Love & First Wednesday News
Tina asked, “What’s love got to do with it?” Well, a lot. It’s not a “second-hand emotion" at all. So thank St. Valentine for making sure we all get a hug or one of those red paper hearts this month from those who love us and we love in return. Schmaltz? Of course, but it’s okay to go sentimental. I think of February as being a lot like December when the Christmas spirit makes people a little nicer and our hearts a lot lighter. Schmaltz. Schmaltz. Schmaltz. So here’s my Valentine's Wish to You.
May you love and be loved.
May you appreciate those loves in your life each minute you share.
Photo Credit: Prawny/Morguefile
On The Newsy Side
Kirkus Review posted The Most Common Reason A Book Gets Negative Reviews on the IWSG website. This article makes a great checklist, writers!
Last month, I posted on the Kirkus site, representing IWSG. The Hot-Wired Writer’s Brain: Managing Internet Addiction. Let me know what you think about it.
The next IWSG Pitch happens on March 27. Get those pitches ready!
And last…I’ve signed a contract with Evernight Teen. This will be my sixth book with them. I’m celebrating this as well as the release of Rattlesnake with a three digital book giveaway of Shattered. To enter for your copy email me at cleemckenzieATgmailDOTcom with SHATTERED in the subject field. Ends February 15.
And Now For The First Wednesday Question
The awesome co-hosts for the February 7 posting of the IWSG are Janet Alcorn, SE White, Victoria Marie Lees, and Cathrina Constantine!
Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.
Remember, the question is optional!
February 7 question: What turns you off when visiting an author's website/blog? Lack of information? A drone of negativity? Little mention of author's books? Constant mention of books?
Most of the sites I visit are upbeat, well-written, and relative. If I were to visit a site that was nothing but complaints of how rotten the world was treating the writer, I’d leave never to return.
I like hearing about authors’ books, so I enjoy reading what someone’s working on, submitting, or ready to publish.
Too much going on is a turnoff for me. Jiggling letters or flashing images (gifs make me dizzy). Pop-ups while I’m reading send me on to another more peaceful site.
Quote of the Month
“There is no remedy for love but to love more.” Henry David Thoreau
Too much going on gets to me as well.
Congrats on another contract with Evernight Teen.
Lovely Valentine's wishes.