Name: Chrissy Matthias. Well, Christiana, if you want to be exact.
Significant Other: None, but God's keeping me content.
What is your strongest belief? It's possible to be happy in just about any circumstance.
How do you like to spend your time? With people. I don't care what we're doing, but I have to be with people. (I don't think you understand. It isn't just that I want to be with them. I have to. Otherwise I go a little loopy. You don't want to see that.)
If you could go anywhere, where would you go? Anywhere and everywhere possible. The moon! Think how exciting that would be!
What is your favorite food? I have to pick just one? Oh boy. Well, chicken lo mein is pretty spiffy.
Describe yourself in one word: Carefree. Not always, but it's my goal. Not because I don't think anything's worth concern, but because I know God's taking care of it on His own.
What type of music could you listen to for hours? Just about anything, really, but I'm partial to Christian contemporary. Jamie Grace is a favorite...if you've ever heard her song Hold Me and it didn't bring a smile to your face, there's something wrong with you. Sorry to be blunt, but it's how I feel.
Favorite color? Green! It's so bright and cheery and natural.
Do you like pets? I like other people's pets. They can be the cutest things ever. I wouldn't want my own. Once I have to start cleaning poop and pee, they lose several points off their adorable factor.
Jonathan...what do you think of him? You just get right to the point, don't you? He's a good friend, and I admire him. I look forward to getting to know him more. Sorry if that's not the answer you were hoping for.
How did you meet Mical? Our parents were at a party, and they stuck us in the same room with instructions to entertain each other. Haha!
Have you ever thought about becoming a teacher? When I was little, that was my dream job. I'm not sure why, but I've moved on since then. Do you think I'd be a good one?
Chrissy, Mical, and Jonathan can be found in the novel, Shrouded Jewels.
Questions courtesy of Bonnie and Kateri. 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, July 30, 2012
Friday, July 27, 2012
Grammar Day: Parentheses
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: Parentheses
Ever since I learned how to use them, parentheses have had a special place in my grammar-loving heart. (Yes, I know I'm silly.)
Spelling: Parentheses refers to both (), while parenthesis refers to one (. Now you have some useless knowledge to share at your next party.
What's the point? Parentheses are used to separate additional information from the rest of a sentence or paragraph. I like to think of them as side-thoughts. They are connected to the topic, but not perfectly.
I love to learn; let me know what I'm forgetting!
Today's Topic: Parentheses
Ever since I learned how to use them, parentheses have had a special place in my grammar-loving heart. (Yes, I know I'm silly.)
Spelling: Parentheses refers to both (), while parenthesis refers to one (. Now you have some useless knowledge to share at your next party.
What's the point? Parentheses are used to separate additional information from the rest of a sentence or paragraph. I like to think of them as side-thoughts. They are connected to the topic, but not perfectly.
We went tubing (our boat sprung a leak) last week.Punctuation: When the parentheses are part of the sentence, the period goes outside, no matter where the parentheses land.
I enjoyed the tour (mosquitoes and all).When the parentheses are a separate sentence, the period goes inside.
She said she liked it okay. (Okay is her word for 'not at all'.)It is almost always possible to avoid using parentheses. I use them in informal writing, but for many pieces I leave them out. This is, of course, personal preference.
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.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Behind-the-Scenes: Book Formats
My brother refers to my novels as never-ending projects, because when I say, "I finished my book," that's not the end of the publishing journey. All that means is that the writing and editing portion is done.
What else is there? Formatting. Oh, and more formatting.
Both my novels (Shrouded Jewels and Forgotten Memories) are available in ebook, paperback, and hardcover formats. By the time I'm actually done with a novel, I have reformatted it five different times. Six, if you count both hardcover versions--but those are (thankfully) very similar to each other.
Paper Size and Margins
Before I put even one word on paper, I adjust Word's normal settings to fit my book. Since I start with paperback, I change the size of the pages to 5 x 8, and adjust the margins according to CreateSpace's guidelines (for mine, .75 inside and at least .25 outside, top, and bottom).
For hardcover I use Lulu, but if you find a cheaper option, please let me know! My goal is always to offer my books at the lowest possible price. The typical trade size of hardcover is 6 x 9, so that requires adjusting the page sizes once more. (I wait until the paperback version is finished to begin this.)
Kindle, Nook, and Smashwords (which will make your book available in various ebook formats, including PDF for computer viewing) require regular formatting: 8.5 x 11. That is Word's default size, so you may find that selecting the entire document (ctrl+a) and copy/pasting (ctrl+c, ctrl+v) into a Notepad, then copy/pasting into a new Word will be simplest. This will strip all the formatting, so if you rely on italicizing as I do, changing the size in the current document is better.
Fonts and Sizes
The fonts and sizes are personal preference. The following is what I use:
Content: 10 pt, Bookman Old Style
Chapter Titles: 20 pt, Garamond, italicized
Title: 45 pt, Garamond, italicized
Title page, 'by': 16 pt, Garamond
Title page, author name: 20 pt, Garamond, italicized
Thank Yous (cover models and photographer): 10 pt, Bookman Old Style, italicized
Copyright Information: 9 pt, Bookman Old Style
Acknowledgments & Dedication: 10 pt, Bookman Old Style
Page Numbers: 14 pt, Garamond
Headings: 14 pt, Garamond, italicized
Section Breaks
Regardless which format you use, section breaks are important. These start new pages, and can change the headings and page numbers from one page to the next. They are a complex subject, and this post is already long, but there are helpful guides available on CreateSpace, Smashwords, Kindle, and Nook.
Page Numbers and Headings
Ebook formats do not have page numbers or headings, since devices don't read based on page.
Special to Ebooks
Since ebook formats are clickable, you'll want to create a linked Table of Contents. There are handy instructions for how on Smashwords, Kindle, and Nook.
What Formats Are There?
I said above I reformat my novels six times.
My belief is that the more options I can give readers, the better, but it's up to you how you'd like to do it.
Yes, it's a lot. No, it isn't never-ending. I am happy to say I am done, really and truly, with both my novels. You can be, too.
Not sure where to start? Read about why I chose CreateSpace.
Formatting can be frustrating. I'm always here to answer questions. If you're at the point of giving up, I would be happy to format your book for a small fee. Visit Rivershore Books to learn more, or email me for a personalized quote.
What else is there? Formatting. Oh, and more formatting.
Both my novels (Shrouded Jewels and Forgotten Memories) are available in ebook, paperback, and hardcover formats. By the time I'm actually done with a novel, I have reformatted it five different times. Six, if you count both hardcover versions--but those are (thankfully) very similar to each other.
Paper Size and Margins
Before I put even one word on paper, I adjust Word's normal settings to fit my book. Since I start with paperback, I change the size of the pages to 5 x 8, and adjust the margins according to CreateSpace's guidelines (for mine, .75 inside and at least .25 outside, top, and bottom).
For hardcover I use Lulu, but if you find a cheaper option, please let me know! My goal is always to offer my books at the lowest possible price. The typical trade size of hardcover is 6 x 9, so that requires adjusting the page sizes once more. (I wait until the paperback version is finished to begin this.)
Kindle, Nook, and Smashwords (which will make your book available in various ebook formats, including PDF for computer viewing) require regular formatting: 8.5 x 11. That is Word's default size, so you may find that selecting the entire document (ctrl+a) and copy/pasting (ctrl+c, ctrl+v) into a Notepad, then copy/pasting into a new Word will be simplest. This will strip all the formatting, so if you rely on italicizing as I do, changing the size in the current document is better.
Fonts and Sizes
The fonts and sizes are personal preference. The following is what I use:
Content: 10 pt, Bookman Old Style
Chapter Titles: 20 pt, Garamond, italicized
Title: 45 pt, Garamond, italicized
Title page, 'by': 16 pt, Garamond
Title page, author name: 20 pt, Garamond, italicized
Thank Yous (cover models and photographer): 10 pt, Bookman Old Style, italicized
Copyright Information: 9 pt, Bookman Old Style
Acknowledgments & Dedication: 10 pt, Bookman Old Style
Page Numbers: 14 pt, Garamond
Headings: 14 pt, Garamond, italicized
If you're skipping print, as many authors do, the fonts and sizes in ebooks do not transfer. Ebook readers often give the reader the option to change the font, color, and size to fit their own preferences. Stick to 12 pt, Times New Roman or another system font to avoid complications.
Section Breaks
Regardless which format you use, section breaks are important. These start new pages, and can change the headings and page numbers from one page to the next. They are a complex subject, and this post is already long, but there are helpful guides available on CreateSpace, Smashwords, Kindle, and Nook.
Page Numbers and Headings
Ebook formats do not have page numbers or headings, since devices don't read based on page.
Special to Ebooks
Since ebook formats are clickable, you'll want to create a linked Table of Contents. There are handy instructions for how on Smashwords, Kindle, and Nook.
What Formats Are There?
I said above I reformat my novels six times.
- Paperback (CreateSpace--which is connected to Amazon)
- Hardcover, casewrap (Lulu)
- Hardcover, dust-jacket (Lulu. The only difference between this and 2 is that the author bio goes on the dust jacket instead of in the last pages of the book.)
- Kindle (CreateSpace has a helpful link for this once your book is in paperback, but you can also access it directly on Amazon.)
- Nook (Barnes & Noble)
- All other ebook formats (Smashwords)
My belief is that the more options I can give readers, the better, but it's up to you how you'd like to do it.
Yes, it's a lot. No, it isn't never-ending. I am happy to say I am done, really and truly, with both my novels. You can be, too.
Not sure where to start? Read about why I chose CreateSpace.
Formatting can be frustrating. I'm always here to answer questions. If you're at the point of giving up, I would be happy to format your book for a small fee. Visit Rivershore Books to learn more, or email me for a personalized quote.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Character Interviews: Joe Blake
Name: Joe Blake
Significant Other: Isn't it obvious? Ella's the girl for me.
What is your strongest belief? True change is possible, but requires time and patience.
Does the word glitter make you want to put it (glitter) on people? ...I'm going to say no. As tempting as that would be, I have a feeling there would be a lot of angry people on my trail.
If you got to travel back in time which time period would you pick? 0 B.C. Or whenever it was that Jesus was born.
Explain your answer to the above question about why you picked that time period. Can you imagine seeing Jesus grow up? I can't, either, but I'd like to.
Name one of your favorite authors. Mark Twain is a funny man.
Joe Blake and Ella Mitchell can be found in both Forgotten Memories and Shrouded Jewels. (Both novels are available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Lulu.)
Interview questions courtesy of Megan 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!
Significant Other: Isn't it obvious? Ella's the girl for me.
What is your strongest belief? True change is possible, but requires time and patience.
How do you like to spend your time? Give me a good-sized kitchen and access to a pantry and fridge, and I'll be content for hours.
If you could go anywhere, where would you go? I'm rather enjoying the atmosphere in Backus. I think I'll stay here a while.
What is your favorite food? Uncle Bruce's milkshakes are unbeatable.
Describe yourself in one word: I try to be funny. Yes, I realize that's five words, but I never was a rule-follower.
What type of music could you listen to for hours? Jazz will never cease to make me smile.If you could go anywhere, where would you go? I'm rather enjoying the atmosphere in Backus. I think I'll stay here a while.
What is your favorite food? Uncle Bruce's milkshakes are unbeatable.
Describe yourself in one word: I try to be funny. Yes, I realize that's five words, but I never was a rule-follower.
Does the word glitter make you want to put it (glitter) on people? ...I'm going to say no. As tempting as that would be, I have a feeling there would be a lot of angry people on my trail.
If you got to travel back in time which time period would you pick? 0 B.C. Or whenever it was that Jesus was born.
Explain your answer to the above question about why you picked that time period. Can you imagine seeing Jesus grow up? I can't, either, but I'd like to.
Name one of your favorite authors. Mark Twain is a funny man.
Joe Blake and Ella Mitchell can be found in both Forgotten Memories and Shrouded Jewels. (Both novels are available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Lulu.)
Interview questions courtesy of Megan 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, July 20, 2012
Grammar Day: Commas in Lists
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: Commas in Lists
Commas are a complex subject, so there will be a series of posts on them. Today's will be short.
When writing a list of three or more items, commas should separate each item. As a rule, I use the Oxford comma (a comma before the 'and') to avoid possible confusion.
Final Note: Lists of two do not need commas.
Today's Topic: Commas in Lists
Commas are a complex subject, so there will be a series of posts on them. Today's will be short.
When writing a list of three or more items, commas should separate each item. As a rule, I use the Oxford comma (a comma before the 'and') to avoid possible confusion.
Red, transparent, and blue.
NOT: Red, transparent and blue.How could that be confusing? Consider the meaning of the following sentences.
I'm inspired by my parents, Anne Frank, and Einstein.
I'm inspired by my parents, Anne Frank and Einstein.In the first, it's clear the author is inspired by four separate people. In the second...are Anne Frank and Einstein her parents? Unlikely, but in a more realistic example (My parents, Bob, and Mary) the confusion could arise if the second comma is missing.
Final Note: Lists of two do not need commas.
Red and blue.
NOT: Red, and blue.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.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Book Summary: Shrouded Jewels
Mical Benson’s father is guarded, so Davey Blake’s
invitation to the Benson’s home is evidence of his good character. Still, Mical
knows it is the perfect opportunity for him to work his way into their hearts
before stealing her father’s great wealth.
In spite of her suspicions, Mical eventually falls
into his 'trap'. As they move beyond mutual loathing, they learn that some
things aren’t as obvious as they first appear. Everything is working in their
favor, but when Davey’s past returns, all he has built up may be lost forever…
This modern retelling of the 1 Samuel 18 Bible
story delves into the motivations and challenges Davey and Mical meet on their
journey to trust and faith.
Shrouded Jewels is now available in paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats!
Ebook: ($4.99)
Shrouded Jewels on Kindle
Shrouded Jewels on Nook
Shrouded Jewels on Smashwords
Paperback: ($12.99)
Shrouded Jewels on Amazon
Shrouded Jewels in my CreateSpace store
Hardcover, casewrap: ($24.00)
Shrouded Jewels on Lulu
Hardcover, dust-jacket ($25.60)
Shrouded Jewels on Lulu
You are welcome to purchase paperback or hardcover editions by emailing me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com. I am honored to sign any copies purchased directly from me!
Ebook: ($4.99)
Shrouded Jewels on Kindle
Shrouded Jewels on Nook
Shrouded Jewels on Smashwords
Paperback: ($12.99)
Shrouded Jewels on Amazon
Shrouded Jewels in my CreateSpace store
Hardcover, casewrap: ($24.00)
Shrouded Jewels on Lulu
Hardcover, dust-jacket ($25.60)
Shrouded Jewels on Lulu
You are welcome to purchase paperback or hardcover editions by emailing me at Jansina@rivershorebooks.com. I am honored to sign any copies purchased directly from me!
Monday, July 16, 2012
Character Interviews: Jonathan Benson
Name: Jonathan Benson
Significant Other: I know who I would like it to be. No, I'm not going to tell you. She might be reading this!
What is your strongest belief? There's some good in this world, and it's worth fighting for. (I admit, I stole that from Samwise.)
Do you think that you should have your own TV show on re-designing rooms? Haha, I don't know that I should, but I definitely would enjoy it.
If you answered yes to the above question, what would you call it? Room Designs by JB? I'm no good at naming things.
Do you like the idea of dragons being real? That would be so cool!
What is your least favorite food? Orangutans. Can you imagine trying to eat one of those? Gross.
Describe your relationship with Mical: Complicated. Does that count as an answer? She's a caring big sis, and I love her and am grateful for everything. She thinks I'm still fifteen. Not really, but she acts like it sometimes.
Do you think Davey is good? Of course. I don't know how anyone could think otherwise.
Are you in college? Yes, I'm studying electrical engineering, and am a year away from graduation.
Jonathan Benson (and Davey Blake) can be found in the novel Shrouded Jewels (soon to be available on Amazon, Lulu, Barnes & Noble, and Smashwords). Davey Blake can also be seen in Forgotten Memories.
Interview questions courtesy of Bonnie and Kateri. 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!
Significant Other: I know who I would like it to be. No, I'm not going to tell you. She might be reading this!
What is your strongest belief? There's some good in this world, and it's worth fighting for. (I admit, I stole that from Samwise.)
How do you like to spend your time? I don't really have a preference, as long as I'm with people who mutually care.
If you could go anywhere, where would you go? Backus, just because I like what Davey's told me about it.
What is your favorite food? Macaroni and cheese. You just can't beat cheesy noodles.
Describe yourself in one word: Flexible.
What type of music could you listen to for hours? Irish is pretty cool.If you could go anywhere, where would you go? Backus, just because I like what Davey's told me about it.
What is your favorite food? Macaroni and cheese. You just can't beat cheesy noodles.
Describe yourself in one word: Flexible.
Do you think that you should have your own TV show on re-designing rooms? Haha, I don't know that I should, but I definitely would enjoy it.
If you answered yes to the above question, what would you call it? Room Designs by JB? I'm no good at naming things.
Do you like the idea of dragons being real? That would be so cool!
What is your least favorite food? Orangutans. Can you imagine trying to eat one of those? Gross.
Describe your relationship with Mical: Complicated. Does that count as an answer? She's a caring big sis, and I love her and am grateful for everything. She thinks I'm still fifteen. Not really, but she acts like it sometimes.
Do you think Davey is good? Of course. I don't know how anyone could think otherwise.
Are you in college? Yes, I'm studying electrical engineering, and am a year away from graduation.
Jonathan Benson (and Davey Blake) can be found in the novel Shrouded Jewels (soon to be available on Amazon, Lulu, Barnes & Noble, and Smashwords). Davey Blake can also be seen in Forgotten Memories.
Interview questions courtesy of Bonnie and Kateri. 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.
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