amazing.

What is your strongest belief? We are here to help others.

How do you like to spend your time? Making children smile...with Leelee.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? Backus. If the orphanage didn't need me, I'd move there right now.

What is your favorite food? Mashed potatoes.

Describe yourself in one word: Learning.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? That awesome jazzy stuff they play at the galas.

What's your favorite color? The brownish grey of Oak tree bark.

Do you ever get disappointed? Of course.

What's the best thing that's ever happened to you? I met this wonderful young lady who is as passionate about children as I am.

Are you happy? Definitely.

Do you believe in fairies? Yes, but I call them angels.

Frank and Leelee
 can be found in the novel, Forgotten Memories.



Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!

Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help. 

Monday, November 19, 2012

Character Interview: Uncle Bruce Blake


Name: "Uncle" Bruce Blake

Significant Other: None, since my Margie passed.

What is your strongest belief? God uses everything.

How do you like to spend your time? With my nieces and nephews...real or 'adopted'.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? I'd want to go to a place where everyone I love, those living now and those who've gone ahead, would be together. That's heaven, isn't it?

What is your favorite food? Hamburgers, of course.

Describe yourself in one word: Open.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? I don't think I have a preference. Not that rocky stuff kids are listening to these days, though. They're going to bust their ears with that.

Your Diner, what's the best food there? How do I answer this without sounding egotistical? I'm partial to the milkshakes.

Are you worried about anyone? Ella, sometimes. Eric, always.

Was Joe a good worker? The best.

What gave you the inspiration for the name of your diner? "The Diner"? Haha, that's just what people started calling it. I figured it fit.

Do you like to sing? Only when no one can hear. Trust me, no one wants to hear!

Uncle Bruce, Joe, Eric, and Ella
 can be found in the novel, Forgotten Memories.



Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!

Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help. 

Monday, November 12, 2012

Character Interview: Katty Blake

Name: Katty Blake (I'm not telling you my full name because then you'll use it.)

Significant Other: None. How old do you think I am?!

What is your strongest belief? Life is made for fun!

How do you like to spend your time? With friends, doing whatever.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? I love it here in Backus! I miss my friends in Minneapolis, though, so I'd want it to be a place both groups were.

What is your favorite food? Tacos, definitely.

Describe yourself in one word: Silly!

What type of music could you listen to for hours? Whatever's on in the background...doesn't really matter to me.

Is Jane a good older sister? Usually. Maggie's pretty cool, too.

Do you wish you were the oldest? Ha! I don't think I'd make a good oldest sibling--but of course I'd love the power.

Have you ever broken a bone? Nope!

What's your wildest dream? I don't know what you consider wild...I'm gonna be a singer/basketball star someday. I'll sing the anthem before every game!

Do you like candy? LOVE IT!!

Katty, Jane, and Maggie
can be found in the novel, Forgotten Memories.




Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!

Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help.

Monday, November 5, 2012

Character Interview: Simon Benson


Name: Simon Benson

Significant Other: Maria will always be my only love.

What is your strongest belief? False promises are easily broken.

How do you like to spend your time? Reading, or checking on the status of my business.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? Europe.

What is your favorite food? Anything Mical makes.

Describe yourself in one word: Broken.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? I once heard David play the guitar. I could listen to that forever.


Why do you yell at Mical so much? It's the only way she'll learn.

What's your favorite past time? When Maria was alive, we traveled with the family. I miss that.

Have you ever thrown someone a surprise party? Maria was more into that... I did help her put one on for her sister, but that was mostly her.

Are you an introvert? It depends who I'm with.

What's your favorite memory? Watching my beautiful bride as she danced with her father at our wedding.


Simon,
 Mical, and Davey can be found in the novel, Shrouded Jewels.



Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!

Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help.

Monday, October 29, 2012

Character Interview: Peyton Everet

Name: Peyton Everet

Significant Other: None. The woman I thought was for me married another.

What is your strongest belief? Life will always be a struggle.

How do you like to spend your time? I don't have a lot of free time. I work, I go to class, and I do homework. My only breaks are when I have a chance to talk to someone on the bus or online, and neither happen often.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? I couldn't leave this place...too many people are depending on me right now.

What is your favorite food? The kind I don't have to work for.

Describe yourself in one word: Tired.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? I don't have time to listen to anything for that long
.

Describe yourself in a single sentence: On the outside, I don't care what others think of me.

What's your goal in life? To be more successful than my parents.

Do you like anyone? I did.

Are you happy? That's not the word I would use right now.

If someone came up to you and told you there was a dragon standing behind you...what would you do? I'd laugh...then when they left I'd look behind, just to be sure.

P
eyton, Mical, and Anna can be found in the novel, Shrouded Jewels.




Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!

Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help.

Friday, October 26, 2012

Grammar Day: Plurals

Grammar is a tricky subject. With all the rules and exceptions, how can a person keep track? I can't answer that, but I can help with little pieces here and there.

Today's Topic: Plurals




Well, how do you make a word a plural? 

Basic Rule: Unfortunately, there isn't just one. Plurals are complex! But here's picture to help us all out.



I love to learn; let me know what I'm forgetting!

Have a grammatical question? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com to learn the answer--and have your question featured in an upcoming Grammar Day post! I'm here to help and encourage in any way I can.

Visit my website to learn more about me, my books, and my proofreading services, or join the Rivershore Books Writing Forum for support from fellow authors.

Still want more? Find me on FacebookPinterestTumblr, and Twitter!

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Spiritual Invented Creation


Rivershore Books is pleased to announce the publication of Spiritual Invented Creation, an autobiography by Don Richardson. The author is refreshingly honest about the struggles he's gone through, which include cancer, drinking, and the loss of a dear friend. The book also contains much of his poetry, written during these difficulties.

Because of the content it is an emotional read, but worth it.

You can purchase this short but powerful book on CreateSpace and Amazon, for only $10:

CreateSpace
Amazon

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Book Excerpt: Shrouded Jewels

Shrouded Jewels is available on Amazon, Lulu, the Nook, and Kindle

       If Davey was impressed by the size of the Benson’s home, he didn’t show it. He seemed more curious about the people than about the house. None of their father’s business associates had ever shown an interest in them. To Mical, it was unnerving.
       “Where do you go to school, Mical?” he asked.
       Mical didn’t respond, and instead pointed to the basement stairs. They led to another large room.
       Davey peered inside. “This doesn’t look much like a school.”
       Jonathan laughed and Mira lifted her hand to hide a smile.
       “There’s a bathroom connected to your room you can use,” Mical said flatly.
       “I will probably do that,” Davey said.
       “Your room is the second door to the right.”
       “And straight on till morning?” He asked.
       Mical turned to Mira, hoping to find an explanation in her features. 
       Davey smiled gently. “Peter Pan, anyone?”

Still want more? Find me on Facebook, Pinterest, Tumblr, and Twitter!

Monday, October 22, 2012

Character Interview: Aiden Richardson


Name: Aiden Richardson

Significant Other: That would be the gorgeous Mira.

What is your strongest belief? People can spend a lifetime claiming they've changed, but the proof is in their actions.

How do you like to spend your time? I'm really enjoying the walks with Mira. I also love running. Davey and I used to hang out more, and I miss that, too.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? Anywhere and everywhere. I love traveling.

What is your favorite food? Ooh...whatever Mira makes for me--I think that's a safe answer.

Describe yourself in one word: A work in progress. Sorry, I don't know one word that means that.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? Davey's guitar playing is just unbelievably amazing. I wish he did it more.


How did you meet Davey? Do I have to answer this? Let's just say we both made some mistakes, but God used them to introduce us to each other.

What was your first impression of Mira? She's gorgeous. I usually don't notice anything but the path ahead of me when I run... seeing her made me slow down... and then we started talking.

Do you have a favorite comic book? Honestly, I don't read much of anything.

Describe your worst nightmare: You don't want to know.

Are you scared of clowns? Ah, you found my weakness: men in heavy make-up! But seriously...who decided that was supposed to bring smiles?
Aiden, Mira, and Davey can be found in the novel, Shrouded Jewels.




Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!

Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help.

Friday, October 19, 2012

Grammar Day: Exclamation Points

Grammar is a tricky subject. With all the rules and exceptions, how can a person keep track? I can't answer that, but I can help with little pieces here and there.

Today's Topic: Exclamation Points

I won't tell you to avoid them completely--but do use them sparingly.


Consider them an opportunity to emphasize a point. (See what I did there?) If every sentence ends with one, the writing sounds like a five-year-old on their third energy drink.
We went to a party, and there was dancing and music! My favorite rock star was there! I had pop and danced all night!
If you omit most of those, it allows you to showcase the most exciting part.
We went to a party, and there was dancing and music. My favorite rock star was there! I had pop and danced all night.
Final Note: Exclamation points have a place in professional and creative writing, but it is a very small one. People don't enjoy being yelled at.

I love to learn; let me know what I'm forgetting!

Have a grammatical question? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com to learn the answer--and have your question featured in an upcoming Grammar Day post! I'm here to help and encourage in any way I can.

Visit my website to learn more about me, my books, and my proofreading services, or join the Rivershore Books Writing Forum for support from fellow authors.

Still want more? Find me on FacebookPinterestTumblr, and Twitter!

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Guest Blogger: Building Characters

Today I'm pleased to introduce you to a friend and fellow author, Emilie.


Building Characters

Characters are the most important element in a story. They’re what will shape the story, drive the plot, and pull readers in. You can have the most elaborate, well-plotted story, but if the characters aren’t interesting, a reader is going to get bored and put the book down.

Readers want to read about realistic, relatable characters. If your character is perfect, never does anything wrong, and has no flaws, the reader won’t be able to relate to them. Give them some realistic flaws. Maybe your heroine is quick to jump to conclusions, or your hero has a hard time controlling his temper. Those are faults people can relate to--possibly something they themselves struggle with. Don’t be afraid to make a character human and give him/her imperfections. Believe me, they’ll be more enjoyable, and your reader will be pulled in emotionally.

That’s just one way to make your character interesting. Another is to give your character a history or backstory. This is something that the reader doesn’t need to know in full, but is good for you as the author. It will help you write about your character.

A couple years ago, I had a character, Hermione, who I couldn’t figure out. She was secretive, stubborn, and trusted no one. I had a very vague idea as to why, but couldn’t figure out the real reason. So I sat down and started filling out a character questionnaire for her. I flew through the basic questions (hair, eyes, height etc.) but when I came to the question about childhood/teen experiences, I had to pause and really think about it. By the time I finished, I had a full page and a half of lined paper describing what happened in her past, and those pages were invaluable to me. I finally understood why at the time the story takes place she trusted no one but her sister, and several other things that helped me write the rest of the story.

Past experiences are also going to influence how your character will react. Sheridan, another of my characters, wasn’t very self-confident. His parents favored his older brother, who couldn’t do anything wrong in their eyes. Sheridan is seen as a failure and has to struggle to prove himself his whole life, and when the opportunity comes for him to break a curse and be the hero, he doubts himself, despite his friends encouraging and cheering him on. His past is going to affect his decisions.

His decisions also influence how the story will turn out. Sheridan could turn away; refuse to help break the curse because he’s afraid of failing again. On the other hand, he can stick to it and do his best, regardless of the threat of failing. Those are his options. If he chooses the first option, the story will end very differently than if he goes with the second.

Change is also important for a character. If by the end of the book there is no change whatsoever, the story will have no meaning. This doesn’t mean your character needs to change drastically, but something needs to be changed. If Sheridan breaks the curse, his self-confidence will be boosted, and he’ll start believing in himself more. In contrast, if he doesn’t break the curse, his confidence will wilt even more, crushing what little belief he had in himself. Either way, he ends up changed.

In some stories your character might require a drastic change. Take, for example, Scrooge from Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. At the beginning of the story, Ebenezer Scrooge is a cranky, selfish, old man. He goes on a journey into the past, the present, and the future, accompanied by three ghosts. He sees what his life would be like if he continued on his self-centered path, and he changes his ways within a night.

Names can be significant to a character as well. There is no strategy or right way to go about picking a name. Sometimes you just know what name will suit your character; other times it will take a little more work. I tend to look for names with meanings that show the character’s personality, or that intertwine with the story. If you find while you’re writing that the name you’re using isn’t working, change it. Don’t keep working with a name you dislike. It will slow down your writing.

All this rings true when creating your villains as well. They need to be realistic, only their flaws will be more prominent and often they don’t overcome them. Backstories are also just as important for villains as they are for main characters. They show you how your villain became who he/she is at the time your story takes place, and you discover their motive. As for names, I wouldn’t find a villain very intimidating if his name was Elmer.

Finally, your characters will sometimes whisper ingenious ideas into your head that work much better than the ones you had planned; other times, they’ll refuse to tell you anything and you’ll have to struggle through to the next part. Don’t stress. It’s all part of the process of getting to know them, just like you would get to know an acquaintance. Eventually, they become good friends.

So next time you meet new characters for your story, try getting to know them before writing and see what happens. It’s an adventure: get out there and have fun!


Emilie Phillips wasn't much of a writer in her younger years. In fact, it didn't interest her until the age twelve, when her sisters began writing. Not wanting to be left out, she put pen to paper and hasn't stopped since. Many of her stories involved princesses and princes, kidnappings, and there were a number of pioneer stories. While these are still elements she loves, fairy tales and fantasies captivate her.

She wrote her first complete novel, Midnight Captive during NaNoWriMo in 2010. It is in the revision/editing stages at the moment and once it is finished, Emilie hopes to self-publish it sometime in the new year. She is currently preparing for NaNoWriMo 2012 during which she hopes to write and complete her third book and year participating in the writing fiasco.

Monday, October 15, 2012

Character Interview: Kara Nielson


Name: Kara Nielson

Significant Other: Well, I've been hanging out with Robbie, but I wouldn't call him a significant other. Just a friend. A really, really good friend. Who happens to be a guy. I don't know why I brought him up in this question, either. Can we just erase that and say my answer is "none"? Please?

What is your strongest belief? I'm still sorting that out.

How do you like to spend your time? Helping out the Blakes is fun...watching or playing sports can be, depending who's playing.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? I don't know. Maybe somewhere in South America...

What is your favorite food? Anything spicy.

Describe yourself in one word: Feisty.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? Country. Gotta love it
.

Your dream is to be...? Out of this house. Beyond that, I don't really care.

Do you really like Robbie? I don't think I know you well enough to be comfortable with you asking me that.

Have you gone to Disney World/Land? I haven't even been to Wisconsin.

What was your first impression of Davey? He seemed nice, and he got me to smile...not many people can do that on our first meeting.

K
ara, Robbie, Davey, Ella, and Joe can be found in the novels, Shrouded Jewels and Forgotten Memories.




Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!

Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help.

Friday, October 12, 2012

Grammar Day: Writing Numbers


Grammar is a tricky subject. With all the rules and exceptions, how can a person keep track? I can't answer that, but I can help with little pieces here and there.

Today's Topic: Writing Numbers

Basic Rule: If the number is twenty or under, it's spelled out.

One...six...twelve...fifteen.
If it's 21 or above, it's written in number form.


Any Exceptions? Yes. When there are two or more numbers in the same sentence, the formats should match.
There were 3 girls and 29 boys.
The party had only two bottles of pop, but one hundred and ten bags of chips.
Final Note: In the exceptions, it is your choice to spell out or to use the number form. Since larger numbers are easier to read (and write!) in the number form, I recommend this for numbers over 100.
1,293
vs.
One thousand, two hundred, ninety-three.
Still, it's up to you.

I love to learn; let me know what I'm forgetting!

Have a grammatical question? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com to learn the answer--and have your question featured in an upcoming Grammar Day post! I'm here to help and encourage in any way I can.

Visit my website to learn more about me, my books, and my proofreading services, or join the Rivershore Books Writing Forum for support from fellow authors.

Still want more? Find me on FacebookPinterestTumblr, and Twitter!

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Book Excerpt: Sanisfreeda

The ebook of Sanisfreeda is available free on Smashwords and Barnes & Noble, and for $0.99 on Amazon.

      When their eyes became adjusted to the sudden bright light, the natural light of the outdoors, they looked around the small courtyard in awe.
      “It’s so…pretty,” Rosie said, temporarily forgetting her fears.
      “Look at that grass—it’s so green it doesn’t look real,” AnnaMarie said.
      “That water doesn’t look so good though,” Kyle said, motioning toward a brown waterfall.
      “Ew,” Jane said.
      “Wait, it’s not dirty," AnnaMarie said, stepping closer. "It looks really clean, actually.”
      “You’re kidding, right? Jane, tell me she's kidding,” Rosie said. “It’s like mud.”
      “No, she's right.” Bevin put a finger into it. It wrapped around his skin, like melted chocolate would.
      “Does it hurt?” Jane asked.
      “It’s warm,” he said, “not hot enough to burn. That’s so weird. Isn't water usually cold?”
      “Are you sure that’s water?” AnnaMarie asked.

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Monday, October 8, 2012

Character Interview: Anna Martinez


Name: Anna Martinez

Significant Other: None. The young man I care for has his eyes on another.

What is your strongest belief? God works through all circumstances.

How do you like to spend your time? Talking and sipping tea with good friends.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? I actually really love the twin cities.

What is your favorite food? Sweets as a whole.

Describe yourself in one word: Learning.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? Anything played on a harp
.

Do you have a crush on anyone? Unfortunately...yes.

What was your first impression of Mira? I'm not sure I've met her...she's Mical's sister, right? I think I've seen her from afar. It's hard to tell anything from afar. Mical really cares about her, though, so I'm sure she's wonderful.

Have you ever wished for a pony? I'm pretty sure everyone has, at one point.

Do you like pickles? I don't dislike them. They're not my favorite, though.
Anna, Mical, and Peyton can be found in the novel, Shrouded Jewels.




Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!

Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help.

Friday, October 5, 2012

Grammar Day: Smiley Faces


Grammar is a tricky subject. With all the rules and exceptions, how can a person keep track? I can't answer that, but I can help with little pieces here and there.

Today's Topic: Smiley Faces


Quick and easy tip: Don't use smileys in professional writing.

I know it's tempting. There are often times where I feel that adding a smiley would soften the message, but I resist.

Smileys, simply put, are unprofessional. Between friends and family, they're great. With your boss, coworker, employee, or client, they don't fit in. Instead, rely on your words to soften the message.

Final Note: Please and thank you are still good phrases. 

I love to learn; let me know what I'm forgetting!

Have a grammatical question? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com to learn the answer--and have your question featured in an upcoming Grammar Day post! I'm here to help and encourage in any way I can.

Visit my website to learn more about me, my books, and my proofreading services, or join the Rivershore Books Writing Forum for support from fellow authors.

Still want more? Find me on FacebookPinterestTumblr, and Twitter!

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Behind-the-Scenes: Editing Process

When a typical novel is around 70,000 words, it can be intimidating to start the editing portion of writing. I edit my novels at least five times before publishing. I change things every time.

The first few read throughs are to decide which scenes to keep, which scenes to delete, and which scenes to change. This takes a while, and sometimes involves completely rearranging the manuscript.

When it's to the point where it's chronological from beginning to end and contains nothing (overtly) unnecessary, I read it to check continuity. If a character is short and blonde in chapter two, she'd better be short and blonde in chapter twelve--or at least have some explanation for the change (hair dyed purple on a dare; standing on stilts).

The final step is basic proofreading. Of course during the other read throughs I've changed any typos I've noticed, but now that is my only focus.

This is me during the proofreading phase.

At this point, I also ask for at least one outside pair of eyes (my Grandma is my 'official' proofreader). I've seen the words so many times, I sometimes skim past the mistakes.

After that, it's formatting. I do a little skimming as I format, but I'm more concerned with how the words are lining up on the page.

When my proof copy comes, I read through one final time. Seeing it in print sometimes helps me find things I missed on the computer, and it's a chance to check the formatting.

They say first drafts aren't perfect. Well, neither are second or third drafts. From talking with fellow authors and reading behind-the-scenes pieces, I'm convinced this is a fairly universal experience--so don't be discouraged.

If you'd like a second pair of eyes or formatting help, visit the Rivershore Books website or email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com.

Monday, October 1, 2012

Character Interview: Kyle Nielson


Name: Kyle Nielson

Significant Other: None so far.

What is your strongest belief? People have layers.

How do you like to spend your time? I play guitar a lot.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? Out of state somewhere.

What is your favorite food? Hot chocolate. Is that not a food?

Describe yourself in one word: Skeptical.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? Classical guitar--not played by m
e.

Who taught you how to play guitar? Mostly, I taught myself. Dad gave me a few pointers, though, when he was around.

Would you consider auditioning for American Idol? Ha! No, thank you. I don't need my technical abilities picked apart in front of the entire TV-watching world.

Do you wish Rosie would be nicer to you? Sometimes, yeah. It's not like I've been perfect toward her, either.

Are you excited about anything? Not really.

Do you ever wish you were someone like Robin Hood? Doesn't everyone?

K
yle, Jane, Rosie, and Bevin can be found in the novel, Forgotten Memories.




Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!

Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help.

Friday, September 28, 2012

Grammar Day: Title Capitalization


Grammar is a tricky subject. With all the rules and exceptions, how can a person keep track? I can't answer that, but I can help with little pieces here and there.

Today's Topic: Title Capitalizaton

This is one of those deceptively confusing pieces of grammar. Which words are or aren't capitalized in a title can sometimes seem arbitrary. For example, picture the previous sentence as a title:


Which Words Are or Aren't Capitalized in a Title Can Sometimes Seem Arbitrary

Who decides this??

Any tips? Small words such as 'the', 'and', or 'a' are generally not capitalized, unless they begin the sentence.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

A general rule I use is that if the word is three letters or fewer, it won't be capitalized.

Any Exceptions? Unfortunately, there are a lot of exceptions. In the first example, you can see that there are two three letter words that are capitalized: Are and Can. The word 'be' would also be capitalized.

How to Be an Artist

Perhaps a better rule is: If the word is a connecting word, it shouldn't be capitalized.

Some connecting words:

  • to
  • and
  • but
  • an/a
  • the
  • in
  • or
I love to learn; let me know what I'm forgetting!

Have a grammatical question? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com to learn the answer--and have your question featured in an upcoming Grammar Day post! I'm here to help and encourage in any way I can.

Visit my website to learn more about me, my books, and my proofreading services, or join the Rivershore Books Writing Forum for support from fellow authors.

Still want more? Find me on FacebookPinterestTumblr, and Twitter!

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Book Excerpt: Forgotten Memories

Forgotten Memories is available on AmazonLulu, the Nook, and Smashwords.

      “So, um...this is awkward, but...that's my grandma you're sitting on.”

      I stared at the young man, curious what he could mean. A half smile inched across his face, and he motioned to the headstone I was leaning against. I gasped and immediately stood up. 
      “I am so sorry,” I said. “I didn't realize—I mean, I should have realized—I just—I'm sorry.”        The man chuckled. “Told you it was awkward,” he said, his dark brown eyes crinkling at the corners as he continued to smile. “I'm Joe.”        “Ella,” I said, tucking my notebook under my arm and shaking his hand.        “So, Ella...do you often come here and sit on others' graves?” He pushed his dark hair out of his eyes as he waited for my response.        I sighed. “You are not making this any less uncomfortable.”        “I'm honestly curious.”        “Okay,” I hesitated and glanced at the cemetery. “Then yes, I do. I guess I didn’t really think of it like that until today.”
      “Ah, yes,” Joe smirked. “Until today you were able to think of headstones as the backs of very uncomfortable benches.”
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Monday, September 24, 2012

Character Interview: Robbie Blake


Name: Robbie Blake

Significant Other: Well, I've been hanging out Kara more often lately. We'll see how that goes, I guess.

What is your strongest belief? I don't know...life is just fun.

How do you like to spend your time? Running, doing sports, and avoiding my parents.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? I don't think there's a specific place. I'd love to be living on my own, though. I did like Backus when we lived there...

What is your favorite food? Pizza! Especially if it has BACON on it.

Describe yourself in one word: Fun.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? I don't think I could deal with any kind of music for hours. That's rid
iculous.

Is Davey a good older brother? He can be. He also can be a real pill.

What was your first thought when he brought Mical home? Eh... She's okay. Needs to learn how to take a joke, but so do most people.

Have you ever ridden a unicorn? No, but if you catch one, let me know.

What's your favorite hobby? Baseball is pretty awesome.

Who's your favorite superhero? Superman. Obviously.

Do you consider yourself to be crazy? Sometimes!

Robbie, Kara, Davey, Joe, and Ell
a can be found in the novels, Forgotten Memories and Shrouded Jewels.




Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!

Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help.

Friday, September 21, 2012

Grammar Day: Ellipses


Grammar is a tricky subject. With all the rules and exceptions, how can a person keep track? I can't answer that, but I can help with little pieces here and there.

Today's Topic: Ellipses

I'm letting my geeky nature show through once again: ellipses are one of my very favorite grammatical pieces.


Definition: An ellipsis is more commonly referred to as 'dot dot dot'. It's this beautiful punctuation mark: ...

Spelling: Ellipsis is singular; ellipses is plural.

What's the point? This lovely 'dot dot dot' is used in both scholarly writings and novels. In a scholarly piece, an ellipsis is used when a portion of a quote is removed. The ellipsis is placed in brackets, to show that it is not part of the quoted words.

The popular hymn states, "Amazing grace [...] that saved a wretch like me."
In a creative work, the ellipsis can be used to show words trailing off. 
He ran a hand through his hair. "I suppose that's okay..."
 It can also be used as part of a sentence.
"Well, no...but I had thought that, too."
Capitalization: When an ellipsis is in the middle of a sentence, the following word is not capitalized.
"We know that...and there was something else we were suppose to remember."
When the sentence trails off and a new one begins, there should be a space after the ellipsis, and the following word should be capitalized.
"She said... Well, I don't remember now."
I love to learn; let me know what I'm forgetting!

Have a grammatical question? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com to learn the answer--and have your question featured in an upcoming Grammar Day post! I'm here to help and encourage in any way I can.

Visit my website to learn more about me, my books, and my proofreading services, or join the Rivershore Books Writing Forum for support from fellow authors.

Still want more? Find me on FacebookPinterestTumblr, and Twitter!

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Review of Shrouded Jewels


Thank you to Claudia Meydrech, a professional book reviewer who recently posted a review of Shrouded Jewels!

Please click here to view the post.

I appreciate the time she invested, and the kind words. (Her blog is also a great resource for authors and readers!)

Thank you, also, to Kateri and Kevin, who have posted well-thought-out reviews on Amazon!

If you have read Forgotten Memories, Shrouded Jewels, or Sansifreeda, thank you! Please consider posting a review on your blog, Facebook, or on Amazon (click on the title above to be directed to the Amazon product page). Your feedback is appreciated!

Monday, September 17, 2012

Character Interview: Bevin Tyler

Name: Bevin Tyler

Significant Other: None yet. I'm only sixteen.

What is your strongest belief? God makes an excellent navigator.

How do you like to spend your time? Whatever my sister Rosie is doing, I'll probably enjoy. Otherwise, I like to read and go for walks.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go? I like it here in Backus, but it would be fun to visit other countries.

What is your favorite food? Egg rolls are amazing.

Describe yourself in one word: Compliant.

What type of music could you listen to for hours? Contemporary Christian.


Do you feel like you often live in Rosie's shadow? Interesting question... I guess you could say that. She just seems to have good ideas more than I do.

How do you like the idea of chocolate covered pickles? I think that sounds gross.

What is your favorite subject in school? I really enjoy math. Numbers can be so intriguing sometimes.

Are you an introvert? Yeah, I guess that's the word you'd use for me.

Do you like answering questions? Not when they're about me. Why don't you tell me a little about you, instead?

Have you ever had a cavity? I had a small one when I was younger. None since.

Do you like Jane? Jane is very sweet and a good friend.


Bevin, Rosie, and Jane can be found in the novel, Forgotten Memories, and the short story, Sanisfreeda.




Questions courtesy of Kateri and Bonnie. Thank you!

Want a question answered in a future interview? Email me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com or visit the Rivershore Books writing forum to give your input!

Are you an author in need of support? Visit Rivershore Books to learn about proofreading, editing, and publishing options, or email me with any questions. I'm here to help.