Fantasy writers and readers have a reputation for being just slightly soft in the head. I mean, what adult believes in magic? But wait a moment. All forms of writing ask for a suspension of disbelief by the reader, and there are elements of “magic” in most genres. That’s the joy of reading. By creating an imaginary world for us, the writer pushes us towards a sense of wonder. But it is easy for an author to overuse the readers’ belief in the more wonderful story elements. Since they are…well…magical, authors may think they don’t have to follow the usual rules. But use of magic has rules of its own, because that is where the writer is in the most danger of pushing readers into disbelief. The following are a few principles of writing “magic” of all sorts that authors might wish to consider. Continue reading “Are You Overusing “Magic” in Your Writing?”
Month: June 2015
Could Researching My Book Get Me in Trouble?
I took a day trip with the freckle-faced girl recently to the United States. We live in Canada, a few miles from the border, so occasionally Costco’s ice cream or some other worthy endeavor calls to us. I’m in charge of the shopping cart duties and with some minor instruction I usually manage to fulfill my obligation. We have a Nexus pass that allows us to get into the fast lane when we cross. This makes the process easier, but, even with my youthful transgressions occurring many moons ago, and nary even a speeding ticket to my name in years, I still get a bit nervous when I reach that little window. I keep thinking there’s something that I’ve forgotten to mention, and the border guard will click his little mouse, and check his computer screen. His eyes will light up like a UFO saucer and I’ll have some explaining to do. Continue reading “Could Researching My Book Get Me in Trouble?”
EMP Publishing Seeks Creepy Campfire Stories
EMP Publishing is currently accepting submissions for its anthology entitled Creepy Campfire Stories for Grownups. Stories should be a minimum of 1500 words, a maximum of 6000 words, and should be twisted and depraved. The editors want to be shocked, disgusted, and terrified. They are looking for EXTREME horror.
Deadline: September 1, 2015
Entry Fee: Free
Prizes: Payment for accepted stories will be $0.04¢ per word. Limit is $240 per story.
For more information, please visit their website.
Indies Unlimited is pleased to provide this contest information for the convenience of our readers. We do not, however, endorse this or any contest/competition. Entrants should always research a competition prior to entering.
My Book Is Being Pirated! What Can I Do?
You’ve published your book, and as many authors do, you Google it periodically to see where it might pop up. Is it on Barnes and Noble yet? How about Kobo? As you scan the search results an unfamiliar site stands out. We’ll call it IStealBooks.com. (At the time of this writing, that wasn’t a real website. Let’s hope it’s still not.)
A quick search of the site shows your book is indeed listed, complete with a big, red, FREE DOWNLOAD button. Someone is giving your hard work away for free! Panic sets in. What should you do now? Continue reading “My Book Is Being Pirated! What Can I Do?”