Is _________ Stopping You From Writing?

What word would you put in the blank?

Fear?

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Doubt?

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Work?

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Time?

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Skills?

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Something I haven't mentioned?

When I began writing many years ago, I knew I wanted to write, but I didn't have the skills I believed I needed to pull it off. And I was 'write'. 

I knew nothing about developing a character, creating a scene, putting together 'believable' dialogue, getting my book published, marketing my book after it was published, or anything really. I just knew I needed to write.

My first short story was terrible. I still have it. The story reminds me of how far I've come. What I know is that not only did I begin on my writing journey, I've kept up with it since I was in my early 20s; I'm now 60. 

Am I perfect at what I do? No. Am I selling millions of copies each month? No. 

But I am a better writer, much better than when I began.

A relative of mine wants to write a book but he hasn't done it yet. Why? There are other things he'd rather be doing, I guess. And that's fine. But for the last few years, those 'other things' have been keeping him from doing what is still in his mind to do.

Tomorrow we begin a new year. And with a new year comes new goals and possibly a new direction for you. What will you do?

Will you write your first book?

Will you continue on to book two?

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Did you hear about this? [Update]

I will be the guest author at Two Authors, Books & a Beverage Club on January 4 at 7 p.m. I will be checking back frequently after that for the rest of the month to answer your questions about writing, publishing, and marketing.

Be thinking about the questions you'd like to ask me. Questions, such as: How long does it typically take you to write a book? What book is your favorite? How much research do you typically do? How do you choose your characters? How do you find a publisher? How do you know if you've found the right publisher for you? What is the most important tool for marketing? How much money do you typically spend on marketing? What have you done in marketing that has produced results? 

As Winnie the Pooh would say: Think. Think. Think.

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I have questions of my own that I have been gathering for you. Questions such as: What's the first book you remember reading? Have you read a book more than once? If so, what was the title? How many times have you read it? Have you read any of my books? If so, what one was your favorite, and why? How do you choose what books you want to read? Do you prefer to read one book at a time or several at once?

As a heads-up on the last question. Knowing my answer may prove valuable to you come January 4th. 

A couple of books at once is usually the rule for me, and typically a fiction book at the same time I am reading a nonfiction book so as not to confuse things.

So get thinking, and I'll see you soon!

Kathryn

5 Tips for Stressed Out Writers

You've probably heard the old saying, "Stressed spelled backward is desserts." What you may not know is what those desserts, or relaxers really are. Quite frankly, when I'm in a stressful moment I sometimes forget what works, it's only later when I have calmed down the hard way that I begin to think of the desserts that were there all along.

Here they are in no particular order.

1. Sip a nice drink. The drink can be whatever you want. I sometimes choose herbal tea.  

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2. Step away from the stress. Sit and meditate. Pray.

3. Read. Not your own work, but the work of someone else.

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4. Breathe in the scents of nature. Take a walk. 

5. Soak in a hot tub or "hot tub". Use a bath bomb or something else luxurious. I have the former, not the latter tub at my house.

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This is what I do, which may or may not work for you. The point is to take a break when you need it. 

5 Surprising Facts About Writers

Many writers are combo-deals. Some are extroverts, others introverts, and yet others are introverts who have become extroverts by doing what they fear. [That would be me].

Extroverts have no problem talking about themselves among strangers. "Did you hear about my latest book?" They have no problem speaking at writer's conferences or book clubs. In fact, they often put their name out there as a possible speaker candidate.

Introverts, while great writers are shy about their work. They know it's good but often use others to share what they've done so the spotlight isn't necessarily on them. Speaking up is difficult, and they shy away from the spotlight at all costs. 

Are you #4 or #2? or Both?

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Writers like people. No kidding. Yes, they like to write and they spend hours at the craft if they want to be any good. They also read voraciously. But the best writers get out from behind the computer screen every once in a while. They have to. For their own sanity and to drum up some new characters from watching readers like you.

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Writers like other things besides writing. It's not all about writing, revision, publishing, and marketing - the last being one of the hardest things on the planet for most writers. When writers are not writing they're doing many other things like hiking, biking, or even - dare I say it - cake decorating. I enjoy interior design myself and check out fantastic books on this subject at the library.

What do you think of this balcony space?

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Writers eat regular meals. They don't just sit at the computer every day drinking their favorite beverage and eating popcorn. They actually leave their post for a time to eat a family dinner or go out to eat. I am reminded of a teacher I saw once at the grocery store and how amazed I was that 'they' actually let her out of school.

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Writers - or most writers - do not get rich in their writing. For those just publishing their first book, their biggest dream is often to make the Best Sellers List. Writers who have been at it for a while see the truth. Just write the best way you know, market the heck out of it, meet people as often as you can, connect in a real way, and see what happens after that. 

Looks like a nice place to visit

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Books Make Great Gifts

Okay, you've more than likely heard that one before. 

Some of my fondest memories take me back to those times in my childhood when reading a good book was about as fun as eating a piece of chocolate cake. 

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I'm not kidding.

How else can you transport to the Land of Oz without leaving your living room couch? What else but a book can teach you how to train your cat, eat simply, travel to Mars, or teach you how to take a breather from a busy holiday season?

I love books. I have always loved books. Even when I couldn't read books I loved them. My mom tells me I would crawl to the bookshelf for what I wanted and crawl back with the next book I wanted to 'read'.

Now that I'm a writer, I have a greater reason to read. I learn a lot from other writers, though sometimes I have to turn off my writer brain in favor of just enjoying the story - ask any prolific writer and they'll tell you - it's difficult to read a book without correcting everything.

Still, with my writer brain shut off for a time, I can truly enjoy reading. And I'm happy to get books from others too. [hint hint].

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Just today I looked in the wrong drawer and saw one of my Christmas presents, yet unwrapped. Yes, it was a book, a book I wanted. Now before you get all huffy about me snooping where I shouldn't, I also need to tell you that I picked out the book. My husband picked out another for him. It's already wrapped. :)

I don't remember a year of my life when I haven't received a book for Christmas. When I was a teen, I began the Nancy Drew Mystery series and continued to receive the books for a few years for Christmas and birthdays. I love coffee table books, books of inspiration, and yes, even books that take me on a mystery chase. I love books of fantasy and science fiction, books that make me weep, stories that fill my soul with hope.

They say a writer writes what they read, what they hope for, what changes they would like to see in the world or in themselves. In writing, as well as in reading, we get a glimpse of the world as it is, and how we wish it to be.

Here's wishing you the dreams you hope for.

January Guest Author - Win FREE Books!

 

Yes, I will be the guest author on Two Authors, Books & a Beverage Club in January.

On January 4 there will be a live Q&A about me, my books, and my writing in general. If you're a reader you'll want to be there. If you're a writer in need of some new book, publishing, or marketing ideas, you'll want to be there.

I also co-own and operate Idea Creations Press, a publishing services company utilizing Print on Demand (POD) technology. If you have a question about publishing and what Idea Creations Press does, I can help you with that too!

I will be on Two Authors, Books & a Beverage Club the entire month of January, so drop on by and see what I am doing! Ask some questions, and win, win, win!!

Snowy day!

We received 12 inches of snow! 

How long did it take you to shovel your driveway this morning?

Are your trees doing this?

 

I Love This Book! LAST DAY FREE!

Do you mean to tell me you haven't read I Walked With Jesus: New Testament Stories of Faith and Healing From the Least of These?

No problem.

From December 16 through 18, get the eBook for FREE. 

At Amazon

I Walked With Jesus: New Testament Stories of Faith and Healing From the Least of These is a collection of stories based on Biblical text from the New Testament. I loved seeing these stories come to life. I thought the author did a fantastic job making me feel as though I was transported back in time to see how they all lived. Such an inspiring and faith-filled book. I enjoyed every single page.

I Walked With Jesus: New Testament Stories of Faith and Healing From the Least of These will be getting very well-deserved five-plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading Biblical Fiction. I would love to read more by Kathryn Elizabeth Jones in the future.
-Amy (GoodReads)

These stories are thought-provoking yet comforting to the soul. I can feel the holy spirit when I read them, and they help me reconsider stories I thought I knew. If you like 'Two from Galilee' or other books that bring Bible stories to life, you'll love these."
- Michelle Higham, author

"I love your book. I will forever remember all those stories in much more detail after reading this. The book is wonderful."
- Dorothy Crofts, poet

What do you do when writing your next blog post becomes a pain?

Ho ho.

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When I get feeling this way it's a good sign that I need to write something - anything - and hopefully something that is worth reading.

I have been thinking about my last book signing and the people I met there. Initially, I wasn't invited simply because they had another author they wanted. When the author cancelled, I was called. I almost said no. It's not always the best feeling in the world to be the second choice.

But something at the back of my mind said to do it. It was a bit painful to swallow my pride and go for it, but I'm glad I did.

And because I did, miracles happened.

Do you ever find yourself at the right place at the right time? And in that place, have you ever had others tell you that there was no mistake?

That's how I felt at this last book signing, amidst all of the crafters and sellers of homemade goods. I didn't sell out, but I did sell to some pretty terrific readers. And we had some pretty connective experiences together. You know the kind. It's like you've always known the person, not a 'significant other' person, just someone who is traveling the same road.

I was pretty blown away by all of the kind words, listening ears, and spiritually connective experiences. Even almost a week later, I sit here in wonderment and feel the need to thank you.

Thank you for supporting me in my work. Thank you for your kindnesses to me. Thank you for being an example of hope. We need hope right now more than we've ever needed it. And I thank you for not only talking the talk but walking the walk.

May your Christmas season be blessed.

Kathryn

Why Doesn't Book Marketing Work for Me?

I get it.

Why?

Because I am there myself.

I have tried the typical ways. Free books. Discounted books. Book signings. I have tried out-of-the-box ideas. Craft fairs. Hair salons. Book release parties from home. 

Are your books just hanging around your house?

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What I have found?

Book marketing doesn't always work out in the way I expect it to.

Sometimes I sell quite a few books. Other times I sell few to none.

Perhaps it's the current genre I write. Perhaps it's COVID that's keeping people away. Perhaps there's just too much competition.

When I get stuck on why book marketing doesn't work for me, I get stuck in other areas too. I get stuck finding new ideas to write about. I get stuck finishing what I've begun. I begin to spend my time doing other things that bring the results I want.

After all of the complaining about marketing and why it doesn't work for me when it is obvious it works for "her" or "him" I take a deep breath and try again.

I am a firm believer in moving forward even when it hurts. When the sales aren't what I expect. When I feel as if my marketing efforts have meant nothing and maybe I should hire someone. 

Or not.

Smile.

It's that time again to get out of my pity party and open my eyes to the options. 

How about you?

Are you ready? Holiday Boutique TODAY December 3!

Come and do some Christmas shopping at the Murray Senior Recreation Center's Holiday Boutique!

I will be there with many of my books, including my newest release, "I Walked With Jesus: New Testament Stories of Faith and Healing From the Least of These."

I will be offering a discount on all of my books!

Marketing Your Book Using a Slogan?

"Have you ever felt like one of the least of these?"

"Enlightened?"

I have used each of these slogans to market my books "I Walked With Jesus" and "Enlightened" but, unfortunately, I haven't used them regularly when it comes to social media. 

I have put my slogans on postcards to hand out
when readers ask about my book.
Not only is the slogan here but contact information. 

Readers like the connection with a book, something they'll remember. If they can't remember the title, they can at least remember the question you posted or the slogan that made them think. Great book marketing extends beyond the typical description of your book. A memorable slogan is like returning to a taster's table for the treat that really hit your taste buds the first time.  

"Enlightened" not only has a slogan on the back
but an additional insight on the front -
sort of a bullet list of what to expect inside

While a great tagline or slogan may not sell thousands of copies of your book [many authors do not have taglines and sell plenty of copies] your readers and potential readers will get a sense of who you are as an author and what you write by the taglines you use to market your books.

Businesses use slogans all of the time.

"Just Do It" is one example.

You may have heard these bookstore slogans:

A Bookworm's Paradise

A Novel Idea

For Booklovers

What you may have heard less of is an author using their own book slogan.

I have used a slogan for book signings. It's posted on a chalkboard easel. 

"Written a book?"

I love questions for slogans because it causes the reader to ask themselves the question being posed. 

Are you interested in gaining more interest in your book?

A slogan doesn't tell a reader what your book is about, it communicates emotion. It gives the potential reader an opportunity to look inside themself for an answer. Great slogans do more than connect two parties. They help readers to see what they'll be getting if they read your book.

When I think of the movie Shrek and the slogan, "Ogres are like onions!" I am reminded of all the layers involved in people of the less than green sort. There are many layers to individuals and many ways to reach them. To connect. To help them understand who we are and what we do. But mostly, to see themselves. 

Market your book using a slogan? What do you think?

FREE book on November 20! Today's the day!

Find me on Amazon! 

Get this eBook for FREE on November 20!

and enjoy some inspirational reading about Jesus and those who knew Him. 

Just my way of saying thanks to all of you!

Do You Think Your Book Will Sell? Two ways to improve your odds

Selling your book is a daunting task - especially if it's your first. 

Where do you begin? What is most important? 

While it's true that it helps, big time, to be a celebrity, or at the very least, well-known in your community, the truth is that most authors don't land big publishing houses and are about as well-known as the girl next door. 

We are just average folks trying to shine our light somewhere, trying to gain some interest, trying our best to sell a few books.

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So what do we do?

Share. 

I have learned from other authors, my local library, writer's groups, trial and error, writer's conferences, and more. Just watching people is a great way to learn about characterization. One thing I am doing soon is being a part of a new Facegroup group: Two Authors, Books, & a Beverage Club. I will be a part of the goings-on in January of the new year [2022]. So take a look at Two Authors and see if you'd like to take part. They are always looking for authors to interview!

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Participate.

Although we love to write, to sit back and tap the keys on our computer and dream up the next big scene, we can't always be stuck there, we must get up and be a part of the world. Another thing I like to do is to teach classes on writing, publishing, and marketing. In March of the new year [2022] I will be taking part in Authors in the Round at the Kearns Library. This will be a Saturday event held on March 12, sort of a mini writer's conference. If you'd like to join in and teach a class, please email me at: kathy@ariverofstones.com. I need answers by mid-November. WE NEED YOU! 

Thanks for reading!

Kathryn

Are You Making These 3 Common Writing/Marketing Mistakes?

We all make them. If we didn't, we wouldn't be human. But these 3 take the cake.

One: We believe that we can edit our own work. Sure, we can and should do the preliminary editing, but getting an editor to go over the final is a MUST. Can't afford an editor? Get someone (or multiple 'someones') to read over your work. I have used English teachers, friends with high editing skills, and other authors. Some editors see the small stuff like commas and periods. Others see the big picture and can find mistakes in your setting or plot, for example.

Two: We believe everyone will love our work and market to everyone instead of funneling our energy to those who like what we write. How do we find out who enjoys our work? Those who sign up for our newsletter will give us a great start. They subscribe because they like what we have to say, and they like what we have to write. 

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Three: Finally, we don't step up. We think we'll sell books just because they're in the bookstores or online at Amazon. It is estimated that 1.4 million self-published books (the number has more than likely increased since 2019) currently inhabit the book arena at Amazon? How will yours stand out? What will you do to promote your book? This is probably the toughest one of all. Getting seen. Getting known. But we have to do something. For a few months, I quit writing on my blog thinking it really didn't matter. It did. My readership, which had dropped to almost nothing, is reading again because I am taking the time to write something like this post.

It's up to writers, not publishers or readers, to have an edited book, to promote to the right readers, and to step up about their books. Sure, publishers and readers assist us in a big way, but it's up to us to get the book out there in the first place.

Five Tips For New Writers

Short but true:

Don't expect instant success.

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Write every day, yes, even when you don't feel like it.

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Take advice from others, but don't let it keep you from writing.

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Write what you love, but try new things.

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Never guess. I mean it. Research is almost as important as your next breath.

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