C.C.Cole

On Strong Genders

2012-02-24T01:48:00.000-08:00

"Hercules"

"Eowyn"

Dark Fantasy stories often feature a protagonist or antagonist of significant strength. When this happens, the character is often counter-weighted by a weaker character, at least in the physical sense. The one that needs protection brings out the strength and soft spot of the stronger characters.

Many stories contain strong male and female lead and/or supporting characters, but can both genders both serve as leads? I haven’t seen that often, especially in mainstream novels like legal thrillers or murder mysteries. While it makes an interesting story to have a strong male protagonist and a strong female antagonist and vice-versa, can it be done and still keep the characters truly equal? Perhaps a better question is can it be done and the characters are equal in strength, that doesn’t necessarily mean physical strength?

We know biology. And while we females can complain about the lack of strong female characters in stories and films (at least this female does), it’s difficult to ignore the fact that men are physically bigger and stronger. And from a completely female-sexist viewpoint, such males aren’t so bad to look at. While I don’t have a problem with strength in male characters, it is a cliché tried and true.

How about strong females? To me, there’s a bit more room for extrapolation due to fewer clichés and a variety of ways to make a female “strong.” The same could be applied to male characters, but for females, unless you’re writing a “manly woman” (Xena the warrior princess) there needs to be something the female has to give her an advantage; special abilities, as I do with Shevata, special intelligence (so not Shevata), and/or a surprise element, showing the reader that a woman is every bit as capable of bravery as any man.

Can a woman be tougher than a man and both are protagonists? I think so, and so do my readers. With my recent review of “The Hunger Games” I think it’s been pointed out in bestsellers. Though I get some criticism for not developing my male characters more, the Gastar novellas are tight, action stories about a single character whose actions are inspired by the supporting characters around her. My mom tells me Shevata always has a male sidekick. Perhaps she’s right; a little backward spin off old “Dr. Who” episodes with an attractive female accomplice isn’t so bad. I agree with Suzanne Collins on that particular point.

On the Concept of Titles

2012-02-23T02:33:00.001-08:00

"Snatch"

Many writers write about how to title books and name characters. I do find most of these articles helpful; as when I completed my first novella “Act of Redemption” I found myself struggling with character names and stumped with a title. On a radio show I was asked how I came up with the name Shevata (shee-VAH-tah). I said what was I going to call her, “Barbara, Stacy, or Linda?”

A similar mindset for me went to the title. “Act of Redemption” was I grasping at a title after I wrote the first draft, and after several content-edits, not a single editor had an issue with the title and commented favorably every time, therefore I went with it. While I struggled with the title, I knew I didn’t want to name it simply “Gastar.” Though it makes since to name the city, and many stories are named in this manner, I preferred it as a series title to a book title.

Some writer-experts recommend conceptual titles, like “Act of Redemption” or “Game of Thrones” (that’s me at 3am having the gall to mention my book with Martin’s in the same sentence, it’s rare). It’s understandable that a title using a concept would be more appealing, but to me is more difficult and could sway one way or the other to a potential reader what the book is about. For example, when my wayward first publicist sent my book to a fundamentalist religious group because of the word “Redemption” in the title. Obviously, as I wrote in the past, that was an epic-disaster. I like conceptual titles and use them, but I’ve learned the hard way to use them carefully.

What about writers using good old-fashioned nouns as titles? There may be less mystery, but there’s also less confusion. For example, M.R. Mathias’ “The Sword and the Dragon.” Hey, this book must be about a sword and a dragon. Not much mystery, huh? But that can be advantageous, because the title identifies the genre and the general content of the book. Another clever simple title to me is “Bushfire” by Paul Anthony. He leaves a bit of mystery there; something’s on fire, it’s an international crime novel, and only a few seconds of thinking tie together ‘bush” and “fire” one quickly sees unhappy drug dealers low on product.

As for titles, in the long run, I think of them like I do character names. When I chose the name Shevata, I practiced something in my house. (I really did this, in case anyone thinks I’m weird, it’s certified now). I named my coffee table “Charlie.” When I dusted it, removed my husband’s computer from it, I called it “Charlie.” After about a week, it stopped being a coffee table and became “Charlie.” That’s what happens to me with titles and character names. Whatever you name them, that’s who your characters become and what your story becomes. Regardless, a title chosen by the author is every bit as part of the story as the story itself, so a memorable story makes for a memorable title.

On Hunger, Hype, and Harm

2012-02-19T17:38:00.000-08:00

Finally I finished “The Hunger Games,” the bestseller, widely acclaimed, widely sold, widely hyped novel, with an upcoming more widely hyped film in the next few weeks. Considering that this is one of the first downloads in my kindle back when the devices cost three times more than they do now, I’ve only now brought myself to finishing it. It’s been so long I can’t recall what sparked my interest, probably something from Twitter. I put it down at least twice, but finally, I gave this bestselling book the chance any bestseller deserves. I will exclude spoilers, considering the upcoming film.

With my typical last-to-hear the biggest news, I solicited a few YA book reviewers for my first novel “Act of Redemption.” A young lady emailed me informing me of her disinterest because she couldn’t stand any more dystopian fiction. Hmm…I thought. More dystopian fiction? Whatever could she mean by that? I re-read the back cover of my own book, describing the fallen city of Gastar. Uh-oh. Am I unoriginal? I see more discussion of dystopian fiction in social networking. What am I missing? Ah, now I know. “The Hunger Games.” Slick move, C.C! Though my own series follows a different storyline, I can see how one would read a synopsis and think “Hunger Games Redux.”

The reviews of “The Hunger Games” are interesting. One reviewer on amazon stated if anyone puts this book down, then the reader is a corpse. Wow. I put it down twice. Corpse, huh? Might be a new look for me. That’s like a newspaper that said author Jonathan Franzen could tell the future. One’s got to love the enthusiasm, but this kind of hype elevates expectations to the point audiences sometimes get turned away. I like favorable reviews as much as any writer, but to demean other readers if they don’t worship it doesn’t do as much a favor as pointing out the message of the author’s work.

“The Hunger Games” is not a bad book; and honestly, I’ll say it’s a good book; to me it’s overall four stars. It features a heroine named Katniss, whose bravery shines throughout the story, eclipsing her male almost-love interests. The society has groups of people divided into districts that must go out and hunt for food, and if selected, the young ones, compete against each other televised, called “The Hunger Games.” The action speeds up toward the ending, (thank goodness, got it the fourth star from me), gives the reader some surprises and innovation by the characters, and leaves the reader with interest for more, as would be favorable in a series.

A critical reviewer who gave it three stars had the same complaint I had: Why did the society do this? Is this futuristic society just mean and enjoy watching kids kill each other as entertainment? What happened to the acting industry? It’s also clichéd a bit; the dystopian world is the end product of ill-fated deeds of a prior civilization (never seen that since Planet of the Apes.). The reason I believe I put it down so many times is that, to be fair to Collins, some horrors people really don’t want to face; such as serious food shortages and eating entrails of animals. People in some parts of the world still live this way, and Collins reminds us of this in her work and makes us appreciate what we have.

So readers, check out “The Hunger Games.” If you can get through the first couple of chapters, then the rest is a smooth, good read. I’m curious about the film and may check it out. Comparatively, amongst bestsellers I’ve reviewed, is it better than George R. R. Martin’s “Game of Thrones?” Martin’s work is a massive epic, Collin’s is a story, and so I consider them different types of books. Yes, Martin hits it out of the park, but Ms. Collins is no shabby writer.

On the Value of Entertainment

2012-02-19T06:10:00.001-08:00

"Raiders of the Lost Ark"

Following a typical argument with my older brother (whose personality is known as Zermon in my Gastar novellas) I began to think about the entertainment industry. Like many others, he gets frustrated with high profile celebrities using their recognized faces and voices to enter our homes to “teach us something,” as if we little people can’t figure important issues out for ourselves, such as current events.

My counter-argument with him is the same one I have regarding the lives of writers: People have their work and their lives; one doesn’t always overlap. Let’s pull away from entertainers for a moment: Have any of us ever worked with a competent colleague but disagreed with him or her regarding some topics? Does opinion of world events impact a person’s ability to do their profession, be it software salesperson, auto mechanic, plumber, doctor, or hair stylist? I don’t think so. Why would it be different with entertainers? Answer: Because they’re given a public voice.

Now let’s move to why entertainers are given such a large voice. Generally, they are respected for the work they’ve done in the industry. Because so many see them via films or television, they are a ready-source for something newsworthy, be it about their life or their opinion. All the media has to do it attach their face or voice/quote to the story, and presto, ratings and sales! Ask the tabloids; they’ve made good livings off entertainers for decades.

Thanks to the media and perhaps attention seeking by some (not all) of we see the lives of entertainers: The designer wardrobes, the Vogue spreads, the mansions, the private jets, and the red carpet events. The beautiful people, as many say, smile for pictures for us to choose who wore which dress the best. They’ve got it all, the success, the respect, the money, the clothes, what else could one want? Are celebrities overvalued? Perhaps. Are they overpaid? Perhaps. Is this an easy life? I’m not convinced it is; because after so many millions of dollars, one can buy, buy, buy, but some of the most important things in life cannot be purchased: Love, friendship, and privacy.

And there it is; we value entertainment. Our eyes are drawn to entertainers because we like what they do in the industry in which they work. We respect their talent. We like their films, and we enjoy their songs, we are drawn to their beauty. Guess what new authors: we are part of the industry as well, though, speaking for myself, I’m a quantum in comparison (quantum being the smallest unit of measurement).

When all is said and done, to whom do the beautiful people answer to? Answer: The same people we authors answer to; our audiences. J.K. Rowling would not be rich and famous if her audience did not purchase the “Harry Potter” books. The entertainment industry is a tough one, because nobody stays on top and at one time or another their audience will speak back to them. Entertainers walk on hazardous ground if perceived to be condescending to their audience. Ask fans of country music or daytime television. Facing a public downfall with a merciless media cannot be an easy experience. I think about that on vacations; the only time I ever pick up a “Star” magazine.

Radio Moment: The Sean and Simon Show

2012-02-18T08:39:00.011-08:00

It’s always fun to meet younger people with the enthusiasm only youth can produce. It’s not that growing older is a bad thing (though I miss my young hair), to me it’s like a microscope: When we’re young, we focus with the broad lens, and as we learn through years and life experiences, we re-focus into narrower details, and if we’re fortunate enough to become wise, (wishful thinking on my part) we’re in oil immersion (for my microbiology friends out there) for the greatest magnification.

Now I’d like to hand my blog space over to a couple of good fellas, with youthful passion regarding world events, humorous dialogue, great music, and an all-around good time.

And, as an American from the Deep South, I love their accents.

First of all, I would just like to say thanks so much for this opportunity C.c! We appreciate it! You're most welcome, guys!

What is your show's name?
We are ‘The Sean and Simon Show.’ We have 2 weekly podcasts (‘Squeezebox’ and ‘Fill Me In’) which can be found on our YouTube channel- http://www.youtube.com/user/TheSeanandSimonShow?feature=mhee and we have a live broadcast once a week on http://www.nusu.co.uk/nsr Thursday 12:10-13:30

What is your show's focus (entertainment, news, entertaining news, etc)
‘Squeezebox’ is primarily a comedy show, with several funny features which mainly pit mine and Simon’s debating skills against each other in an entertaining way.

‘Fill Me In’ is a more topical show, drawing on the idea that we aren’t just all about comedy. We intellectually debate and discuss issues, which we feel are important in today’s world. We aim to make ‘Fill Me In’ come across as an intellectual show; however, we still include elements of satirical comedy to lighten some of the heavier discussions.

Our radio show is much like a toned down version of ‘Squeezebox’ with music. We include comical features to entertain the listeners as well as some of the best tunes the world has ever seen. FACT. We try to keep it at around a 50/50 split, but we love the sound of our own voices so much, we may revise this in the future!

When did it start?
We had the idea for the show many months ago. We first intended it to be just the radio broadcast. However, upon recording the demo (which can also be found on the YouTube channel), we gathered momentum and gained a lot of support. We decided to start the podcasts in the event that the radio didn’t have a space for our show- as it goes, they did, and now we have both.

Who's on board with you?
Well of course, as a duo, we have a lot of family members and friends who are interested. However, I was really astounded to see quite a few people who we had lost touch with in the past be really supportive and get involved. It’s really opened my eyes as to who my real friends are. Everyone’s been really great though; my family, The Collaborates and even some friends who I would have least expected.

Have you done radio/video before?
My only experience of something like this was the ‘EmWrites Team Tumblcast’ that was done for the promotion of an author a while back.

Where would you like the show to go long-term? Say a year from now?
Personally, I would be very interested in doing radio as a career, but I know Simon isn’t. However a year from now we would like to have an established weekly show with many more listeners and fans! It would be great to have a bit more involvement in the student radio as well.

What's your favorite topic?
My favourite feature is ‘Squeezebox’s- Make Simon Laugh’. There have been mixed reviews on Simon’s laugh, but I find it hilarious. What I love even more is the articles and stories I find to make him laugh each week! I really like the contrast between ‘Squeezebox’ and ‘Fill Me In’ though. Whilst we may come across silly in ‘Squeezebox’, ‘Fill Me In’ allows us to demonstrate that we aren’t brain dead and just looking for laughs. We genuinely are opinionated folk with the education and intellect to back it up. Furthermore they both appeal to different audiences, so, much like our personalities, we don’t alienate anyone who is interested in our shows.

Are you featuring guests?
Haha! This is something all my friends keep asking me. We hope to in the future, but initially, we want to provide our audience with consistency and familiarity. Ironically, I think this is what encouraged the reformatting of the show after episode 1. We wanted to provide the listeners with a solid format which balanced durability with entertainment. I reckon we nailed that by epidode 2 for now, anyway.

TheSeanandSimonShow's channel

www.youtube.com

A weekly show of juvenile comedy and petty debate, with an eclectic mix of our (and your) favourite music. Email seanandsimonshow@hotmail.co.uk Website http://theseanandsimonshow.tumblr.com/

On Children in Dark Fantasy

2012-02-16T19:20:00.000-08:00

"Pan's Labyrinth"

As I wrap up the launch of “Every Child is Entitled to Innocence,” I’ve been thinking how often children are used in dark fantasy stories. Let’s make it easier: How often are children not in dark fantasy stories?

To be fair, dark fantasy hardly needs to include children as main characters. Many new vampire stories contain adult themes and “YA” is not translation into “pre-adolescent.” Another notable way to look at the use of children in stories would be non-dark fantasy, as in “Atonement,” where seeing events through a child eyes led to tragic results.

As I think back to my own childhood, in terms of fantasy I think of it as a time of adventure, which makes sense for inspiration for writing. As children we see fairy tales as more than just weird creatures; it’s more real to us then than when we’re adults. Along with a sense of adventure and imagination comes an eagerness to learn and experience new things; as children we have yet to learn the consequences of our actions that define us as we grow up.

Childhood is also a time of great happiness. I heard a celebrity say once “When I was a kid, I was poor, but didn’t know it.” That struck a chord with me; I knew I was poor but it didn’t bother me. Lots of kids are poor and it wasn’t considered anything to be embarrassed about, we were just poor. Poor kids in the country, at least where I grew up had few interactions with wealthy kids, so there was no one to be jealous of. Nobody at school asked me “what my Daddy did,” everyone knew everyone, so such topics didn’t come up. Also, we make some of our closest friends when we’re kids. I have friends today I’ve known since I started grade school.

Childhood is also a time of great sadness. I’ve known a few people that seriously say they wish they were a kid again, but it’s not a road that I want to re-travel even if I were in a completely different situation. There’s social awkwardness, shyness, self-esteem issues, and dealing with loss; be it a pet or a family member. Loss is tough for kids.

But while life can be tough for kids, let’s not forget the resilience of children. A child can get through a sleepless night of parents fighting and go to school making straight A’s and never say a word. Children run high fevers due to common illnesses and recover within hours. While many kids from troubled households move on to troubled adulthoods, many others move on to happy productive lives and take care of the parents that took care of them.

In creating dark fantasy, the experiences of childhood translate into bravery, happiness, sadness, friendship, and resilience. All the makings of heroic protagonists stem from what is experienced in our youth. Parts of our childhoods linger with we new authors as we continue to create our stories.

Review of “Every Child is Entitled to Innocence”

2012-02-13T19:32:00.000-08:00

“Every Child is Entitled to Innocence” is a group of brief stories, from Dr. Niamh Clune and her colleagues creating a beautiful blend of youthful experiences from various directions. It’s a celebration of what’s great about childhood, the discovery of love and friendship, and a reminder of the difficulties about childhood, the discovery of fear and hardship. This book will make you smile and tear up at the same time because people came forward to share their experiences in hopes to help children with the proceeds in the future. Five stars!

http://www.orangeberrybooks.com/
http://www.blogger.com/@CHIamsterdamhttp://www.childhelplineinternational.org

On Character Deaths

2012-02-12T05:48:00.000-08:00

"The Omega Man"

"Ben-Hur"

"The Terminator"

In Dark Fantasy, if there’s anything that strikes the readers, it’s who will make it and who will not in the dangerous adventure. We want to see the good guys make it and the bad guys get what’s coming. But does it always have to be good-guy-lives and bad-guy-dies? What about the larger message carried in many dark fantasy stories, that good is achieved only by great cost? What characters will the writer sacrifice to make that cost?

I was talking to a reader recently who told me to stop talking and start writing my third novella in the Gastar series. When I commented on finding out which characters make it in the series, she looked at me wide-eyed. “Don’t mess with my fantasy.” Then she walked off.

Hmm…as I ponder that encounter, some interesting questions entered my mind. As we dark fantasy writers create our worlds, we are creating the fantasy of our readers. Our stories translate into their minds, so each reader sees our story a little differently. That makes sense when I’m reading fantasy; I get fixed in my own mind what I’d like to see happen, especially when it comes to the demise of key characters.

Protagonist deaths to me are probably some of the most difficult to write and most difficult to sell. Who wants to see the good guys die? But they do, and to being a dramatic element of self-sacrifice to stories, as in non-fiction, add depth and emotion. In dark fantasy, we often see protagonists return by reincarnation, regeneration, or in another form. Generally, killing the main protagonist requires careful crafting to keep from killing the hope of the reader.

Antagonist deaths give writers a wider breadth; sometimes they redeem themselves by giving up their lives. Others die with the same bravery as the protagonist, not backing down even at the end to create a dramatic unforgettable scene for the reader. Amoral antagonists deaths are what the readers are looking for, not so much the victory of the good guy, but the defeat of the bad guy, in in some creative way that makes us smile when it happens.

So again, go forth, new authors, and create some great dark fantasy for us to enjoy. We feel the mixed emotions of the protagonist, the respect for redeemable bad guy, the dislike for amoral characters, and hatred for turncoat traitors. However you craft it, it’s OK. Make we the readers feel it. That’s what we’re looking for, so we can appreciate our return to reality.

On Dark Fantasy Love

2012-02-09T17:18:00.000-08:00

"Young Frankenstein"

As I ponder “Dark Fantasy” and “Love” here goes a torrent of examples one cannot hope to address in brevity. We can go from Vampire love to Frankenstein love and not even begin to approach Ghost love, Werewolf love, or even Zombie love (is there zombie love?).

A psychologist told me many years ago that “the opposite of love is not hate. It’s indifference.” When I think of my relationships in the past, I couldn’t agree more. We want to hurt people we hate. We actually hurt people we love. We ignore people we feel nothing for.

On further analysis on how love can be used in dark fantasy, there’s little variation on how one would use romantic love in any other setting. A teenage girl falls in love with a sparkly vampire like she could fall in love with the star quarterback. A nurse could fall in love with a doctor she works for even if he’s building a monster instead of treating patients. Swamp monsters fall for beautiful blondes in old monster films.

Romantic settings move our characters in ways few other emotions can; from love hate, jealousy, charm, and narcissism. Any character, be it animal, monster, vampire, werewolf, ghost, or human is vulnerable and there are few defenses. By developing love interests we develop the characters and show the reader what lies behind the motivations of his/her deeds, human or not.

Flipping the coin on the other side, the lack of love, meaning the amoral character, also can stand out as clear as the presence of love. The prototype is a serial killer, but any monster that lives off the lives of others, for example, in many vampire stories (Dracula) the lack of love develops a character to the same depth when crafted against those who value life and feel love.

I’ve been criticized for not having enough love interest in my first novella of my four-part series. But sometimes love takes time, and may arise from places unexpected to the reader. As a writer, speaking for the joy of writing, it’s sometimes pleasantly unexpected to authors as well.

“The Window”

2012-02-09T01:33:00.000-08:00

Fact-based:

Joe hated evenings after school. Every night re-wound to the night before; his drunken mother yelling at his drunken father with he and his younger sisters to stay cautiously out of the way as they threw furniture. Some nights were so bad he slept outside. Out in the middle of the country, who cares? Who’s going to see anything?

Mornings were better, because usually his father was gone already, and probably wouldn’t be back for a week or so after a big night of yelling. His mother was asleep, so after helping his sisters get ready for school, they jumped on the bus with smiles. As a star seventh grade football player, school was a good place. And the food wasn’t so bad.

He liked the girl that sat in front of him during homeroom. Her name was Sarah, and lived down the road from him. Sometimes he offered her a seat on the bus, and she accepted if there were no empty seats. She never spoke much to anyone, but she made A’s all the time and never took a book home.

One night while his parents were yelling he sneaked out and walked to Sarah’s house. He knew he’d get a beating if caught, but as drunk as they were, his parents were unlikely to notice anything. As he approached Sarah’s house at dusk, only a couple of lights were on inside. Outside the grass had grown up a least a foot deep with a rusted lawn mower buried in the front. The front porch had a broken swing and a rocking chair about to fall apart. Then he heard yelling from inside.

Frightened, he cautiously walked around to the side of the house and found a window to peek in. It was Sarah and her sister’s bedroom; both of them were in bed trembling with the covers pulled over their heads. He could hear the shouts of a man and the cries of a woman in another room. Furniture sounded like it was being thrown around somewhere in the house. As well as he knew yelling in adults, these people were not drunk. No slurred words and no stupid stuff, this sounded like hate.

The door to the bedroom burst open; Sarah and her sister sat up. A man threw the woman inside and shouted for all three to get in a corner. As they cowered helplessly crying, the man slammed shells into the magazine of the shotgun with so much ferocity he missed and some of them spilt onto the floor. Foam spewed from his mouth like an animal. Joe’s eyes widened as the man pointed the gun at the woman and the girls. Then he suddenly hesitated, dropped the weapon as he cursed, stomped out of the house, slamming the door and drove off.

The next morning Sarah sat in her usual place quietly, getting up first as usual to turn in her pop quiz. When the bell rang to change class, Joe said, “Do your parents fight?” She nodded. He said “Mine do too.” Not looking back at him, she picked up her books to go to the next class.

http://www.orangeberrybooks.com/
@CHIamsterdamhttp://www.childhelplineinternational.org

Zorro Returns!!

2012-02-07T04:37:00.000-08:00

I want to welcome author Stella DeLeuze back to my blogospheric space as she brings us another humorous chapter in the life of her extraordinary roommate Zorro. Please check out Stella's work at:
http://wordsbystelladeleuze.blogspot.com/

"Zorro"

From Zorro's diary: The ugly creature goes bonkers

Life as an iguana can be rather confusing; I have no idea what's going on, but believe you me, my walking feeder is up to something. For many changes between me being awake and asleep, she has been moving around a lot. Very suspicious. She never does that. When she doesn't stare for hours at the thingy in front of her, she'll either leave and not come back for ages or she'll pester me with her funny noises and lures me down from my high look-out with delicious treats. She's brought different ones, by the way and boy, they are just melting in my mouth. I can't get enough of them.

So back to her moving about. Every time when I open my eyes, she's changing her house. Not that I care a lot, as long as it doesn't involve me getting touched, she can do whatever she wants. But I'm curious, so I crawl a bit closer and sit right in front of the unseen barrier and yet again, bang my nose at it! Never mind, I just want to see what's going on. At this moment, she's holding items that magically disappear when she bends forward. Surprised, I stretch myself to see a bit better, but it's gone. How interesting!

Uh, oh, no! I shouldn't have come down here; my lower hangout is only good when she's not around or sitting in her usual place. Now she's making the funny noises again and putting the extension of her inside my house. I wonder if I can warn her off by trying to sink my teeth into her flesh. No, she'd be too fast for me, pulling back again. Instead I close my eyes. It'll be over soon, it'll go away in a tick! But, oooh, I like it. Damn, she really knows what I like; my eyes were a bit itchy and I do love a good head rub, especially if it takes off the old skin. I've tried to get rid of it, but it didn't work. I could also do with something to drink. I'm thirsty. Maybe she'll make it rain again? Carefully, I squint through my half-open eye. She has moved onto my cheeks. Man that is good. Seriously good. Relaxing, I lean into her extension, so much, that I almost fall off my seat when she suddenly pulls away. Hey, you! I think. Don't stop! I could do with a bit longer. As much as I loathe her, she definitely gives me the best green stuff and treats and her massages are pure iguana heaven. And then it starts to rain heavily. I blink and wait. The rain moves over my head and I stretch out my tongue to drink. Gee, I'm so thirsty and the temperature is perfect. When I have enough, I hurry up to my higher hangout. From experience, I know she'll not pester me for the time being and probably will make more things disappear, I'll watch from here and see what happens.

Her house changes constantly, what's worse is that another ugly creature has joined her. I know him; he once gave me some green stuff to eat when the female wasn't here for a longer while. It was the most peaceful time, I must add. Didn't even feel the urge to bite him and he didn't put his extension in my house to touch me. I'd say we got on well. Never mind, now that he's here again, I'll observe everything carefully.

But what is going on? They'll became rather hectic and when her house starts to look almost empty, she comes over to mine. No! You don't, ooh no! In panic, I try to squeeze myself into the corner, as far away from her extension as possible. Not that it would help, she reaches out and I try to bite, but I'm just an iguana and she's bigger and stronger than me. I struggle ¨C to no avail. Then I hold still, just wishing to get back into my house and relax. Seems I've made the plans without her as she ¨C against my expectation ¨C drops me somewhere unfamiliar. Then it goes dark. Hey! Let me out of here, I think. How rude it that? I can hear them exchanging funny noises. Doh, I'll show you what I'm made of. I scratch a bit here and there, everywhere where brightness streams in, but there's no way to escape. Deflated, I decide to rest for a while to gather some strength. Suddenly, I rip open my eyes. Blimey, what's that thundering noise? It's so damn unfair; I really want to sneak a peek, so I start scratching again and there, finally, is a way out. Hah! They're so busy, they don't even notice.

What the heck? I really don't like what I see: they're ruining my house! Mesmerised, I stare at what resembles my home when I find myself airborne and in the dark again. I didn't pay attention, too shocked was I about being made homeless. Confused, I try to orientate myself when I'm dazzled and blindfolded in the next second. What is wrong with her today?

Again, I struggle and try to free myself, but she holds me tightly. To add to the disaster, she's moving around with me. It's getting cold and my tail knocks against something, then a bang and another, different, noise. Breathing heavily, I try to make out where we are. After ages she sets me free and removes the blindfold. Gee! I don't know this place. And the other two ugly creatures are back, too. Ah, I see parts of my house. Would be good if they put is together as quickly as they can, because first it's not really warm and second, I want my peace back. Oh and I could do with something to eat to.

Resigned, I drop myself somewhere comfy and watch the hustle and bustle. After a while I can't be bothered anymore and just close my eyes to drift into a dream with many beautiful ladies, lots of food and plenty of sunshine. Ah. There, that's better.

Review of “The Cahokian” by Zoe Saadia

2012-02-06T18:19:00.000-08:00

I found “The Cahokian” to be a great read! This book opened cultures I’ve rarely visited in fiction or non-fiction reading, exposing a brutal clash of people sparing the reader few details. The prose-driven story is big on detail and small on animation, and to me a reasonable variation in which to create an adventure novel with historic backdrops. I found the book fascinating from the first page and recommend it highly to readers that favor a treat from mainstream templates, paranormal romance, or dark fantasy stories. This fast-reading piece is interesting and enjoyable. Excellent work, five stars!

On Bad Little Girls

2012-02-05T20:32:00.000-08:00

"Serenity"

"Sin City"

When I began my own writing journey, I had no doubt in my mind that I would have a teenage heroine. An understandable assumption of an inspiration would be hits like “Buffy” and as a fan of Whedon’s work, I won’t argue. Little kick-behind girls like my character Shevata have been used and continue to be used in a variety of action stories.

Going back to non-fiction historical text, a young girl marked the books named Joan of Arc. As a non-historian as well as not being there, I’ll hold back remarks of the penalty given to her. But, regardless of opinion, she’s famous for bravery, and if she didn’t make an impression, I suspect she wouldn’t be conversation today. While I’m not convinced Joan of Arc is the primary inspiration for young action female characters, her history speaks for itself and is worthy of remembrance.

Where have we seen young heroines in fictional classics? The reflex answer is “Alice in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll. As kids, we remember the little cakes making her big and small, some of us recall the music of the rock group “Jefferson Airplane,” and we Burton fans know the recent film with over-the-top effects that made “Wonderland” wonderful in its own weird way.

Why do young girls make fun action characters? Answer: The obvious is their appearance of not being dangerous and the gratuitous unveiling of their abilities brings out our “rooting for the underdog” part of us for protagonists. As I’ve written before about protagonists, generally we like beauty and benevolence, while drawn into mystery that power from unexpected sources (like kids) brings us. Girls usually have a soft spot somewhere (romance, loss) that reels them back into humanity enough so audiences can still keep a sympathetic hold on them (as would apply to any protagonist, but clearly with girls). I do realize some of my readers are still looking for Shevata’s soft spot.

I’ve seen the criticisms of little girl action heroes as well. The obvious is: How can a fifty-pound girl drop a two hundred pound guy by kicking him? I don’t argue with that, other than it’s fiction. Also, to be fair to our gentleman friends, they have a point: Try taking martial arts and take down a heavyweight boxer. Good luck. I have much respect for all disciplines and the expertise in weapons was created for a good reason. But the element of surprise is very important in physical combat and its exaggerated use in stories and films adds to the fast-moving elements.

Bad little girls are not new in fiction, and I don’t think are going anywhere. They’re tried, true, fun, and hardly the only option out of the endless great choices for creating stories. But that’s what makes reading so great, sometimes a less conventional hero than the knight-in-shining armor packs a punch big enough to mow down the bad guys in short order. There’s nothing wrong with that, as long as the last girl is standing it’s fine with me.

Hey! That's me!!

2012-02-05T07:36:00.000-08:00

I'm being featured today on the Orangeberry Books Blog. Many thanks to Dr. Niamh Clune and her colleagues for taking the time to do this.

But the best part about Orangeberry Books is that it's not about a single author. Nobody is bigger than the group of us, and I believe that can be said with all writers. Think of what the classics left us with, unforgettable stories, and we may have favorites, but does one novel stand out beyond all for everyone? And the heavy-hitters these days, from Jonathan Franzen to Suzanne Collins, do any of them stand to shadow all other writers? No, because ultimately the readers decide, and it's our privilege of being authors we have something to offer readers, and it the ultimate joy of being a reader to experience what so many different authors give us.

http://theobblog.com/c-c-cole/

On The Inbox Wormhole

2012-02-04T07:45:00.000-08:00

As I’m continuing my writing journey and realizing my time in cyber-space is at least as consuming as my time on Earth, there’s always a place I fear to look, a place of darkness, like in “Dune.” Only I don’t have a poison needle and a cute actor sitting across from me as I enter this strange place. Like most people, I call it my Inbox.

Don’t get me wrong; I’m happy to get correspondence from friends and contacts I’ve made via social networking. The great part about my Inbox is the ease of transfer of wonderful literary creations or useful advice by the network experts. My Inbox has delivered everything from great books to fantastic beta reads; and the latter make me feel like I’m keeping the latest best secret.

For those of us listed on more blog/social sites than we care to think about, we know the voiceless horrors of our Inboxes. To be fair, for me this is over 90% self-inflicted. Sure, I’ve been to the sites to “compile” my updates, but as I increase my efforts, here come more updates! It’s truly an avalanche of information, and the biggest tragedy is lack of time of address each one to the extent I’d like to. A worse nightmare is an anticipated email landing in my spambox, which has led to more than one situation of “Grrss” at C.C.Cole (I’m screaming now).

Inbox hygiene is something that requires regular attention. The only way I’ve found to manage it is to either face the message or not face it at all, period. Leaving email crumbs to “get back to later” usually translates into “forget about completely” leading to thousands of either unopened or stagnant messages and an unclean environment. I go ahead and download any beta reads as soon as I get them. If I get bumped out of a group for lack of interaction, they get my vote too; throw that bum author C.C.Cole out.

As I close this post, what’s interesting about Inboxes for new authors is the wide variety of comparisons. What, even an Inbox can be creatively stimulating? Of course it can! If you’re a horror-writer, the Inbox and be a spooky hidden basement, a fantasy writer can create an opening to another word with talking critters, a dark fantasy writer can create another way into hell (what’s our deal there?), and a sci-fi writer can always use the prototypical wormhole.

On Little White Likes

2012-02-01T18:52:00.000-08:00

Author groups often post about the controversies of “Liking” fan pages, favorable book reviews, or “disliking” critical book reviews. As I mentioned in the article “On New Author Back Scratching” is this practice telling little lies or are doing innocent favors for struggling colleagues?

In my article, my suggestion was quid pro quo, since I’d been asked to Like so many pages via social sites. On hindsight, I wonder if further analysis will help address the above.

Let’s first think about what “Liking” a Facebook page means. Of course, with most all of social networking, there’s no precise definition, if there were, it would be “Orwellian” and not “social.” So if one Likes a page, such as a television show, does that mean that person watches it without fail, knows every episode, and would pass up any Superbowl featuring the New Orleans Saints to watch? Or is it a casual respect for the show, acknowledgment of its entertainment value and stop at that?

Now let’s move back to authors and books. You’ve heard of a book, familiar with it, network with the author, know the genre. Should you Like the page if asked? There’s certainly no obligation. What’s wrong, you don’t want to be a nice person? Who’s going to call you out if you choose not to? Will you be posted on a blog and blasted on a rant like some of the recent review/counter-review drama that’s recently happened? What are the consequences of perceived honesty/dishonesty, be it casual interest or comprehensive expertise?

So, to turn the wheel another way, let’s look at the new authors, like me. Should other writers/readers Like my page? Do they owe me? No. Am I going to come after he/she if a Like isn’t reciprocated? No, energy is better spent on most anything than spite. But what does it look like for potential readers when they happen to hit an author page and see very few Likes? Better question: Does Liking pages help promote books and lead to sales for new authors?

The muddiness of the article stems from the muddiness of the topic. In social networking, we don’t have an Emily Post, a Priest, or a Prosecutor. If one burps at a party, it may not look very nice, but unlikely would lead to an arrest. However, others may not want to hang around. That’s how social media works; if you reach out pleasantly, people reach back. If you pull back, only the non-conformists and the ones so big it doesn’t matter can make it and it really not matter. Though it’s up to the individual, it’s not all bad; who wants to be Like everyone else?

On Jailbait, Dragons, and Pantyhose

2012-01-31T19:48:00.000-08:00


While risking my blog following by posting another article about my past life as a role-playing gamer, the story behind it is a little more than the mere meeting of awkward kids at college that weren’t at frat parties. My introduction to role-playing games was early in high school, a time I call my “jailbait dating days.” Before I’m written off as an early starting wild-child hear (read) me out. From the third grade, I was sentenced to a lifetime of nerdom due to incurable nearsightedness with one sure thing: nobody would ever ask a girl out that wore glasses. Then my life changed at age thirteen. I broke my glasses. Then enter the new me with contacts! Not exactly “The Princess Diaries” (are you kidding? I wish!), but it put me in the lower-tier of the “pretty girls” at school by age fourteen. This gave way to several problems: I looked a bit older to some than I really was and the older guys weren’t smart enough to ask my age. Before writing my Mom off as reckless by allowing me to date at such a young age, she knew me well enough and I was always home by ten, and usually took my own car. So one night, on a typical double date, one of my loser eighteen-year-old boyfriends stood me up. What an outrage! And the reason? Playing a role-playing game? Out of the question! I answered by releasing the air out of a tire and tying pantyhose around the antenna of his car. I got home to my Mom on the telephone reassuring the guy’s father there’s no way I’d do such a thing. (Whew!) A couple of years pass, and loser boyfriend goes to college where my brother already is enrolled and works in the dorm. I tell him my stupid ex will be there and make sure he can find his way in and out the door. Which is exactly how they met. Ex shows up on college break at a fast food place where I worked with great news: My brother has become interested in his game! What! All I remember is chasing him with a shower of ice and fries. I end up at the same college, re-break up with the ex, and join my brother in the game. We had a lot of fun. But rules were nobody could ask me out without asking my brother. To me, it was moot, as any friend of his was un-cool, and totally ancient. Years later, I showed up for a guest appearance with a new group. My brother and I had a yelling argument about who-knows-what before I sat down to start. (Those of us with siblings understand our arguments have no audience). Afterward, I asked him who the cute guy was. Over two decades later, I no longer play role-playing games, but I know all too well where the cute guy is. We had dinner out tonight and celebrate our wedding anniversary soon. So my dark fantasy journey began from childhood fascination with monsters, medieval role playing games, jailbait dating, and pantyhose.

On Medieval Dark Fantasy at Its Finest

2012-01-31T04:16:00.000-08:00

After plowing through “The Sword and the Dragon” by ace author M.R. Mathias, I was swept in along with the rest of the masses of his fans into his world of post-Tolkien non-Martin medieval dark fantasy. Though this book has the elements of role-playing games, there is a story there, and not a simple one, but is a good one. There’s action, a love interest, magical rings, a magic sword, an evil wizard, and last, but not least, a dragon. Ah, and don’t forget the eggs! Literally. This book is great, because the story has all of the goodies we like in our memories of role-playing games, but it doesn’t feel like I’m rolling dice when I’m reading it. By combining a well balance of action, intrigue, family ties, and a love interest, Mathias has created a clever novel that’s hard to put down. Excellent work, five stars!

On Children’s Rights, Dark Fantasy, and Oranges

2012-01-29T09:18:00.000-08:00

Several months ago I was invited to a writers’ group; ultra-cool talented authors of various genres featuring together, tweeting together, and by the efforts of ace author Dr. Niamh Clune and several others have formed “Orangeberry Books.”

When “Orangeberry” was established, an inspiration was Niamh’s high-rated book “Orange Petals in a Storm,” a moving paranormal account of a child finding her way out of despair.

Now as I adjust the telescope to broaden and focus backwards in distance, I think how often the issues of the pain of terrible childhoods are written in a variety of genres. Reflex answers are classics “Oliver Twist” or “David Copperfield” by Charles Dickens. A recent example would be “A Girl Nobody Wants” by Lily O’Brien I reviewed recently.

Let’s move the telescope again and re-focus on my genre, dark fantasy. To keep my work at the most brevity, it’s obvious that my kick-behind heroine Shevata who was raised in a workhouse to be a war-child clearly doesn’t represent a protected loving family life. More recent dark fantasy mega-hits include “Harry Potter” a childhood where he grew up disdained by his aunt and uncle.

Now I’d like to pull away and hand my blog space over for a moment for this group of whip-smart, ace authors where it’s due, the upcoming “Orangeberry Books” and “Every Child is Entitled to Innocence.”

Every Child is Entitled to Innocence will be the first publication of the newly- formed Orangeberry Publishing Group. Due to release on February 14th, profits from the sales of this e-book will be donated to Child Helpline International.

Says initiator of the project, Dr. Niamh Clune, “I met many writers through the Internet that experienced difficult childhoods yet have overcome their brutal beginnings. I wanted to make the first Orangeberry publication a celebration of creative imagination. This powerful friend of damaged children plays an essential role in an abused child’s recovery. Gathering this series of stories was a joy. Orangeberry Books has developed special, vibrant relationships with contributors and has forged many lasting friendships.

We encouraged happy stories that reflected the innocence of childhood when infants feel wrapped in the warmth of loving arms. We wanted to contrast these with the sad ones, making them stand out in relief against a bright backdrop. We felt this comparison would demonstrate, without explanation, what happens when innocence is stolen.

In this book, the reader will find many wonderful, heart-warming stories; whilst the sad ones demonstrate the magnificence of the human spirit as it triumphs against all odds."

Executive Editor, Karen S. Elliott stated, “While I looked at all the stories in the Every Child anthology, I edited only a few. I thought it was important, for this tome, that the writers be able to express the heartbreak and joy of childhoods past without censorship.”

Spokesperson for Orangeberry Books, Niamh Clune, explained how The Orangeberry Group is at the vanguard of a new wave of Internet publishing companies. Orangeberry aims to put quality first and bring exciting, exceptionally talented authors to the reader’s attention. Its focus is not on commercialism, but on quality, beautifully written, well-told stories. Orangeberry will also publish poetry. A further aim of the publishing company is to bring a collection of exceptional artists from across many different art disciplines to collaborate on projects in a personal, hands-on, mutually supportive manner.

The motto of the company is, ‘Paying it Forward.’ The company relies on a well-developed social network, the dedication of the core team members, their talent and enthusiasm coupled with a socially entrepreneurial spirit. Supporters and members of this group will also benefit from on-line mentoring, a book-club, the Youth Tube Channel, and the OBBlog.

For further information visitwww.orangeberrybooks.com www.theobblog.com

Join the FB group @ http://www.facebook.com/groups/orangeberrygroup/

@CHIamsterdamhttp://www.childhelplineinternational.org

I hope readers/writers will embrace this every important disturbing issue about children and to visit the many talented authors at Orangeberry. I thank Niamh and her talented colleagues for giving me the privilege of featuring this important work here, and I’m honored to participate.

Rights for Children!! Hey, writers and readers out there! We know, we may not say, we may know we may not think because we don’t want to, but we know things happen to children through our childhoods; be it witnessed or experienced. Let’s bring the rights for children to the light in the fashion only writers and readers can. In this case, a cliché is spot on: The pen is mightier than the sword.

On The Dark Fantasy Confession

2012-01-28T07:57:00.000-08:00

"Perry Mason"

Like the old TV show “Perry Mason” everyone always admitted to his or her crimes and he never lost a case. At one time or another, dark fantasy writers have to face their accusers, answer these questions truthfully, and throw your destiny onto the mercy of your readers.

Writer, do you admit to being a lifetime nerd? Yes.

Isn’t it true that you and some of your awkward friends in college sat around a table and played role-playing games like you were some kind of medieval war heroes? Uh..yea.

Isn’t it true that you are completely familiar with a medieval role-playing game having memorized every rule in the Player’s Handbook, every creature in the Monster Manual, and have familiarity with the Dungeon Master’s Guide? Uh..not the DM guide.

Isn’t it true that you know the difference between a longsword, a shortsword, a bastard sword, and a two-handed sword, which is a bit unusual for 18-year old college girls? Uh..nod.

Isn’t it true that you used to roll dice with three sides, six sides, and 20 sides, and some of your friends carried these around in bags? I rolled other people’s dice. I didn’t have my own.

Isn’t it true that you shout expletives when you roll a “one” or a “double ought” or when you “lose initiative” and nobody knows what you’re talking about but your carb-consuming friends? Yes.

Isn’t it true that you played characters like elves and pretended to cast spells like some kind of wizard out of cartoons and kids’ books? I didn’t play an elf.

Isn’t it true that you carry an entire satchel of details about your character, including costumes, statistics about intelligence, looks, strength, and add “levels” as you continue to play in twelve-hour sessions? Not all were twelve hours. Most were just ten. I didn’t use a satchel.

And is it appropriate to assume you belong to a group in costumes acting out these fights in weapons and costumes? No. But you know what it is? Yes. So there! You do know it, and you know people that belong to it? Yes, but..

Isn’t it true that you’re completely familiar with “modules” like “Ravenloft,” “Fafhrid and Gray Mouser,” and “The World of Greyhawk?”

I didn’t play Gray Mouser or Ravenloft.

Isn’t it true that you know the difference between chain mail, plate armor, leather armor and the number of gold pieces it takes to purchase? I didn’t play characters wearing armor.

And last, but not least, Writer, do you have any clue whatsoever how to play the online game “WarCraft?” No.

Writer, admit to the readers that you are guilty, a former role-playing gamer, eternal nerd, and dark fantasy writer. Yes, sob.

Guilty as charged!

On Early Dark Fantasy Inspiration

2012-01-27T19:07:00.000-08:00

Barnabas Collins in "Dark Shadows"

Dark Fantasy, sometimes, I believe I was destined to write as a genre.

“Destiny” described in the pure sense, has no other factors, it will happen no matter what. So I can’t describe my current writing as destiny from birth, but I can from childhood.

I’ve written before how kids like monsters. We had little plastic dinosaurs from Sinclair gas stations in our windowsills. I could recite genus species of dinosaurs better before I started school at 5 than when it was required for school. Early nursery rhymes like Mother Goose had weird creatures that seemed cool. Any popular music on AM radio that featured any kind of critter was always a hit to us as we walked down gravel roads singing the lyrics of “Amos Moses” (Jerry Reed), “Swamp Witch” (Jim Stafford), and last but not least, “Werewolves in London” (Warren Zevon…I have this CD, love it) at the top of our lungs; fortunately so far in the country nobody could hear us.

While I was still preschool, the well known soap series “Dark Shadows” aired daily around 3pm. Missing any episode was unacceptable at our house. If the TV didn’t work, there was howling comparable to werewolves. When my brother and sister got off the school bus, I’d have the TV on and ready and be waiting for them up the road, egging them to hurry up and get to the house, “Hurry, Barnabas is on!”

When the old series aired again in the 1990’s, I watched it again from the beginning and never saw a more slow moving soap opera. How stunning adulthood can be, as maturity allows us to see what we once thought was genius we see again as boring. But to give creator Dan Curtis his due: Back in its day, he gave us a daily dose of low key horror with a center-character vampire, a beautiful blonde witch, historical backdrops, werewolves, zombies, ghosts, the scary “west wing,” and clueless main characters that would say “How could a door possibly open by itself?” When the witch Angelique built a house of cards and lit them to burn down a house somewhere, I decided to try it myself. I did get the house of cards built, but my Mom caught me with matches and corrected my non-witchcraft dabbling in short order with sharp words and a spanking.

As I look back on dark fantasy inspirations, it began very early in my life, though childhood poems, music, and television. Some of it may look cheesy today, but the history still speaks for itself. And considering the remakes of “Dark Shadows” not-so-bad in the ‘80’s with a Burton version I’ve heard is upcoming, I look forward to seeing Barnabas again.

On the Mathematics of Ads

2012-01-25T18:46:00.000-08:00

"The Social Network"

Times Square, NYC

Going back to some of my original articles about being a new author, I mentioned some of the non-cheap “promotion packages” offered by self-publishing companies who found my book so fascinating they didn’t need to read it. Being overly eager and overly stupid, I tried a few of these “fantastic, state-of-the-art” marketing programs. The end result was similar to what John Locke described in his “How to” bestseller; lots of bucks shelled out on my end and minimal book sales from their end.

When I look back at these “packages” wondering how many Coach handbags I could have purchased instead and put to better use, I remember the methods used. One was an “email blast.” On hindsight, this was spamming my work I actually paid for. Then I succumbed to temptation of social site ads. After paying for “clicks” for about six months, I had a full credit card and an empty sales account. When I decided I could hardly get any worse, I took on search-engine ads, with some strange hope that when someone surfs the Internet, he/she would somehow find my book and decide it looks so brilliant the day could not go on without purchasing it.

Only after epic-failing at every attempt at getting noticed, I started networking at small doses with gradual increases over time. After lots of dollars down the drain, I spent small, single-time sums on the right services for advice to get me started on blogging and Twitter. The results aren’t “sudden fame” but it’s a slow, steady, growing Internet presence all of us get as we use social networking.

Question: Why do ads fail for new authors? Why does the single tried-and-true method for selling pretty much everything else from real estate, lingerie, and diet soda not work for newbie writers? Ads come natural for big-name authors. Car insurance sells by clever commercials featuring a cute reptile. Wireless cell phone services are sold with obnoxious music. Beautiful women sell anything/everything. So, what’s the deal with books?

I don’t really know the answer to this question. I noted on “The Social Network” when they said, “Ads aren’t cool.” OK. If ads are so un-cool, why are they used to sell just about everything? The reflex answer is: “Ads look spammy.” OK. Ads look spammy. So how many handbags or computer gadgets are we purchasing with no knowledge about them from advertising? It’s no secret that big companies shell out the big bucks to sell their products, be it the food, clothing, film, or publishing industry for bestsellers. We live in a world of advertising, and rely on it for entertainment during the Superbowl, but for new authors, it’s truly a hard sell.

I find it interesting what we tag as value to consumption. It’s easier for Coach to sell a $900 handbag than for a new author to sell a $2.99 book. Of course, many reasons include competition and alternate modes of entertainment. Whatever the reason is, for new authors, if traditional routes of advertising works, that’s great. I don’t tell people what to do with their money, but I will say to be careful before stepping into the deep chasm of purchasing ads. The mathematics don’t “ad” up.

On The Love and Hate of the English Language

2012-01-24T20:21:00.000-08:00

"Inglourious Basterds"

As an American from the Deep South, I can say with 99.9% certainty that 99.9% of the people I grew up with speak only English. When it was cleverly pointed out in “Inglourious Basterds” how Americans tend to speak no other languages, I couldn’t help laughing at the plain truth. Sure, it’d been great as a kid to learn other languages before my southern drawl set in, but in those days and in the rural setting where I’m from, not only were other languages not taught, I don’t believe anyone thought about it. These days, I hope schools offer more languages for kids.

Like so many English-only speakers, the first language I attempted to learn was Spanish. I’ve been told it’s easy, and certainly useful when we meet Spanish-speakers who haven’t perfected English. So, believing I can do anything, I got a Rosetta Stone program. Now that I have the program, I can learn Spanish, presto, like on TV, right? Well, not so right. The Rosetta Stone is a great program and I became so proud of myself as I scored 95% on grammar and recognition. But then came the speech. Ouch. 25% at best. How embarrassing! Deep South dialects are tough to break, and I can’t roll R’s with “A Smith & Wesson pointed at my head,” as we say where I live.

Despite my vast hard science education, I do have some understanding of the difference between written and spoken language. To state the obvious, the written language stands out as the most important for any author, any language. In college as a focused, competitive student, English 101 was to me an afterthought and some kind of due punishment for those of us seeking higher education. When I began writing, I looked back and saw the shortsightedness of my youth.

Now as a writer, I love English. It’s my language; I love to read the words of others, and creating stories of my own. With all the negatives about the publishing industry, look at all of these great books! Sure, the ebook revolution spawned more and more books, is that all bad? I think not. We have more choices to read, and more options for new authors.

But yes, sometimes I hate the English language. But I don’t blame the language; I blame myself. Editors understandably see authors like me as lazy and failing to understand and follow basic grammar. Though I’ve improved, I’m not returning to college for an English degree (can’t afford it, otherwise I’d consider it). Why can’t I use so many semicolons? What’s so terrible about ellipses…? Who is the ghost that shows up in my computer at night and viciously types in adverbs I’m certain I didn’t write? As I strive to become more active in suppressing passive voice, I become more passive!

Writer frustration affects we new authors at many levels, from the first sentence to the last period of our work. But as I’ve written before, I’ll keep copy editors working, so that’s not such a bad thing. I don’t mind an editor correcting me, as I want to learn. I’m sure if an editor wanted to learn how to solve chemistry problems he/she could ask me. English is a great language, and I continue to work toward creating a story worthy of it.

On New Author Back Scratching

2012-01-23T15:27:00.000-08:00

As I continue to ponder over controversial topics involving new authors, there’s another issue moving amongst us in cyber-space. We help each other. It’s great. Features, interviews, Likes, and sometimes, depending on the author(s), we purchase and review each other’s books (not suggesting the latter’s a fit for all). I have a habit of doing what I want, so if I want to review a book, I buy it, read it and post a review if above two stars, if not email, as written before.

The question I have is, leaving out purchases and reviews, do the “Likes,” and features help with sales? What about interviews? I’ve done radio, blog and podcast interviews, but as a new author, it’s quite a dream indeed to be interviewed on a radio show then hit a bestseller list.

Let’s bring the question to something more specific: Tweeting. Does hyper-tweeting others’ books outside of reviews help? I love to tweet, so why not tweet about a colleague's new work? But, does tweeting about reviews help? If I forget to tweet a virtual friend, is that a betrayal? Am I making a battalion of on-line new author enemies by asking these questions?

I don’t consider myself any kind of oracle of answers to these questions, but the answers, if out there, are important for the new author. I don't mind doing favors for talented people. If we’re going the distance to do all this work for our virtual writer friends, will they “Like” and “Tweet” for us? Who gets the most results? Are we taking sales away from ourselves by using so much energy promoting others? Another question: Are we driving away our blog traffic?

Let’s turn the question around. I know writers that self-promote only. Sure, they may throw out a tweet or two for someone, but I had no idea a year ago that some writers on social sites say Hi, join the networking, and on twitter, tweet so much about themselves it’s like a Xerox machine. And one of them may be C.C.Cole! I never point out defects in others without also pointing out I may not be so different.

This virtual back scratching gets complicated quickly. I don’t consider myself outside of this loop; as I’ve checked out blogs and FB fan pages. But now, when asked to do so, now I expect a bit of quid pro quo. For months I found myself Liking FB pages from DMs on Twitter, and finally thought, “Hey, why can’t they do that for me?” So now, I ask. It’s hardly an obligation on the part of either writer. Ask me to follow your blog, I ask to follow my blog. I've never directly asked for someone to buy my books and haven't seen others do that often. "Check out my book" translates for most readers.

So, what’s to be learned from all of this virtual back scratching for the new author? I say quid pro quo for the simple things, such as a tweet, at least, sometimes. Check out a FB page and “Like” it. No biggie, these aren’t lies. You've seen the pages, you've seen the author profiles. False reviews? No. Joining blogs? Up to the author. Purchasing books? Totally up to the author, and don’t expect a return there; when one gets involved in money, that gets a bit personal, so tread lightly.

Promotion is necessary. New authors, in the beginning, your best friends are other authors. Some will get more mileage out of the promotion you give them. But that's life; it doesn't help to make on-line enemies. Plenty of people are available to provide that service.

On the Full Circle of Book Reviews

2012-01-23T10:59:00.000-08:00

Once again, at risk of touching the hot stove with this controversial topic, I’ve seen in authors’ groups and Tweep-writers a run on one/two star reviews following big features/giveaways done around Christmas. Some of them had great success leading to increased sales, while others are suffering the mental heartbreak of bad reviews over hard work they gave away for free with current slumping sales numbers. I didn’t participate in the programs (there were more than one), because of publishing issues out of my control. (Yes, it even happens with self-published authors).

I’ve made it no secret that I don’t post reviews under three out of five stars. Reasons: 1) I’m not a paid “professional” reviewer, just a reader

2) I see no gain for new authors by slamming their work in a public forum.

I do handle negative opinions by private email, which has worked out well. I learned this strategy by other authors/reviewers and follow their example. Also, as I wrote in “One of My First Reviews” I know all too well the heartbreak of my work being blasted in public.

Other reviewers often disagree with my strategy, saying that it looks like “puff” reviews and it doesn’t look “real” on sale sites like amazon because a well rounded audience has good and bad reviews (defining bad as two or less stars). I respect the opinions of other reviewers, as well as their right to say/write their opinion, like anyone else. But at the same time, I respectfully disagree with some of them. Not all of them.

I agree that reviewers should be honest, and reviews are subjective. But to rationalize that bad reviews bring favorable attention to your work, I respectfully disagree with those that say so. I’ll give my own books as an example: In “Act of Redemption” after several five-star reviews, including Midwest Book Review, one gave me two stars for something like “clunky prose and awkward pacing.” As an observer, its no big deal, but it slammed the door on my sales for the next several months. Let me clarify that it wouldn’t have been a blockbuster without the review, but it certainly didn’t help me get readers. We new authors have small audiences so small numbers affect small numbers, including a small number of negative reviews.

But lately, we’ve come full circle. Since the infamous Howlett on-line meltdown, which I posted as a bad example for a reaction to a reviewer, now writers have slammed reviewers on their blogs and other social sites. I’ve read these too, and are every bit as mean as any review I’ve read on anyone. Now some reviewers are feeling their own pain and I’m not saying they deserve it.

In this ebook revolution, I believe what we’re seeing is the scrutiny of reviewers being turned back to them with the easy usage of cyber-space and public forums like blogs and Twitter. Our opinions as readers and writers didn’t matter in the past while we relied on paper to communicate. Now with cyber-space, we make our opinions matter because we are able to show them to hundreds/thousands/millions of people.

I’m not going to patronize and say do away with negative reviews. As writers, we need to give reviewers their freedom to give us the freedom to feature our work as something of value. As reviewers, we need to remember if we knock a new author down, they will rise up and it will not look nice. There are professional ways to handle reviews on both sides, and that’s what we should strive for.

On Non-Fiction

2012-01-22T18:58:00.000-08:00

"Seabiscuit"

As the saying goes “truth is stranger than fiction” as I continue to value my experiences in this world, not only is it true, but sometimes, truth is at least, if not more, compelling than fiction.

When non-fiction enters my mind, I immediately think of biographies, a long time favorite read since childhood. I’ve read about the lives of Judy Garland to Napoleon and find them all amazing (isn’t that the catch-word these days? Yes, I use it too.) They began as regular people, like us, and their lives were far from perfect despite great achievements, being entertainer or emperor. Like I wrote in “On the Lives of Writers” in biographies legendary people love, hate, feel happiness, despair, and sometimes live out long fulfilling lives while others fall from grace.

In non-fictional stories, on my short list of favorites is “Seabiscuit” by Laura Hillenbrand. With my usual see movie/read book habit, I really couldn’t believe how great this book was as I read it. And it’s one of my favorite films. Books and films for me rarely pair together as close as these did. The film gave us the stories of the three men behind the rise of the legendary racehorse, and Hillenbrand told a magnificent story sparing the reader no details about the lives of all of them, including rules behind the horse racing industry (serious business), the appalling lives of jockeys back then, and what happened to everyone after Seabiscuit’s retirement. The saddest to me was the fate of acclaimed jockey George Woolf; sometimes the brightest lights burn the shortest time.

In non-fiction writing, I admire these writers, because to me, they are creators as well, like a huge term paper that’s researched while entertaining to read. That’s doesn’t look like an easy effort to me. At least the world is already created, but the author still needs to educate the reader about the world we know during the time he/she writes about. There is a non-fiction story I’d like to tell, but when I sat down to put together the data I gathered, I realized quickly as a writer, I’m not ready. When a writer steps up to tell fiction, that’s what it is: Fiction, research helpful, but not an absolute necessity. For non-fiction: Writer, you’d better do your research and get your facts straight, because there’s always someone who thinks they know the history better. (Though I’ve never seen “Seabiscuit” the book challenged).

Writers, if you’re writing non-fiction, I’d like to hear (read) about it, even though fiction is the main topic of this blog. While I like my dark fantasy dagger wielding knee-biter heroine Shevata, someday I hope to write the piece of non-fiction that I think deserves telling. And most of all, non-fiction gives us remembrance to those who lived before us, and in their passing left us with something we can learn from their lives.

On Good Writing

2012-01-17T18:39:00.000-08:00

"The King's Speech"

"The Tourist"

As an unapologetic movie nut, I attach myself to films like I do with books. Stories reel me in and when written well, I take it in hook, line, sinker, inhaling, exhaling, with a full analysis of every detail, every line of dialogue, almost down to last wardrobe description. I feel what the characters feel; happy when they’re happy, angry when they’re angry, and devastated when bad things happen to good people.

Now let’s return to my second sentence: when written well. I find this to be an interesting assessment because of the variability of interpretation. In other words, good writing to some is garbage to others. I don’t consider myself particularly scrutinizing when it comes to story design; if it flows and makes general sense, that’s fine. But like writers, no readers are created the same. I’ve read bestsellers that are mediocre to me, and new self-published authors with incredible work, and vice-versa.

So how do we define “good writing?” I’m not sure we can. Especially in fiction, part of “good” is “entertainment.” Let’s try it backwards: “bad writing.” So would that be my bad habit of semicolon overuse, or a boring story? There’s no clear line one can draw to make these distinctions most of the time. I’ve seen on countless blogs and social sites about concerns about various self-published author’s whose work isn’t “any good.” “Any good” to who? Excuse me, where’s the writing jury? The obvious answer is the audience of readers who comprise a mixed collection of tastes.

In films, good writing stands out like a blowtorch at midnight. Talented actors carry the storytelling, but without a well-written story to tell, not even the best and most beautiful can rescue a movie from scathing critics and stay-at-home audiences. I believe I see the distinction more clearly in films because in writing I “see” what’s in my mind and use words to translate them onto the printed page. When I read a story, it’s vice-versa; I translate the printed words into images in my mind. In films the images are created for us, therefore there’s no room for extrapolation; the burden is upon the industry to create something that’s truly outstanding.

New authors, the reason we recognize good writing when we see it or read it is because there’s no disguise. Now go forth and write something great.

On Reigning in the Magic

2012-01-16T05:14:00.000-08:00

"Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix"

When I read fantasy books and watch films, another of the many challenges I see is variation of magic in storytelling. “Magic” can be used as a broad term meaning anything from the abilities of a seer with clairvoyant abilities, a magician extending power to affect others miles away while surrounded in ethereal mist, or wand-wielding wizards so familiar to readers today.

When I decided to create magical scenes in my stories, I arrived at a T-stop in the road of writing. Magic, generally will be something supernatural, usually giving a hero/heroine/enemy a “edge” that gives them the memorable power. The first hurdle is defining the power. Is it invisibility, mind reading, or human torch? The next hurdle is the source of the power. Is the character born with it, or does he/she acquire it through special items, like rings, spell books, suits, cosmic radiation or wands? How is it used? Do certain words need to be said, or can the character just use the power by will? How far a distance can the ability extend? Can someone across the world feel the effects?

Though it’s difficult to imagine now, my initial idea for Shevata was for her to be a wizard. (That was before the Harry Potter-mania, so I’m glad I changed my mind). I made the change in favor of a more physical character with innate abilities resembling comic book heroes. Though some readers tell me her abilities seem limitless, her blade can only reach so far despite her best efforts.

Fantasy novels spun off from popular role-playing games I read mostly in the 1980’s usually did a great job in describing magic, which is extending to current authors I’m reading now. But the lines need to be drawn in the limitations to avoid the omnipotent character (example “Q” in the “Next Generation” Star Trek series). Telling the future is one thing, but moving a planet is another. (I’ll make an exception with Galactus in the old “Fantastic 4” comics; the idea of eating a planet was cool to me as a kid). Every character must have limitations, and the way the author reveals them is part of what every writer adds to the creative experience. In filmmaking, fortunately, magical storytelling to me has improved through the years given the necessary core elements of good writing, acting, directing, and production.

New authors, if magic or special super abilities are your subject, as always, tweet to us about it. There’s not a single super-ability to outweigh another unless one’s a bona fide unwavering Superman fan. But even he has that kryptonite problem.

On Using Clichés

2012-01-15T06:21:00.000-08:00

"The Princess Bride"

During the editing process of my second novella, “Children of Discord,” I used the line in dialogue twice: “It’s time.” Once was by Shevata before removing a bad guy, and another was before a secret marriage by childhood sweethearts. The editor gave good advice by saying the phrase is an over-used clichéd line and to re-word the sentences.

Clichés, or stereotypes, I find to be tricky tools in writing fiction. The author needs something familiar enough to reel in the reader. Examples: 1) Hero rescuing beloved princess. 2) The enemy is clever but loses in the end. 2) Cute/humorous non-human supporting characters. 4) Young inexperienced hero defeats the large monstrous enemy 5) last but not least, a single person is chosen for a dangerous task.

The obvious negative of using clichés is the predictability they bring to stories. But the positive is how authors can spin the predictable into the less predictable. Examples would be many anti-hero concepts, the “uncloaking” of characters to reveal truths at the right time, and dark outcomes that require careful crafting as many readers don’t want to feel depressed after finishing genre fiction books. An editor once recommended me to have characters lie to each other more to bring in more intrigue. The lack of a love interest remains an often-criticized deviation in my own writing. “Act of Redemption” is not a love story. Shevata’s monstrous curse doesn’t exactly make her a prince magnet. But does she ever find love? That’s the good part about clichés; they make room for the author to use creativity to reach a goal seen often in fiction but through unconventional means.

When I review books, I usually raise a star to authors that minimize clichés. But no size fits all; sometimes the template strengthens the story. While avarice, evil, and greed drive antagonists, still our most cherished emotions like love and bravery move us through our protagonists. New authors, tweet us about your work, and if you use clichés, that doesn’t make the work less your own. The readers always decide.

C.C. Cole - The Independent Author Network

2012-01-13T05:18:00.000-08:00

C.C. Cole - The Independent Author Network

Review of “The Rejection Letter” by Johnny Ray

2012-01-13T05:04:00.000-08:00

This story caught my eye about a serial killer going after literary agents. Amy, an unstable young lady, met a book agent, and became infuriated when he received his letter rejecting her work. What first seems like stalking, she moves toward a more complex situation, by getting closer to the literary agent on a professional then personal level. By the time she meets her target, several agents met violent deaths, adding some unexpected twists and turns. Overall, this is a well-written, fun read, in which I did not take seriously the satirically horrific attacks of the agents. Many authors who have opened rejection letters felt the sting like Amy did. Good job, four stars!

Review of “A Girl Nobody Wants: A Shocking True Story of Child Abuse in Ireland by Lily O’Brien

2012-01-11T18:58:00.000-08:00

I finished this disturbing book yesterday and spent today thinking about it. When I downloaded the cover for this post, I saw a one-star review where a reader says the story isn’t true. Two points I’ll make up front:

1) I wasn’t there, so I see no reason to disbelieve the writer unless some other information comes out.

2) Whether or not the story is true or false, here’s a truth: There are people in this world that consider those that cannot help themselves (children, vulnerable adults, animals) a burden and do not care for them as they would someone they love. I’ve seen and experienced enough in my lifetime to know bad things happen, and the lack of love brings forth such events.

The story is about Lily, who lived with a mother and stepfather in London, and after an assault by a family member, was sent with her brother and sister to live with their father in Ireland. It didn’t get much better there, as the father was often away, and the kids suffered neglect. When the community found out, they were taken in by a group of nuns and endured more hardship. When Lily grew up, she finally got away and met a man that loved her and continued to attempt to put her childhood behind her by giving her own kids the love she wasn’t given.

Overall this was a compelling read that may turn away the skeptics and bring believers to tears. I liked the story, but sometimes, the truth is too hard for people to bear; so I recommend this story with a warning it’s not for the faint of heart. Overall, well done, four stars!

On Prequel Pain

2012-01-06T19:16:00.000-08:00

"Star Wars IV: A New Hope"

"Star Wars I: The Phantom Menace"

The most popular fiction often is not easily defined as to why so many “hook” the story. A combination of talent, timing, and exposure somehow explodes amongst the population into household names, as we’ve seen in books, blockbuster films, and books-to-films.

I’ve written previously how I learned to sympathize with Hollywood more than I used to regarding sequels when I wrote one of my own. It isn’t easy to balance a re-wind vs. new material, hoping the audience will see it favorably. As I continue to complete the four novellas, I don’t deny the element of doubt that hits me on occasions, thinking, “What if my readers hate this?”

A few readers asked me about considering a prequel to the Gastar novellas. While as a writer, I sit and mull over just about everything, but I never thought much about formally writing the history of the Great War in Gastar, that brought forth Shevata and her fellow child soldiers in a separate novel. How far does one need to go to tell a story backwards?

The challenges of prequel-telling are profound, as I believe our minds are trained in a linear-time fashion to expect what happens next, instead of what happened before. While a history enriches a story, how much detail is required before saturation? Also, there’s detailing a history inside the story and there’s writing the history separately. While both require careful crafting, as a new author I find moving forward to be a more natural evolution of storytelling.

Does this mean that prequels aren’t worth the time? No. The readers always decide, and I don’t believe stories should be discounted without reading them. But to back peddle poses an extra challenge for the writer because many stories lock in readers to the lead character(s), who are usually not part of their own history.

New authors, if you’re writing prequels, tweet about it to us. My own wariness about creating them myself doesn’t limit my appreciation of the many talented writers out there. Go for it.

Review of “One-Legged Seagull: A Warrior’s Guide to Inner Peace by Joey Avneil

2012-01-05T19:24:00.000-08:00

I found this book to stand out amongst the many I read, because it addresses an issue that affects many people on different levels that require a common goal: inner peace. With the setting in Israel and the martial arts training, many philosophies combine into bringing the story from a traumatic past into a peaceful present. While the audience is relatively specific, the message rings strong and clear, and inner peace is something to strive for and treasure for everyone. I highly recommend this book as an alternative to “How-To” book. Great work, five stars!

On Fantasy Rides

2012-01-05T18:42:00.000-08:00

"Shadowfax"

"Thestral"

"Eragon"

While continuing my endless pondering of fantasy stories, one supporting character stands common: the creature that carries either a main character or supporting characters. In medieval dark fantasy, usually it’s horses with special intelligence or abilities, or Pegasus-like creatures, as in thestrals in Harry Potter, or the last, but not least, dragon riders. The sandworms in “Dune” I’d say would be travel on a whole different level.

In fantasy we’re drawn often to wings. I understand this, as when I see birds out of my window I’m amazed at the effortless flight and hope they don’t drop “gifts” on my car. We know horses don’t have wings, but as kids, we’ve seen pictures of Pegasus, so wouldn’t it be cool to have a horse like that? Or with unicorns, what if a horse had a long horn? I admit my little girl enthusiasm for unicorns faded quickly as I turned on to dragons, which I never recovered.

Considering that horse thieving was punishable by hanging at one time, the need of transportation should not be discounted in fantasy stories. Not all fantasy stories require geographical travel, but in those that do give the new author an excellent opportunity to create your own fantasy steed. I decided the means by which Shevata could move in and out of Hell could be the use of a horse born in hell that could leap into either world. She named him Stalen, and he bribes a precious gem or gold piece with every trip or eats the rider if not paid. (Well, he was born in hell).

Fantasy mounts can lead the story as gentle friendly beings, or lead as part of combat, as in warhorses or dragons. Writers can create close friendships or conditional cooperation, as in Shevata and Stalen. However it’s done, the various types of rides make for a memorable supporting character in the world of fantasy.

The Cole Cut XII: The Conquest of George R. R. Martin

2011-12-31T06:58:00.000-08:00

In my final installment of “The Cole Cut” for 2011, I saved my largest project for last. It was not the writing of my second novella “Children of Discord,” because it was in the editing stage by the time 2011 came around. Not to kick down my own work, one of my many happy moments of 2011 is winning a book award with a sequel novella.

The largest project, no doubt, was the reading of all five of the “A Song of Ice and Fire” books by George R. R. Martin, or “Game of Thrones,” as in the cable series. I started them sometime during the summer and finished in the fall. Counting the amount of time and the number of pages I think I’ll leave out for fear of triggering a migraine. Let’s just say, I didn’t take a big bite. I ate the whole cake in five huge pieces.

This epic is a masterpiece on many levels. If you like dark fantasy, this series should be either on your nightstand or in your e-reader, keeping in mind, these books are very R-rated and not for kids. The first three books are outstanding. I scaled down my ratings on the last two, but they’re still good and as part of the story, still a must-read, like them or not.

With every review, I mentioned my favorite character, “The Imp,” or “Tyrion Lannister” shown above. (I’ve heard this guy’s up for an Emmy, I hope that’s true and he deserves it for the cable series). He’s not the only character I like, but for a small guy, he stands taller in characterization than the others by wit, cleverness, and generally better intentioned than his dysfunctional family. In the books, he shows great courage in spite of his physical dwarf size.

Readers, for those interested, charge into “A Song of Ice and Fire” using your brain as a lance, because you’ll need it. The series is intriguing, brutal, and brilliant. As I’ve previously written, it’s over-extended and it’s time for Mr. Martin to reel the story in. Even Frodo and Sam got as far as Mount Doom, and re-united with the original “Fellowship of the Ring.” But that’s OK, Mr. Martin still has a lot to teach new authors with this massive epic, so check it out. Again, the readers decide.

On The Diary of a New Author 2011

2011-12-26T14:17:00.000-08:00

While realizing this may not be the most original idea for an end-of-year reflection, I still like to look back at last year and appreciate what I’ve learned. The world of the new author brings another level to the human experience:

Jo March in "Little Women"

--I published my second book of the Gastar series, “Children of Discord” in 2011. As in my article “On Sequel Sympathy,” I realized a follow up is every bit as difficult as the first novel in a series. The writer must give the audience enough of the first, but enough newness to keep the story fresh. Not easy.

--When we new authors enter the writers’ cyber-space, we all look like cans of Spam. With no followers, no friends on social sites, I see myself with similar skepticism that others gave me. However, I followed the example of several great authors that gave me a chance. I believe in giving other new authors a chance.

--I learned it’s important to realize not to expect much in the way of sales. Face reality and work with it. Working without expectation has a freedom all its own, and I still wonder how I would feel about writing if I “wrote on-demand.”

--While being careful not to spam, don’t give up on your work. Keep it out there, some readers will be interested and some will not. That’s OK, you’ll be known as a writer, not a spammer. I wrote a lot about the spam-accusations hurled at me early on, and now I see the spammers aren’t always new to the industry; some of them self-promote exclusively. That’s OK, every author has his/her own style of promotion, as well as writing.

--Have fun with your new work. I like to pretend I’m a Tribble on Twitter, do some silly tweets, and tweet something that most of us can relate to; like Happy Holidays and food comas. It slowly becomes a double-life, and I love an alternate reality of my everyday experiences.

--Write all the time; every day, if your hand can stand it. Articles, short stories, chapters of your next book, whatever it is, writing is like eating: The more you eat, the more you eat; the more you write, the more you write.

--When not writing, I’ve learned to read. I keep one of my many e-readers handy, and read new author colleagues as well as classics, most genres, all the time. Life is not boring when one reads great work, and it not need be the mainstream bestsellers.

--Value other writers, the classics and the other new authors you meet in cyber-space. Offer something to do for another; you’ll be surprised what you get in return. I find giving to be encouraging, gratifying, and educational. Expectations can yield disappointment, but pleasant surprises can yield happiness.

--Learn to be realistic in what you can participate in. I flunked out of my first blog tour attempt. Furious at myself for letting others down, I went the extra mile for my first successful blog tour. While I loved it, I now know it takes focus and time. Nowadays I purchase and review books of other authors, the better fit for me. It’s less mass exposure, but gives quality exposure. Now with blog tours/other group activities I plan carefully. It’s better to do a few things well than many things badly.

--Social media can take over your life, especially if you’re working full time, and/or caring for a family. I’ve learned to select a few sites to work with regularly, and I’ve dropped out of several sites.

--I still offer to give my books to reviewers. Though I’ve written that can be taken wrong, I find it more awkward to ask them to purchase.

--After eliminating my first website www.gastarseries.com, I re-launched my blog www.shevata-cccole.blogspot.com. Blogging is not easy, but it’s a good place for the new author to write and feature your work regularly. As my blog has increased in viewers, my on-line presence, though small, has come light years from day one.

--I’ve never obsessed about the money to be made as a new author. It’s not worth the effort; some books sell more than others. As I’ve tweeted many times, if you’re looking to get rich writing, get a plan B.

--Most of all, I find my new author status as a special, particular corner of my life I claim to be my own. When I talk about my writing world with friends/family they usually say, “You’re having a ball with this, aren’t you?”

Yes, I’m having a ball because I love it, more every day.

The Cole Cut XI: Best Iguana

2011-12-25T07:10:00.000-08:00

I couldn't resist re-posting Stella Deluze's excellent essay from the standpoint of her unusual roomate, Zorro.

A lazy animal's life

What the heck? Still sleepy, I open my eyes. Why does the sun always rise that quickly? The same as it sets. One second I dream of the high trees, next I'm thrown into reality. Brutal, I must say. And it means, that I have to leave this corner I slept in.

Not that someone forces me, but this ugly creature that provides me with some delicious tasting stuff will put it on my lower lazy hangout. I spend most of my day there, because I can overlook my territory, you see?

She doesn't know it yet, but I'm her master. Proof is that she always backs off when I head-bob at her, or leaves, just to come back with more delicious things to eat and boy, she knows what I like. A lot of crunchy greens and those little round things that pop in my mouth.

How I know it's a female? Hell, don't you understand? I'm an alpha male and if I don't take up the scent of a fine lady, who else would, eh? And there are many opportunities for she comes to see me a lot. Even when I really don't want to be disturbed.

Oh, there she is and I see green stuff. Good job, I could eat at least two bowls of this. She makes funny noises I don't understand. What do you want? I wonder. Something's different. Typical. A cold draft pushes past me. No time to blink, I'm in anticipation of the food.

Gosh, this is good! I don't spare her one look. Then...Hey! No! I want to shout. Why can't she let me eat in peace? I don't like being touched, I'm ticklish. Leave me alone, I signal by shaking my head. Not that I have high hopes. Years of experience made showed that's not going to happen. I sigh, throw a brief look towards her flesh and contemplate.

Lucky for her, I enjoy my breakfast far too much. Again, this annoying sound. Sometimes, I feel she speaks my language, but I have trouble to understand, must be a weird dialect. I would answer, then she would answer, too, but still no real conversation.

Now, she dashes out of my sight. Do I care? No, she left enough so I continue to tuck in. Could've closed the gap where this cold draft floats in. Might mean she'll be back. Yes, here she comes, holding some orange watery treats, then puts it in front of me.

And there are some attached to her flesh. Great! She'll just take the mick again, every time I have almost one in my mouth, she'll pull away, making weird noises again, just a tad louder. Put the damn sweet things down and let me get them my own, I want to scream at her.

Imagine someone holds your favourite treat in front of you and then pulls it away, every bloody time. How would you feel? To do a little bit of justice, I've a trick, darting forwards, mouth as wide open as possible and try to bite into her flesh, she then drops the orange thingies.

From experience I know that will piss her off, teach her a lesson, you know? On the other hand, I won't get supplement and when I like something very much, then it's supplement. And variety. Must say, she does this well.

But this constant staring. Why on earth would she stare at me for ages? I need to digest, warm up, spread my arm and legs, rest my head and doze. Something I do for most of the day. I can afford it, can't I? Having my personal slave.

There I lie, relaxed, dreaming of a fine woman for me, when the drafts is back. I lift my head to see what the reason for the disturbance is. Oh dear. This giant spitting thing. That comes unexpected! There I was, sun-bathing and now it rains heavily. I squint.

Good I don't soak, it's rather nice when it's a warm shower. I wonder if I will ever have a quiet moment, day even. But that's something else I can dream of, tomorrow, maybe the day after that. The rain stops, the sun shines down on me and I'm able to have a nap. Life is hard for an iguana.

Bio: Stella is a versatile writer. Having spent almost all her life in Germany, she now lives in beautiful London with her pet iguana Zorro. When she's not busily typing away on her laptop, she edits other people's work.

The Cole Cut X: A Montage of Books

2011-12-25T06:55:00.000-08:00

In this installment of "The Cole Cut," a summation of my experiences in 2011, here's another set of notable books, notable by creativity, writing skills, and controversy:

"The Unwanted" by Daniel Carter and "First Chosen" by M. Todd Gallowglas are excellent dark fantasy stories, that I was happy to read and review. Good work, fellas!

The above books are by the authors of "The Collaborates" a group of ace writers with don't-want-to-miss books about international crime, co-dependence, and paranormal romance, respectively.

"A Majority of One" by Robert Lamb is the most controversial book I read in 2011. A teacher chooses a book to be read by her students and her decision is not supported by the small town deep south community, leading to tragic results. I understood his point, but disagreed with the example he used. However, readers should decide. Some books are written to address difficult questions in society, and this is one of them.

The "Underwear Dare" by the Nardini Sisters is the funniest book I read in 2011. Highly recommended!

"Reunion" by Jeff Bennington, understandably popular on amazon, it an interesting story about a tragic school shooting and a paranormal aftermath; very intriguing!

Great work, authors!!

On Four and Five Star Reviews

2011-12-25T06:14:00.000-08:00

One of the many dreams of all new authors is for our books to get great reviews. They help our confidence, encourage us to keep going, and regarding sales, they do help; or the other way around is, without favorable reviews our books are truly a hard sell.

When I review book from the many talented new authors, I’m happy to give four and five star reviews. But I think why do I give one story four stars and another five? If I think it’s good enough for four, why not five?

As I ponder this question, I don’t have simple answer. To me, the fifth star is more subjective. Meaning, the story goes from “very good” to “great.” I still recommend four-star reviews to readers, and sometimes pick up a book to re-read I have four stars.

An example of the subjectivity is the book I reviewed “Orange Petals in a Storm” by Niamh Clune. When I gave it four stars and saw almost every other reviewer gave it five, I thought, “What did I miss? Did I read too fast? Am I dense?” (probably) After thinking about it for a while, I realized it’s the way the story is carried in this beautiful novel: I’m a dialogue reader and writer. Niamh writes incredible prose. I loved it, but my taste is a more dialogue-driven story. Nothing makes me right and the other reviewers wrong, or vice-versa.

Not every four-star review I’ve given is prose-over-dialogue, and I can’t explain the difference. Usually there’s “something” that the story leaves me with makes me raise the fifth star. But it’s hardly a negative to the four-stars; instead it’s a positive to the five stars.

New authors, when you get four-star reviews, it’s still a great review. I know I appreciate the ones I get. And if your book gets four stars from one reviewer, it will probably get five from others, three from others, and there’s probably a “non-audience” reviewer to throw in a one-or-two star rating (non-audience readers’ being a common reason for low critiques). Every writer that writes about reviews says they’re subjective, and I agree. So write great work, find your audience, and the four and five stars will follow.

On Shevata’s Continuing Journey

2011-12-21T20:19:00.000-08:00

As I’m putting together the third novella of the Gastar Series, I noted on some of the reviews of “Children of Discord” about how the city and people of Gastar change with each novella. As I’ve written before, the Gastar Series is not an epic, not a mainstream/paranormal romance, and not lengthy books. The lead character makes a journey from killing and war to love and family. For the readers that have met Shevata, it’s clearly a challenging effort.

In “Act of Redemption” the story began two hundred years following her actions that resulted in the fall of Gastar. In the second novella, “Children of Discord,” Shevata returns to her home city, again after two centuries, so it’s understandably changed by growth and development. In the third and fourth (four in all) novellas, she returns to Gastar under very different circumstances and following the passage of a shorter time period.

Note: The city of Gastar changes through the years. The people change; therefore, the human characters change. But what doesn’t change? Shevata. Her problem isn’t with an inability to destroy her enemies (most of the time); instead she’s unable to blend into the civilized world she fights for. After spending so much time as a wartime assassin and various journeys into the underworld, the irony is that she cannot adapt to her own world.

Shevata hasn’t given up on the idea of putting away her weapons for a normal life. But it isn’t easy for her as she is headstrong and set in her ways. Like anyone who’s been to war, she cannot forget the past. But she continues to reach for her future. Above all, she values the safety of her home city even if she’s not a part of it. The challenges she’s yet to face will be what she’s willing to sacrifice to protect the people of Gastar. The closer she gets to reaching her goal, the more she finds herself at risk of losing her opportunity for the greater good. If you can imagine what it would be like to put behind everything you’ve ever known and experienced in order to begin your life completely over, that is Shevata’s journey. In light of the numerous non-human characters in the series, the underlying message is all about humanity.

The Cole Cut IX: More Great Books

2011-12-21T18:32:00.000-08:00

In this installment of “The Cole Cut” I’d like to point out a few books/authors that created stories that I’ve enjoyed in the year 2011. The ones below are some I reviewed earlier in the year, but I do recommend checking out some of my more recent reviews, including “The Underwear Dare” and “Caring for Eleanor.”

Niamh Clune's "Orange Petals in a Storm" is a beautifully written paranormal novel about a girl finding her way from despair. At four stars by me, I highly recommend it.

I enjoyed "Hazardous Choices" by Joseph Rinaldo. This is a captivating read about a young man transcending his double life of gangland crime and a college athlete.

"Learning to Fly" by Gina Penn is a moving series of short stories that are as fascinating as they are darkly disturbing. At five stars by me, I thought it was brilliant.

On The Holiday Season

2011-12-20T17:48:00.000-08:00

"It's a Wonderful Life"

During what many call “The Holiday Season” it’s usually the time around Christmas, before Thanksgiving for retailers, extending to after the New Year. As this season of happiness approaches for me as a new author, I’ve been thinking about its positive meaning.

I’ll give a disclaimer that I’m a lifetime Christian, so Christmas means the same to me as any others in the same faith. But, what does the Holiday Season mean in more general terms? Let’s be more specific: What does the Holiday Season mean for the new author, excluding religious meaning?

At least once in our lives, we have had experiences similar, though not exact, to the famous character George Bailey in the classic film “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Maybe it wasn’t the honest loss of thousands of dollars owed, as in George’s case. Desperation carries many messages, sometimes financial, sometimes relationships, and sometimes with loss (my sister’s death was December 22^nd, and she was buried on Christmas Eve).

As difficult as it is to feel optimism during such times, help is there when people ask for it. Some gain strength through faith, and/or loved ones, but overall, it must channel through ourselves to appreciate what good we have in our lives.

As I reflect back on this past year, what remains with me as a new author are the numerous new virtual relationships I’ve gained with other writers, readers, and other great people. One needs not to look far in cyber-space to see negatives, but look what technology has given us: A virtual universe to meet people we wouldn’t have heard of otherwise.

Are “virtual friends” like the friends of George Bailey that came to his aid in his time of need? Generally, friendship is not that simplistic, and virtual friendship is not on the same level. But we are out there for each other, for whatever side the virtual friends presents to us.

May this Holiday Season reach out to all friends made in cyber-space. In one-way or another, we protect the backs of our friends. Sometimes a re-tweet or a “like” on a social site will pull us out of dark places we experience. Never forget, new authors, nobody is really alone.

The Cole Cut VIII: It Began with a “Bang”

2011-12-11T04:48:00.000-08:00

Author William Butler

In my very early author/blogger days, I got discouraged from seeking out potential reviewers, and getting some rejections. One reviewer seemed interested, but didn’t post a review on the free book I sent because Edward Cullen wasn’t Shevata’s love interest. While I do appreciate the honesty of reviewers being up front with me about their book preferences, I had one of many low days.

Since I already had a kindle (got before they got cheap, as I’ve written before), I did a quick scan on Twitter. I decided to become a book reviewer. What does it mean to be a reviewer? Well, to state the obvious, one reads books. As a non-editor, I go for content. So there I was, tweeting away about my book, and never offered to read anyone else’s? Not one of my better moments.

A title caught my attention on Twitter by a guy wearing sunglasses reminding me of Joe Cool (that’s a compliment). The title was “Bang.” I saw the synopsis, and decided to give the book a try.

For those who haven’t read it, “Bang” it’s a well-written Noir fiction novel. For those offended by this “very R-rated” story, I suspect they have had the fortune to have never known people like that. But for me, yes, I’ve known people that abuse alcohol, drugs, commit adultery and come home after a hard days’ work for a hard night of inter-martial fighting. (Adulthood is under-rated; I can avoid such these days). So to me, it was brilliant at five stars.

The author William Butler saw my five star review and found me on Twitter, graciously thanking me, and asking, “who are you?” I love pleasant surprises.

Since then, William and I support each other’s work. Are we “faking” our reviews? Nope. We’re two struggling writers. As I mature on my writers’ journey, I’ll remember where it began: Not necessarily with my own first book, but appreciation of others’ books as well. Any author I’ve reviewed since has William to thank.

The Cole Cut VII: Generosity and Visionaries

2011-12-10T11:38:00.000-08:00

In this section of the “Cole Cut” I’d like to feature some talented, fascinating people that through their work, they reach out to help not only new authors, but also many people in need. Their unwavering efforts will continue to reach out to those not as fortunate as us blogging away at our computers.

Kimberley Johnson

Author Kimberley Johnson, her mother Ann Werner, and Ralph Faust: Their creation of “The Virgin Diaries” a sensible, tell-all book from confidential interviews about first-time sexual encounters is to reach out and help people deal with sensitive topics. The follow up, “There Ain’t No Sunshine” reveals the under-appreciate heartbreak felt by men. I’ve given them both five stars, and their upcoming book on body image I’m sure will not disappoint us. Besides their work, I applaud their courage to make a stand for Indie writers.

Bernard Schaffer

Bernard Schaffer, author of “Whitechapel: The Final Stand of Sherlock Holmes” got five stars by me and is a must-read for fans-and non-fans of one of the greatest detectives in literary history. He formed the “Kindle All Stars” whose proceeds go to missing and exploited children. He also looks like a younger David Boreanz, but don’t tell him I said that.

Pandor Poikilos

Pandora Poikilos: Accomplished writer who spends time in the blogosphere helping other authors get noticed in the vast cyber-space. She’s brilliant, kind, and offers to help everyone. She’s a forerunner for Orangeberry Books (amongst others), and sets us straight when it comes to blog touring. For flunkies like me, I admire her straightforwardness and dedication. I’ve got two of her books and looking forward to reading them.


Paul Anthony

Paul Anthony: The ace author of “Bushfire” given five stars by me reaches out to the Dyslexia Foundation. He’s brilliant, generous, and I’ve got him working on a Mississippi accent. It could be worse: I could be working on a British accent.

Blog Tour de Troops: As my first successful blog tour, I loved it and hope to participate again. So what I gave away books? Look what our Troops give for us. No comparison.

More to follow! I’ve got a bunch because I’m blessed to virtually meet so many awesome people!

Notice Me!

2011-12-10T09:26:00.000-08:00

As new authors, while we’re out promoting, interviewing tweeting, FB’ing, networking, we all have the same in common: The desire to be noticed.

Publicity is an interesting concept; what seems simple is far from the truth. Even “publicists” sometimes can’t get the publicity many authors are seeking (I write by my own experience). Reviews are a good start, features and interviews also help, but what brings us out of the shadows of amazon and smashwords to be “known?”

Complex questions rarely lead to simple answers. As a fan of “Occam’s Razor,” I’ve found it doesn’t apply to the publicity of new authors. What are we to do?

I’ve found the least-expensive method is to follow the advice of our social networking experts and fellow authors. Most of us know the importance of social networking as well as “promote your work, not just your work.” As new authors, especially Indies, what we have to remember is that our books are purchased via the Internet (with some exceptions, depending on local bookstores). We need to develop an internet presence.

An article recently about authors constantly networking with other authors made a valid point: Authors are not always readers, and it’s readers that an author wants. I still like to network with authors because I learn so much from them and I like reviewing their work. But for new authors, we need readers.

For-money services are out there to attract readers, such as “Tweet-Adder.” This strategy is to tap into the readership of other authors in your genre. As a non-expert, I suggest checking this out and see if it’s a good fit for you.

Last, but not least, we have to write all the time. One book every ten years may work for Jonathan Franzen, but not for us new Indies. Readers have to see your work, and even for the “big shots” it takes more than one book often to get noticed.

The experts don’t ever say that getting noticed is easy. But persistence does pay off to some level. As long as we new authors understand that, we can find our own way to get noticed without getting arrested in the process.

The Cole Cut VI: Great People for New Authors

2011-12-10T07:06:00.000-08:00

I wanted to look back and thank some great promotional experts that helped me take my now-defunct site www.gastarseries.com, basically the plains of Pluto to the new www.shevata-cccole.blogspot.com into a blog reaching over 13K hits today. I couldn’t have done it without these inspiring, amazing people. Though they don’t work for free, they do offer inexpensive ways to get your work noticed and improving your blog.

Shelley Hitz

Shelley Hitz: The pretty and smart self-publishing coach is every bit as nice over the telephone as she seems in her posts and emails. She helped me improve the left side of my blog while at the same time doing what I wanted: Featuring my work, using easy-to-use links without ads, and made a great effort at helping me organize, which is challenging at best.

The Blog Farm: When I first joined this to have my blog syndicated, he emailed me offering to return my money because links and occasional videos do not make a blog. Through his guidance, he helped with my graphics as well as advice.

Aggie Villaneuva

Aggie Villaneuva: I still can’t pronounce her last name. She features “Promotion a la Carte,” an inexpensive alternative to more costly and less effective ads and marketing campaigns. New authors, check this out to find out that promotion need not break your bank account and still be effective. Also, Aggie’s great in every way; she’s pointed me in the direction of great blogs with entertainment and education.

The Cole Cut V: Who Freaked Me Out

2011-12-10T06:27:00.000-08:00

As I continue to reflect back on 2011, I’d like to name some creative authors whose books I’ve reviewed that took me down the scary journey into the world of darkness and horror.

Ania Ahlborn’s “Seed,” reviewed by me at five stars, made me jump out of my chair. When I read part of it aloud to my husband he said, “If you keep reading that you won’t be able to sleep for a week.” At five stars, Ania’s book threw me for a loop, and her book did understandably well regarding sales.

Erik Gustafon’s “Fall Leaves and the Black Dragon” is a fascinating debut novel as the layers are pulled back to reveal to a young man the explanation of horrific events he experienced as a boy. Reviewed by me at four stars, and Erik was nice enough to be my first interview on my blog.

S.L. Pierce’s “The Hate,” layers “Evil upon Evil” that made me squirm, but brilliant at four stars by me. Let’s just say, don’t tick off her heroines. They play for keeps.

Last, but not least, Diana Trees’ “Divine Wine” which I’ve mentioned in a previous article, is a “wickedly funny” version of a vampire story. Like I stated before, it’s nothing like any vampire story I ever read. At four stars by me, horror fans, check out how bad vampires can really be.

The Cole Cut IV: Great Books for Kids

2011-12-08T18:46:00.000-08:00

During my writing/reviewing/blogging journey, I came across some writers that amazed me not only with skilled writing, but fantastic imagination as well. In this list are books that are to me great books for kids. Disclaimer: When I say “kids’ books,” that always translates into “Parents check these books out for your kids.”

“Neiko’s Five Land Adventure,” by A.K. Taylor which I reviewed at four stars, to me is incredibly imaginative. The fun adventure story is to me a fun book for any age, including adults still kids mentally.

“Toonopolis” by Jeremy Rodden , also reviewed by me at four stars, is over-the-top imagination at its best. To be dropped into a world of bizarre, fun characters with a touch of danger make for a fun read.

“Sam and the Dragon” by Eric and Kamin Thomasma is a beautiful little book about the value of friendship. Given five stars by me, if I had friends with little kids, I’d give them a copy of this book for a bedtime story.

More to follow as 2011 winds down!

On Wordsmiths and Entertainment

2011-12-08T14:53:00.000-08:00

We new authors have in common with other creative people learning difficult industries to break in to and get noticed through our work. As difficult as it is, sometimes I feel blessed not to be in the music industry.

Kurt Cobain

I find the life of Kurt Cobain tragic, as I do the loss of anyone so young and troubled, need not be the life of a famous person. As a life long head-banger (less so with the migraines these days), I admit I enjoyed his music also. Like I stated before in my article “On the Lives of Writers” there are the author’s life and his/her work. I’d prefer to remember Kurt for where he placed his passion: His work. Below, from his landmark song and video “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”

“With the lights out it's less dangerous
Here we are now
Entertain us
I feel stupid and contagious
Here we are now
Entertain us
A mulatto
An albino
A mosquito
My Libido
Yeah”

Elton John

Now let’s change to Elton John, another artist, still living, whose lyrics by his collaborator Bernie Taupin created a timeless classic with “Your Song:”

“And you can tell everybody this is your song
It may be quite simple but now that it's done
I hope you don't mind
I hope you don't mind that I put down in words
How wonderful life is while you're in the world”

As it appears that I’m moving back to the music industry to compare the writing industry, hear (read) me out. Remember John Locke’s mega-seller about the importance of entertaining books? He made a profound point. As new authors, stringing together our words into mesmerizing elegance is at risk of losing what we have to offer: Entertainment. While both of the above work is considered entertaining, the styles couldn’t have been more different. Kurt’s song brought out the rebellious part of us with unconventional, but fun lyrics, while Elton John (not forgetting Taupin) gave us a moving, beautiful song to remember always.

As I read the old classics (currently on the original “Frankenstein” and “Dracula”), what I see is eloquent, but laborious writing. Some of it is a sign of the times and the changing writing industry. While I marvel at these old foundations for dark fantasy, what I also see it that entertainment is making or breaks for the new author in fiction. Yes, some of us are “junior writers” but even the most sophisticated authors need to entertain the reader. And when a writer can go both, that's by far the goal of all authors of fiction.

The Cole Cut III: Best Blogs

2011-12-05T18:13:00.000-08:00

How To Write Badly Well

Joel Stickley

Funny guy Joel Stickley writes his versions of “bad writing” with a stroke of genius. Bad writing is easy, but only the most talented can Write Badly Well. From his most recent posts it looks like he’s taking some time away from the blogosphere. When I’m in need of a laugh, I’ve yet to be disappointed.I highly recommend reading at least the first link posted here:

http://writebadlywell.blogspot.com/2010/01/overreact.html

http://writebadlywell.blogspot.com/2011/08/banish-said-from-your-vocabulary.html

http://writebadlywell.blogspot.com/2011/06/comeback-week-4-alienate-your-existing.html

Derek Haines: The Vandal


Derek Haines

Derek is a Tweep that shares his own take of his life, writing, and the world. I reviewed his book “Vandalism of Words,” which is quite cool at four stars and have his book “Dead Men.” He’s insightful, funny, and don’t tell him I said so. It may go to his head.

http://www.derekhaines.ch/vandal/

http://www.derekhaines.ch/vandal/2011/12/faces-in-the-street/

More to follow as 2011 winds down....

On The Fate of Dragons

2011-12-04T18:14:00.000-08:00

"Dragonslayer"

I’ve written several times in past articles about dragons being my favorite monster. And I’m picky about my dragons. They need lizard like anatomy, no potbellies and no bat wings (exception being the one in “Dragonslayer.”) My dragons speak the human language and have an alternative humanoid form.

I try to remember when I first heard about dragons; it was probably one of several paintings of “St. George and the Dragon” in one of my mom’s art books as a kid. I do remember the song “Puff the Magic Dragon,” and in the ‘80’s read “The Hobbit” and watched the film “Dragonslayer.” Back then a funny parody of “St. George and the Dragon” was the book “The Dragon and the George.” I found it on amazon recently. I also remember the film “Dragonheart” with Sean Connery voice-overing the dragon.

For us “dragon writers” what is it about dragons that fascinate us? What keeps us re-inventing them for our own stories? Why can’t we all us unicorns, an equally mythical creature?

Generally, dragons are dangerous. Some are just non-intelligent carnivorous, winged monsters, spouting fire. Others are more intelligent, well above genius by human standards. They can read minds, use a number of horrific breath weapons, become invisible, and cause fear by the sight of them. Other generalizations about dragons are that they live in caves, and lay upon a hoard of treasure. Some are evil, some are good, and none are very friendly.

What I find interesting in stories about dragons is their fate, which is usually death. A brave aging wizard gives his life to kill a dragon. A gallant knight slays the dragon with his lance. One lucky arrow brings down the dragon Smaug, and learns that the bigger they are, the harder they fall. A benevolent dragon removes a portion of his heart to save the life of a boy who betrays him later.

Must dragons always have to die in stories? No. Does the death of a dragon impact a story? Answer: Definitely, as would any powerful character. That’s part of what makes dragons key characters in dark fantasy stories, their fate, by living or dying either makes for a dramatic scene or ending.

In memory of author Anne McCaffery, dragons remain strong in our minds. As dark fantasy authors, we’ve seen these intriguing, dangerous mythical creatures in many books and films. No matter how you use them for your work, like any major character, the question of their fate will always be asked by the reader. It’s up to the writer to make it happen in the worlds they create.

The Cole Cut II: Good Fellas

2011-12-04T12:15:00.000-08:00

As I’m backtracking over 2011 acknowledging great people who’ve helped me find my way down the cyber-road, for this part of “The Cole Cut” I’d like to point out some great guys.

Paul Dorset

Paul Dorset: Author of YA fantasy, his excellent book “Xannu” given 4 stars by me. He uses my articles for his on-line news-for-writers service, “John’s elite” which I highly recommend for the excellent writing/editing tips he posts. (Well, along with my finite wisdom). He has a new paranormal thriller “New Blood” just out, I highly recommend checking out his work.

Nik Beat

Nik Beat: Radio personality of the totally cool CIUT out of Toronto, Canada, was nice enough to accept and read my first book, and invite me to his radio show through a publicist contact. He repeated the favor with my second book. He features a wide variety of music, along with humor, and is an activist for education.

M.R.Mathias

M.R. Mathias: The big dude is a widely accomplished, award-winning medieval dark fantasy writer. Interviews with him show that when life goes wrong, you can still pick up and make it better; I applaud him for that. During my Twitter infancy, he helped me get followers (I’d be surprised if he recalls doing this). His book, “The First Ten Steps” a how-to guide for self-published authors, to me is simpler and less “showcased” than the super-seller by John Locke (though I liked both). I have at least four of his books, and hope to someday do a post on all of them at once.

More to follow!

On The Leading Issue of the Lead Character

2011-12-04T08:38:00.000-08:00

As I read the books of my Indie colleagues, classics, and bestsellers, the reader is left with one thing: The lead character.

In most fiction, a lead character is a must-have. Why? Most of the time (except with some really clever writing) the story needs a point in which the reader can focus and extrapolate beyond to take in the rest. If the lead character cannot be identified early in the story, then many books dissipate into confusion.

Should the lead character be a protagonist? They are in most books and films. Usually, in medieval dark fantasy, (that I write) someone takes a stand for good, has weaknesses and flaws, emotion, and often experience great loss that motivates his/her actions. Bravery, self-sacrifice, and determination help define most lead characters.

But does the lead character always have to be a protagonist? No, and some writers can pull it off. I haven’t read many books with evil main characters, but a film example is “There Will Be Blood.” For those that say the title should have been “There Will Be Boredom,” I won’t argue. I believe that it won such acclaim because it followed the life of a non-nice guy, spiraling into loneliness and insanity. (As a film nut, I have a list of “favorite boring movies,” with “Reds” on the short list).

What does the lead character mean to the new author? Everything. Another example would be the early success of “The Sopranos” before I was too grossed out to watch it. If the audience didn’t “lock in” with the lead character Tony Soprano, then they wouldn’t tune in. I liked his visits to a psychiatrist for depression because so many people really wanted to kill him. To me, it was a different way to bring a gangster to the front stage; a man with all the problems of a modern family while living the life of organized crime.

My early editors of “Act of Redemption” emphasized that I must make Shevata a “lighter” character. (You’re kidding, right?) In the early drafts, she was a much darker character than she is now. (My goodness, all I can do is claim New Author status and “plead the 5^th!”) They guided me in the right direction. As much as I wanted a strong female lead, there’s a difference between strength and darkness. It really doesn’t require a kick-butt for an effective lead character; a classic example would be the little Hobbit Frodo in LOTR.

New authors go forth and write something awesome and tell us about it. For fiction, your lead character doesn’t have to mow down the bad guys with a medieval lawn mower like Shevata does. In some way, your readers must connect with the lead character in order to carry the story.

The Cole Cut I: Thanks to Some Amazing Ladies

2011-12-03T18:05:00.000-08:00

When I first entered cyberspace to promote my first novella, “Act of Redemption” it didn’t take me long to figure out I had no clue what I was doing. I didn’t know where to begin, so I had my publisher do a money-pump that turned out to be well spent: Introduction into the sphere of readers and writers. Amongst the sites they signed me up for were Goodreads, Facebook author page, and Twitter.

Entering this new world of social networking and book promotion made me feel like a ghost, seeing the world move and unable to be a part of it. Facebook for a new author was not easy, and still isn’t. My Goodreads experience was different. But for both sites, some great, accomplished, and brilliant authors were kind enough to welcome me into their world.

Shawn Lamb

Shawn Lamb, author of the Beautiful “Allon” series, and her newest book “The Hugenot Sword,” is an award-winning author, a voice for books suited for kids, and the only virtual friend I’ve met in person. She’s every bit as great for real as in cyberspace. I’ve featured her work and interviewed her earlier this year.

Maureen Miller

Maureen Miller, accomplished romance author, also welcomed me into the writers’ world. She has published many romance books, with beautiful female characters that I wished I looked like. She’s a lot of fun with social networking, and is great on Twitter.

Jennifer Chase

Jennifer Chase, a brilliant criminologist and accomplished author of crime books. One day I’d love to see her on TV documentaries. I admire her courage and intelligence in the horrific world of crime.

The “Cole Cut” will be a series of people and books I’ve encountered on my writing journey, to make a place to look back and thank talented people that made a big difference to me as a new author. I will always remember the generosity of these great ladies. More upcoming!!

Review of “The Unwanted” by Daniel Carter

2011-12-03T17:22:00.000-08:00

“The Unwanted” by Daniel Carter is about a group of infants rescued by a couple of nurses caring for them. They are taken into hiding in America’s rural heartland, with agents on the hunt for the children. As they grow up, the kids become more unusual with rapid aging, each with powerful unique abilities. As more is uncovered, the plot moves quickly to create a fun but intense read that encourages the reader to turn the pages. Excellent work, four stars!

On The Value of Free Books

2011-12-03T12:59:00.000-08:00

On social networking this morning, with some virtual friends, we discussed free books. As I’ve pondered this topic today, the question comes to mind: Are free books a good thing?

I’ve had some interesting experience with giving away books. When I solicit a reviewer (a necessary process for the new author), I offer to send my books. To me, if they were doing unpaid work, why would I expect them to purchase my books? Ah, but alas, what if the reviewer suspects I’m giving them by books in hopes to score a more favorable review? Fortunately, a reviewer never stated to me in correspondence this kind of suspicion, and several reviewers thanked me for sending my books, or respectfully declined for whatever reason. At least they didn’t accept books they weren’t interested in reading. (Also, many reviewers are understandably overwhelmed with books).

Another experience with free books is when I offered them to friends that expressed interest. I’ve been told more than once “No, if it’s free, I probably won’t read it.” What? Really? Do people read more books they purchase than they are given?

To answer this question, I looked at my own book collection. Having a habit of reading what I want, when I want, when someone gives me a free printed book, I get around to reading it some time. With my ebook obsession, even when people email me free books, I tend to download them amazon/smashwords to one of my portable e-readers. I admit, sometimes I’m guilty as well, preferring to purchase books mainly for the format for my devices, not only out of convenience, but I since I post reviews, the author at least gets a sale even if choose not to post a review.

In analysis of the above sentence, here comes a troubling question: So I purchase a book, post a review, does that author “owe me?” Answer: Not from my standpoint. I’ve written before that some authors aren’t willing to go the distance and purchase the books of other authors. Does that mean they lack integrity? Answer: Not from my standpoint. I’ve written before that more solid virtual friendships are built by the good will of purchasing and reviewing one another’s books, but that isn’t a fit for everyone

New authors, we’re not in a position to make demands to potential readers. For the traditionally published authors, at least they have a company behind their work, but on the other hand, they’re at the mercy of it. As Indie writers, our judgment is our own with promotional experts out there to advise us.

Free books? I may make a choice to buy books for an alternative format, but writing/promoting is time and energy consuming enough to not have concern with the motivations of other writers offering to give me their work that cost them great labor, and costs nothing to me. The least anyone can do when you’re given something in good faith is to say “Thank you.” The work of writers has value; sometimes financially, sometimes virtual, and most of the time, their work adds to the human experience of reading.

On the Importance of Original Work

2011-11-29T20:48:00.000-08:00

In the 1990’s, along with the rest of the country, I was a fan of the show “Ally McBeal.” The fifty-pound lead character was cute, the nerd Biscuit lawyer was great, “Ling” was hilarious until it all feel apart to me from estrogen-toxicity. But, years after the show, I still have the first CD soundtrack.

I always liked the after-work scenes, where they could all go blow it out after a hard days’ weird lawsuits. (I admit to a bit of jealousy, never had a job like that). What kept bringing me back to the CD even today are the songs. Some of them are remakes from music artist Vonda Shepard, and some of them are her own written work.

Like films, with music, I attach myself to songs. The songs I liked best from the CD were the original works of Vonda Shepard. When I’ve heard a song done before, it takes a huge awesome performance by the redo-artist to bring me back to the same song. For example, think of the remakes of “Dock of a Bay,” by Otis Redding. Nevermind. Don’t think about it, Otis is irreplaceable.

What does this have to do with the new author? It’s everything. If there’s anything/only thing a new author can bring to the table of a reader/publisher, it’s originality. Big name authors over time often lose their gloss; especially mainstream templates like legal thrillers, murder mysteries, or conspiracy theories.

What about the ongoing YA frenzy? Are these books too much like “Harry Potter?” Some of them remind me of Harry Potter, but in general, new authors I’ve reviewed deviate enough from the mega-hit enough to keep the story fresh. What about the Vampire frenzy? While I don’t gravitate constantly to vampire novels (but I use them as characters too), Diana Trees’ “Divine Wine” was nothing like any vampire story I’ve ever come across. Count Dracula, eat your heart out on that one.

As new authors, we know that blockbuster success is very rare. Does it mean your work isn’t entertaining? No! There’s no scale to weigh the integrity of any novel; it’s all about the audience, exposure, and sometimes, luck. Life isn’t fair. That’s OK, facing reality is part of adulthood. But originality is part of our souls. New authors, as long as you have that, you have something many writers don’t, famous or not.

I still like Vonda Shepard. And I never think of Ally McBeal episodes, except the Dancing Baby. Some things are too great to forget. May the work of new authors be that also.

"Summer" by Ernie's Denial

2011-11-28T04:23:00.000-08:00

New rockers "Ernie's Denial" with a fun vid of their song "Summer." It's got fun music, nice lyrics, and a pretty girl. All the makings of a fun video! Hope you enjoy it.

check out their site:
Ernie's Denial

On Book Turkeys!

2011-11-23T17:31:00.000-08:00

For a little breakaway fun, I’m taking a lighthearted look at a few books that I like, but aspects that I don’t. So I’m using “Turkey” to mean specifics instead of generalizations.

“Gone With The Wind:” Yes, the greatest film ever made, but this is about the book. Scarlett O’Hara, one of the most famous heroines in literary history, can’t get over the one man totally unsuitable for her on every level, and unable to love a rich, handsome man that loves the ground she walks on. In the book, she’s a despicable mother. Scarlett, you’re a Turkey.

“Little Women:” My Mom gave me this book when I was a preteen, and if I had a daughter, I’d have given a copy to her. I love this book. I wanted to be Jo. But I wouldn’t have been so stupid to turn down Laurie. Jo, you’re a Turkey.

“Catch-22:” I sympathized with a Blog Farm article whose author read another one of Joseph Heller’s books and hated it. The huge character cast and the AWOL of the lead character at the end of “Catch-22” doesn’t help carry the inner tragic message of this book. Yossarian, you’re a Turkey.

“Revolutionary Road:” I’ve heralded Richard Yates’ masterpiece many times on this blog, but I’m sorry, with my poverty background, the anguished housewife over her half-decent husband, nice home, nice neighbors, and able to raise her kids is a hard sell to me. I suspect people in other parts of the world would agree. April Wheeler, you’re a Turkey.

“No Country For Old Men:” I make no secret that I read books after films. Cormac McCarthy is considered a great American Literary Treasure, and I don’t contest that at all. But for this book, even he should use quotation marks. Cormac, you’re a Turkey.

“We Were the Mulvaneys:” Why did I read this book? Oh, yes, I saw the film on Lifetime! I hoped the book would be better, and I was kind enough to give it three stars on Goodreads. But what kind of family sends their beautiful, kind teenage daughter away after she was assaulted? Michael and Corine Mulvaney, you are Turkeys.

OK, let me stop before I offend more people than I intend to. I love making fun of myself, so I’ll give it a go:

C.C.Cole: I know this author. She’s one of those people that think she can do anything, so she decided to write a dark fantasy series. She also decided to start smoking after college, and forgot to smoke her Virginia Slims menthol cigarettes after two weeks in her purse. She thinks she’s a Tribble on Twitter. She’s a Turkey.

“Act of Redemption:” C.C.Cole’s first novella of the Gastar Series. It begins with a mean little assassin deciding to rub out some bad guys without a death order. You know, she could have asked. Shevata, you’re a Turkey. (don't tell her I said that).

“Children of Discord:” C.C.Cole’s second of the four novellas in the Gastar Series. A group of vampires summon Shevata against her will hoping they can intimidate her into cooperating with them. How did they think that would really turn out? Vampires, you’re Turkeys.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Should we be Thankful for the “Hot Shots?”

2011-11-22T12:04:00.000-08:00

John Grisham

J.K. Rowling

George R.R.Martin

Stephenie Meyer

As a new author, I read over and over again articles stating how Indies will never get sales and notoriety given to bestselling authors with larger-than-life size features in our local bookstores and on line. According to some, we’re just dreamers making fools of ourselves chasing dreams.

I don’t buy into the naysayers, but I’m not deluded into thinking my self-published books will suddenly reach Harry Potter fame tomorrow, or the day after tomorrow. But am I sorry for writing my books? Answer: No way! I enjoy what I do, and I enjoy interacting with other authors.

So what about the “Big Time Writers” or “Hot Shot” bestseller writers of today? Should we criticize them from dark angry corners of the Internet? Why did they get the “big break” and we new authors did not? What makes their work special?

Better question: Do these successful writers block our success as independent new authors? I don’t think so. Somehow, I don’t believe someone came across my high-rated novella “Act of Redemption” to pass for a copy of “A Game of Thrones.” Both are dark fantasy, but the publicity of the work of George R. R. Martin is no comparison regardless of how much I spend in ads and promotion, how much I tweet, or how many authors’ groups I join. That’s the way it is.

Instead of scoffing at the writers who’ve “made it,” we new authors can learn from them. Many of them write incredible books. Others write books that we may not like, but had the “hook” to get the attention of the traditional publishing industry, which like it or not remains the avenue of more sales, though day by day Indie writers are making their way into the devices of readers.

On Thanksgiving, I’m thankful for my faith, family, and friends, including the virtual people I’ve met. Of course, I'm thankful for my readers and those who've helped me promote my work. I’m also thankful for the authors I’ve read, who teach me with every book, regardless of genre. That’s not just my Indie colleagues, or the classic authors of the past. The successful writers of today have a lot to teach us new authors as well.

Review of “Caring for Eleanor” by Sonia Rumzi

2011-11-22T11:13:00.000-08:00

“Caring for Eleanor” is a well-written character study about the complexities of co-dependency in women. A young mother becomes a caretaker for sick and elderly people and through them she realizes the troubles of her own home, and takes the needed steps required to gain her own confidence, her happiness, and the independence to care for her own children. The smooth prose reels in the reader with strong emotional connections to the characters that we’ve met in our own lives. Excellent work, Five stars!

Review of “Bushfire” by Paul Anthony

2011-11-22T11:10:00.000-08:00

“Bushfire” by Paul Anthony is about the illegal drug industry in 1990’s spanning Ireland, Portugal, and across the ocean to South American connections. This complex, well-written crime story follows layers of characters, from the criminals, the law enforcement, and the go-betweens as they make plans and interact with each other, making a non-stop story that is almost impossible to put down. I highly recommend this novel to readers that enjoy being pulled into the dangerous, intense world of international crime fighting. Five stars!

On Strong Characterization and the New Author

2011-11-21T03:27:00.000-08:00

As a lifetime nerd, I admit to being a big fan of Sci-Fi TV series, with “Dr. Who” (Tom Baker, of course, though I liked David Tennant more recently) and “Blake’s 7” on my short list of favorites. On a day net-surfing for DVD’s of the old “Blake’s 7” series, I was irritated by the fact I couldn’t get the series that could be shown on visual devices in the US. Yes, I spent a summer in London, fried my blow dryer with one of those 220/120 AC adapters, but somehow forgot that our small appliances are incompatible.

Since I couldn’t get something I wanted instantly (what an outrage!) I began thinking about why I liked the series so much. After a minimal amount of reading and YouTube cruising, the answer was quite simple: The characters. It was not the cartoon-like effects, not the costumes, not the episodes, but the show as a whole. When I think of “Blake’s 7,” I think about the characters: Smart-aleck Avon, rebellious Blake, competent Dana, Blake-follower Jenna, beautiful Soolin, and the show-stealer evil, love-to-hate Servalan. Though the series was short-lived, it got critical acclaim because of strong characterization.

How do we define “strong characterization?” Answer: Making characters memorable. My TV obsession later evolved into film preference. Following any film or novel, I ask myself which characters do I remember the most. Be it a large or small part, protagonist or antagonist, I like characters that I remember.

While in fiction we need a touch of realism (sometimes), it need not be so realistic that we’re experiencing a conversation over the weather in the workplace. What I find in strong characters is not necessarily a tough kick-butt, but a consistent character able to keep his/her gloss. The reader gets to know them well enough to predict their actions, but still enough left unknown for the unexpected.

A question in my novellas often comes up that I don’t develop all of the characters as thoroughly as others. But in a non-epic action novella, there’s only a little room and a few words to work with. I develop the lead characters, but the supporting characters dictate their actions. For example, in “Children of Discord,” Shevata was moved to take her first steps to re-claim her humanity after witnessing the relationship between lesser-developed characters Peter, Emeria, and Stephen.

Of the endless great experiences of reading, I continue to appreciate the various methods writers use to enhance the story. Some authors create beautiful backdrops; others create horror that make me jump out of my chair, (“Seed” by Ania Ahlborn). But when all is said and done, to me, it’s the characters we remember the most, and they follow us as we create our own worlds for our readers.