Chick Lit Goddess

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Why I’ve Decided To Self-Publish

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On my blog post yesterday (click HERE to read it), I happily announced that I’ve decided to self-publish my books.  I’m very excited about this journey and know it will be hard work, but the end will be worth it because I will be a published author!

While Indie/Self-published authors sometimes get a bad wrap because of bad editing, bad formatting, cheesy book covers…the list could go on, I support them because they’ve made their dreams come true of becoming an author.  However, those who do follow the rules of self-publishing seem to have a greater chance of becoming a #1 Bestseller on Amazon, for example.  (I have a friend who has a screen shot of her book being at #1, which is right beside Stephen King).  I’ve had the pleasure of reading and reviewing quite a few self-published books and while there’s been a lot of wonderful stories with great characters, it’s how the book was formatted that I paid most attention to, only because I have a tendency to be OCD about layouts, (here’s to hoping that when my books are published there won’t be any formatting issues).

Some might even say that they decide to self-publish because they’re afraid of rejection.  Am I afraid of rejection?  Yes, but in a good way.  I think being rejected (in any form) is just another sign of getting to where your meant to be.  Isn’t like breaking up with someone (rejection), only to find “the one” (published)?  My fear of rejection has nothing  to do with rejection.

Back to why I want to self-publish…I want to be in charge!  From formatting, cover design, and marketing, I want it all!  I want to learn the self-publishing business (yes, it’s a business within itself), so isn’t self-publishing a book the best way to do it?  Yes!

How do I plan on going about it?  I’ve purchased books (the “Self-Publishing for Dummies” book is a great resource that I will probably read at least five times), and I have huge support from my Twitter and Facebook friends, especially those in my Chick Lit Goddesses group.

Will this be a tough task, absolutely!  I know that I’ll be so OCD that I’ll probably have my husband look over it a hundred times before the release date, just to make sure that I did it right.  I know that I’ll be stressed, won’t sleep, and will have butterflies in my stomach through the process, but there is a positive side to all of this.

While I’ve had a wonderful life (a delightful and happy childhood, my family is supportive of everything that I do, I’m married to the love of my life, and I have true friends), I can’t remember being happier with this decision to self-publish.  And, with everything I’ve been through (I won’t bore you with the ups and downs), I was meant to be a writer, no, make that an author.  I was meant to be an author.

Pop open the Veuve Cliquot, because it’s time to celebrate!

Why I’m Not Participating In NaNoWriMo!

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Happy November!

The past few months have had their ups and downs, but beginning today, things will be back to normal…thank goodness!

This is my favorite month – the cool weather (not cold because I live in Texas), snuggling with my hubby and cat, Thanksgiving (my favorite holiday), and usually a good football game, though the Cowboys aren’t doing so well…but that’s for another blog post – I love it all!

For writers all across the world, November 1st is the beginning of National Novel Writing Month, (NaNoNoWriMo).  This is where one writes a complete book in 30 days.  To find out more about my first experience with NaNoWriMo, click HERE.

Anyway, while I want desperately to take part in NaNo, I know I can write a book – in fact, I’ve written two of them – it’s time for me to focus on my next step, becoming a published author.  This means that I need to focus on the editing process, which at times can be very tedious, but there’s good news!  As of next week, I will have an office – one I’ll have to drive to – and will be able to center my complete attention on work.  My goal is to have edits finished with at least one book by the end of the year!  Wish me luck!

**Now, for a little announcement:  I’ve decided to self-publish!

**Why?  Come back for a new blog post tomorrow morning!

Rose McClelland

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You’ve now written two books.  How does it feel to be an author?   I feel very grateful. I have been writing for a long time so it’s lovely to have my book ‘out there’ and to hear that people are enjoying it. That’s lovely.

If you weren’t an author, what would you be?   I quite fancy the idea of being a librarian. I’m quite sure it would involve lots of putting the feet up and reading, wouldn’t it?

How did you celebrate your 1st and 2ndbook being published?  Launch day for Book 1 – I met friends for lunch in a gorgeous restaurant with a high ceiling dome. Never mind the ceiling; I was as high as a kite. The book had gone into the Top 100 by 1pm. In the evening, I went for dinner with friends.  By 10pm, I was exhausted, but in a good way.

The following night, I had loads of friends round to my apartment to watch a light show. It was an event organized to celebrate the opening of the Titanic museum – they couldn’t have timed it better if you asked me.

Launch of Book 2 – I will meet friends for lunch & then go out for dinner with friends in the evening.  I like to celebrate as much as possible, can you tell?

People would be surprised to know that you…?  I can’t drive!  I tell people that this is because I lived in London for years where everyone used the tube. But the truth is; I’m too scared to learn!

What’s it like in a day of Rose McClelland?  If it’s a writing day, I get up early, put the kettle on and switch on the laptop.  I’m at my laptop drinking my coffee before I even have time to say ‘morning’.  Pyjamas on and not a scrap of make-up; I write my ‘morning pages’.  These are three pages of anything that comes into your head. It’s a technique devised by Julia Cameron to help you get past the fear and get on with it.

After that, I pour another coffee and make breakfast. I get out my book notes and look at what I’m going to write next.  Usually in a previous session, I’ve made a rough sketch of what the next scene will be.

So, still in my pyjamas, I’ll crack on and write that scene.  I pretend I’m just watching what the characters are up to and I just write it down.  It doesn’t have to be funny or brilliant or clever, I’m just recording what’s happening. Most of the time, it turns out okay.

After I write the scene, I do a bit of exercise, have a bath, and make lunch.

In the afternoon, I’ll go shopping or meet friends. And in the evening, I’ll go out to the cinema /theatre or have friends over.

What is your favorite part of the writing and/or editing process?   My favorite part is when I’m about halfway through the first draft; when I’m starting to get to know the characters well. From that point on, the writing comes easily and the words gallop along.  It’s the editing that’s a bit harder…

Hardback, paperback or eBooks?   Ebooks – definitely. Hardbacks are too heavy. Even paperbacks are too much to lug around. But a kindle – now that can just slip into your handbag no problem. I also love the ‘sample’ option – it allows me to get a good idea of the style of the book before I’ll consider buying it.  And then of course, once I decide to buy it, it’s there immediately!

What is your favorite word? Why?   Autumnal – Isn’t that lovely? It evokes an atmosphere of copper leaves; romantic walks; being wrapped up in a warm scarf and gloves; puppy trotting along.

What motivates you to keep writing and/or editing when writer’s block hits?  If I get stuck in a story, I will ‘go back to the drawing board’ – looking at the overall plot – the beginning, middle and end. I’ll try to stand back from the picture and wonder what else the characters would have done. It’s important to take a step back and ‘watch’. I try to observe what my characters are up to.

In terms of motivation, it can be hard to write if you’ve just received a knock-back.  If this is the case, you have to remind yourself why you write – because you enjoy it, because it’s a pleasurable past-time, because it’s a fun way to express yourself.  When you write for the process, rather than just the outcome, then you experience the joy of it again.

What is your favorite editing, reading or writing accessory?   My ear-plugs! I would be lost without them. I need perfect peace and quiet to write!

How would you spend your perfect day?   I would wake up late (next to some Adonis creature of course); I’d have coffee and croissants (in an ideal world I wouldn’t be wheat intolerant). I’d sit at my desk looking out over the river writing (that bit does happen). I’d then get dressed up (selecting from a range of gorgeous clothes) and head off into town where I’d meet fabulous friends for lunch and shopping. In the evening I’d head to the theatre or cinema with my Adonis creature (no, scrap that, he’s too busy looking at himself – just a normal bloke) and we’d have a lovely evening chatting and laughing.

Can you tell us about any upcoming projects, or do you have anything you’d like to share?   I’m writing my fourth novel at the moment. It’s set in the theatre world and it’s all about the sizzling chemistry that goes on behind the scenes. I love writing it!

**Contact Rose!

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**Click HERE to read my review of “How To Look Like You!

Monarch Beach

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Book review of “Monarch Beach”

“Monarch Beach,” by Anita Hughes

When a mom, Amanda Blick sees her sexy French chef husband, Andre, wrapped around his sous-chef, she’s heartbroken.  When her mother urges Amanda and her son, Max, to get a change of scenery with her at St. Regis Resort in Laguna Beach, she agrees to go to Laguna Beach.  She needed to get away from him for the summer and think about her future.  Instead of simply relaxing, doing her best to keep her mind off of Andre, Amanda meets a handsome older man who sweeps her away.  Also divorced, Edward teaches Amanda that there can be a life after Andre…until his loyalties are to be questioned.

There had been a lot of talk about “Monarch Beach,” so I put it on my to-read list.  When I was asked to review it I jumped at the chance.  From the first sentence to the last, “Monarch Beach” drew me into Amanda’s world.  Through her ups and downs with Andre and Edward, the book was very enjoyable.  With all the twists and turns — especially at the end, I literally couldn’t put this book down.  If I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about planning my own getaway to the St. Regis Resort, hoping to create my own journey.  The characters were very likable, even Andre tried to fool me, but I loved Amanda.  She was a devoted mom who just wanted to do the best for her son after her marriage failed.  I  liked Amanda’s mom and thought that she played a very enjoyable and loving role.  Like Amanda’s character, I loved how she evolved, too.  The ending will leave you aching for more, (I’m really hoping for a continuation with these characters)!

Anita Hughes is a brilliant author who has written a book I loved!  “Monarch Beach” is a funny, heartwarming and sexy read, and I recommend it to anyone who wants a delightful, addicting and fast-paced summer read.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars!

**Click HERE to read my interview with Anita Hughes!

Dreaming of Him

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Book Review for “Dreaming of Him”

“Dreaming of Him,” by Wendy Ely

While awake, Amber is a very lonely woman and her life is at a dead-end.  Nothing can make her feel better, not even a makeover, but it’s different when she’s asleep.  A man from her past, Trace, enters her dreams and sweeps her off her feet.  When Amber wakes up, she realizes that it was a dream (a very hot one), because she knows that Trace is dead.  He tries to communicate with Amber through her dreams and watches over her, wanting her to know just how much she meant to him before he died.  His spirit moves her keys so she won’t be late for work and turns off the lights when she comes home drunk, closing her eyes, aching to be with him.  Only in her dreams, can they fall in love with one another, but he won’t let her go out the easy way to be with him!  That’s when he saves her from making a big mistake…

Admit it, you can’t stop staring at the cover, can you?  Neither can I!  When I won this book, I was thrilled.  Wanting to take break from my normal reads one weekend, I began reading Dreaming of Him.  Right away, I was drawn into a whole new world.  Wendy Ely’s descriptions were written so clear, that I felt as if I were Amber, wanting to dream of Trace!  The storyline was believable, especially for a woman like Amber, who has very little confidence.  I loved Trace!  He was gentle and he didn’t give up on Amber.  While I wish this book wasn’t so short, I loved it because it wasn’t the typical romance book with spirits or ghosts — it’s a true love story!  If you’re looking for a sweet, spicy book over the summer, this is the book for you!

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars!

**Buy the book!:

All Romance

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Google Play

**An interview with the author, Wendy Ely, is coming soon!

For the Love of Goals…

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The past few months have been so busy and I’ve neglected my blogging friends.  For this, I apologize, but I have two exciting things to share!  Before I explain, here’s what’s coming up:

  • Friday, June 22nd, I’ll post my review of “Dreaming of Him,” by Wendy Ely, a soon-to-be guest.
  • Saturday, June 23rd, I’ll post my review of “Now You See Her,” by James Patterson
  • Friday, June 29th, I’ll post my review of “Monarch Beach,” by Anita Hughes
  • Thursday, July 12th, Paula Tiberus will be a guest
  • Thursday, July 26th, I’ll post my review of “What A Texas Girl Wants” and interview with the author, Kristina Knight
  • Saturday, August 18th, I’ll post my review of “Viewer Discretion Advised,” by Cindy Roesel
  • Saturday, August 25, I’ll post my review of “Fatty Patty,” by Kathleen Paterka
  • Wednesday, September 12th, I’ll post my review of “Breaking the Rules” and interview with the author, Cat Lavoie
Exciting stuff, huh?  Well, be sure to check back daily, because you won’t want to miss anything!

Now, for the exciting news! 

Beginning the first week in September, I will be back to blogging six days a week!  I’ve started realizing that I’m now paying as much attention to my own books as I should.  Don’t get me wrong, I love reviewing, but I want to really focus on making my dream a reality.  I want to be an author!  I will still have guests and post reviews, but not as often — at least for the rest of the year.  **Note: If you’d like me to review something, please still don’t hesitate — I’m sure we can work out something.

Now, for some really, really exciting news, Chick Lit Goddess is getting a facelift, (and I’m not just talking a little Botox here or there — I’m talking about liposuction and a breast augmentation, to go along with a new personality).  I’m very excited about this adventure and hope you like/love the changes that will be made.

In the meantime, your well wishes are appreciated…

It’s Fun Friday

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I don’t know about you, but deciding what’s for lunch is often the most difficult part of my day.  Monday through Friday, I open my refrigerator, freezer and pantry and just stare, hoping something will catch my eye.  I have nothing to eat, I complain.  The truth is, I have a lot of food, but nothing stands out.  It’s times like this that I will reopen the freezer and pull out a Lean Cuisine or Smart Ones.  I find that’s it’s a lot easier than cooking for one since the hubby’s at work and it’s healthy, so they’re what I settle on.  While I guess the frozen meals aren’t so bad (trust me, they’ve come a long way and no longer taste like cardboard), I’ve started to get bored with them, (I can only add so much Cholula to spice it up a bit!).  My other option for lunch is to have a meal replacement shake, like Shakeology, but I prefer to have them for breakfast since I’m really not a breakfast eater.

I have tried to find a healthy cookbook for one, but it seems like there are tons of ingredients to chop, sauté, cook, leave on simmer…the list could go on for a long time!   THIS is the only recipe I’ve made for lunch, then used the leftovers for dinner with whatever we had that night, (if you like Chipotle, then you’ll like this — it tastes so good).

While I enjoy cooking, I don’t have the time.  It’s important for writer’s to stay focused, so if I’m cooking how can I concentrate on my work without slashing my finger open with a knife?  Grr!

What do you eat for lunch?  Do you have any easy, quick recipes for one?  If now, do you have any comments, solutions, or even advice?

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!

Cleaning & Organizing…

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Over a year ago the hubby and I moved back into our newly renovated home, and it’s beautiful.  We’ve had fun organizing and playing with (and in) the new parts of the house, but never really opened back up the old part, making it into one home — until recently.  Our front door was blue to begin with, and we wanted a change.  We sanded for a few hours, then stopped, letting it go not very pretty for a long time.  Just this past weekend, we finished…and it’s so pretty!  The paint color we ended up with is called “Stolen Kiss,” (perfect name, don’t ya’ think?).  After the door was finished, we started (cleaning out, throwing out/away and organizing) the rest of the house.  Our first task was our “reading room,” (A.K.A. “where we put everything else”).  Step-by-step through our organization, we made huge progress — and still are!  In the past four days, we’ve bought five of these bookshelves from Office Depot, each under $50 dollars!  Now, comes the fun part!  My amazing, handsome, loving and funny husband brought home a barcode scanner, (yes, like from the stores) and we’ve scanned almost every book in our house and put them on our new shelves so we can record every book we have in our house.  (I swear, he has a way to do everything!)  While it’s been quite and eye-opening experience to see all the books I have in their place, it’s mind-boggling of what to do with them.  I have so many different type of books that it seems more like a bookstore than a home, but I’m okay with that because I love bookstores — ha, ha!

How do you suggest putting the books in order?

I’ve Been Busy…

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Last night was my first post in a long time!  Whew!  It’s been a busy few weeks since I’ve blogged, but it’s all been for a good reason!  With editing books one and two, hosting guests, reading for tours and writing my contribution articles for GHG, life gets busy.  Add a loving husband and very needy cat to the mix and it’s even more hectic (but only some of the time).

Here’s a small summary of in detail what’s been going on…

–Editing: I’m still in the process of editing my first and second book.  Book one, Redefined Dreams, needed A LOT of work, but I’m seeming a glimmer of light.  With my other book, The Right Design, I just finished the first quick run through, but now it’s time to focus on making this what I want it to be!

–Guests: I’ve had the pleasure of having Guests stop by Chick Lit Goddess, (click HERE to see all their posts).  Like I’ve mentioned before, all of them inspire me.

–Reading and Tours: When I was asked to take part in my first Chick Lit Plus Blog Tour, I jumped at the chance. I’ve been a huge fan of CLP for quite long time, and I love Samantha — she’s an awesome woman!  If you ever want to take part of a tour, I recommend it!  (Let me know if y’all have any questions if you’re interested in more information on these tours).

–Contributions for GHG: If you’ve not checked out my contributing articles at Good Humor Girl, come check it out!  You won’t want to miss out!