Recently, I’ve been asked if my short story is available through Barnes and Noble. The answer is yes. It’s available online only and in paperback form. The Kindle version will be available soon.

Thanks to the people who sent me messages inquiring!

I find it hard having to be critical on other people’s work because they are trying so hard. But as book reviewers, we cannot sugarcoat our opinions. In turn, being honest is what makes the book reviewing process intense. We all have strong opinions about the material that it is almost a debate. At the same time, we are offending the writer. I try not to offend because it’s not right – at least in my eyes. I’m truthful with my input, but I am sensitive to the author’s feelings. On the other hand, some reviewers could care less. They are harsh. Yikes! I cringe. But, I guess that is the nature of the beast.

This whole book reviewing thing is new to me, but I am enjoying every minute of it. I just hope the aspiring author’s do not get discouraged with our (brutal) feedback.

When I was younger, I feared challenges and new opportunities. I wanted them so badly, but when the time came to step up to the plate, I was a nervous wreck. I allowed fear to take control of me. I would never follow through; I would never finish what I started. I feared that I wasn’t good enough. After a while, my behavior irritated me that I decided to make a change.I began accepting the challenges even though I still had the fear within me. Of course I had my share  failures – still do. But at the end of the day, I welcomed the challenges and gave to the fullest of my potential.

Just recently, I accepted a couple of writing projects that scares me a little. Not because I cannot perform the tasks, but because I am afraid of not living up to certain expectations. However, I am still going for it. Why not? What do I have to lose? I plan on giving it all I have. If it works, fantastic. If it doesn’t, at least I tried.

Fear isn’t a comfortable feeling – it paralyzes us from moving forward. We lose opportunities because of it. How many of you have lost opportunities because fear has gotten in the way? How many of you regret missing out on those opportunities?

Well, as I sat in silence on my deck one sunny afternoon, I created a list of things I WANT to do and a list of things I NEED to do. I admit this list has helped me significantly in the short period of time.

On the want list, I wrote down novel #2 and a deadline – an unrealistic deadline. I desperately want to start and finish novel #2, but there is no way I can reach that goal without producing a rushed and messed up novel. That’s not the answer. I asked myself, “What’s the rush?” I had no answer. There is no rush. Therefore, I am taking my time.

My greatest desire is to create a novel worthy enough for a literary agent. A Second Chance was not given a chance by any literary agent; therefore, I want to dig in further and figure out exactly what they are looking for. I want to strike gold with an agent willing to represent me. Sadly, I do not have the time to attend as many writing conferences as I wish I could. And it’s not because I lack motivation. However, reading blogs from aspiring authors, published authors and literary agents, I am sure I will get a sense of what it is agents are looking for. I do not want to self-publish this time around. I will in the future for short stories, not for novels. I want to take a different approach with this book, especially since this book is close to home. My first one was, too. Nevertheless, there is something special about this book that I want to make it flourish and not sit on a shelf collecting dust.

I learnt that taking more than you can handle can go two ways: it can work just fine or be a total failure. Therefore, before I went down the failure path, I pulled the reins in on me. Without organization, not much will get done.

Something Unexpected – A Childhood Poem

In my case, the supporters I am referring to are the group of people who read not only my books or other writings, but my journey – a journey that isn’t an easy one. I choose to document my journey as a self-publisher and freelance writer for inspiration. It’s a way of giving something to others who are trying to develop their dreams into something real. There may be times when they are about to give up, but I want them to keep on holding on.

Today, I received a simple yet beautiful message on Facebook from an extraordinary illustrator. She said I am her inspiration. I had no idea she saw me in that light, but I am beyond delighted. I’m grateful that I have that impact on people.

If you have a moment of course, please read the article. Feel free to comment there or on here, vote and share. I would love to read your input and engage in conversation. I appreciate the support!

How to put a stop to greediness

This is a fascinating opportunity for both book reviewers and authors. We read fresh material and provide the aspiring authors with useful feedback, and the author gains knowledge of what readers anticipate, tweak aspects of their manuscript or do nothing at all.

Some of the book reviewers are also aspiring authors or established authors. We, too, gain a lot of knowledge from reading soon to be published books and feedback from others who reviewed the same book. We are educating one another on what to do and what not to do in the writing process. It’s fun, informative and beneficial for all of us involved. I see it as a win, win situation.