Category: Authors on Tour

Authors on Tour, Uncategorized, Virtual Book Tour

The Disappearing Dolphins by Jennifer Kelman with Jordyn & Kyle Kelman, Illustrated by Michael Swaim Virtual Book Tour

As an author in this economy, you have to come up with creative ways to market a self-published book. While book tours are a great way to connect with your readers, they aren’t the most affordable method of promotion. However, technology has made it possible for an alternative.

Take note from self-publishing Outskirts Press author, Jennifer Kelman with Jordyn & Kyle Kelman, Illustrated by Michael Swaim, who is taking their latest book, The Disappearing Dolphins, on tour – a virtual book tour, that is. They will be featured on several blogs over the weeks and months ahead so keep your eyes peeled to learn more about them and their book.

Luckily for us, Jennifer was kind enough to answer a few questions as the tour was getting started so that we can give you a sneak peek into the mind of the creator of The Disappearing Dolphins.

The Disappearing Dolphins book cover

OP: Tell us a little bit about The Disappearing Dolphins. What is it about?

Jennifer: A lovely tale of young twins on a “usual” trip to the beach.  Today was different; Kevin’s great imagination was playing tricks on him, or was it?  He believed that each time he looked up he saw beautiful dolphins springing into the air. He nudged his twin sister, Jackie, in the hope she would see it too, but each time she looked up, they were gone.  Was Kevin left wondering?  No, at the perfect moment, Jackie looked up to see the most wonderful sight…..five graceful dolphins shining in delight.  The adventure continues as they board a boat and feed the dolphins.  The tale is about imagination, trust, the sibling (twin) relationship and sticking to your beliefs.  The illustrations bring this story to life and capture the beauty and wonderment of children and nature.

OP: Why did you decide to write this story?

Jennifer: This is my third children’s book.  My first departure from the award winning Mrs. Pinkelmeyer book series.  This story came tumbling from me after a few weeks of my twins being sick.  Not feeling particularly creative, I began to weave this story and was truly surprised as I watched my kids begin to feel refreshed and happy.  It was at that moment that we all decided together to make the story of The Disappearing Dolphins into a book.

OP: What types of readers would be interested in this story?

Jennifer: This is a great story for parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and teachers to read to their kids.  Using fun and silly intonations while reading aloud, the listener can appreciate the frustration in Jackie and the desire in Kevin.  This book appeals to 4-6 year olds and maybe a bit older as they read the book to themselves.

OP: What is special about your book?  What differentiates it from other books in the same category?

Jennifer: The book is special because of the subtle messages…believe in yourself, imagine and it can be, the sibling (twin) relationship and the love of nature.  It is special because the story is woven in such a way that highlights all of these aspects.  The reader remains engaged and isn’t exactly sure if Jackie will ever see The Disappearing Dolphins.  I believe that the illustrations by Michael Swaim, set this book apart from others.  His gift is unparalleled.

I am also in the process of co-writing a song, The Disappearing Dolphins, which will be available on ITunes, to complement the book.  This song, a catchy, sing-a-long, is certain to stay stuck in your head all day long.

OP: Have you published any other books? Do you plan to publish more?

Jennifer: This is my 3rd book.  My first two belong to the Mrs. Pinkelmeyer book series.

I created two children’s characters; Mrs. Pinkelmeyer® and her lovable dog, Moopus McGlinden®. Together, they inspire self-esteem in children through their love, warmth and silliness.  I have also created a full product line including a plush doll, a Moopus McGlinden stuffed animal, a music CD and 2 books.  Mrs. Pinkelmeyer and Moopus McGlinden Burn the Rrrrump Rrrroast and Mrs. Pinkelmeyer and Moopus McGlinden Prance into New York City.  Available on Amazon.com and www.MrsPinkelmeyer.com

 

I will continue to write and publish more books when the light of creativity strikes again.

 

OP: Thanks for your time, Jennifer! We look forward to learning more about you as you visit other bloggers!

The Disappearing Dolphins Author Jennifer Kelman with Jordyn & Kyle Kelman, Illustrated by Michael SwaimABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jennifer Kelman is a licensed clinical social worker, life coach, author, and entrepreneur. She enjoys cycling and tennis, and finds endless creative inspiration from her young twins. She is the author of the award-winning Mrs. Pinkelmeyer® series featuring the lovable dog Moopus McGlinden®. The Disappearing Dolphins is her third children’s book. For more information about Jennifer and her book, please contact the author at NIFJK6@gmail.com or 561-899-7192

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For more information or to contact the author, visit www.outskirtspress.com/thedisappearingdolphins

This author purchased the Virtual Book Tour marketing option, which allows self-publishing authors to connect with bloggers and harness the power of the blogosphere by taking their book on the “virtual road”.  Learn more about this service by visiting your Publishing Center and reviewing the available marketing options.

Are you an author looking for help to market your self-published book?

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Authors on Tour, Uncategorized, Virtual Book Tour

The Norskvall Saga: The End of Youth by Michael the Red Virtual Book Tour

As an author in this economy, you have to come up with creative ways to market a self-published book. While book tours are a great way to connect with your readers, they aren’t the most affordable method of promotion. However, technology has made it possible for an alternative.

Take note from self-publishing Outskirts Press author, Michael the Red, who is taking his latest book, The Norskvall Saga: The End of Youth, on tour – a virtual book tour, that is. He will be featured on several blogs over the weeks and months ahead so keep your eyes peeled to learn more about him and his book.

Luckily for us, Michael was kind enough to answer a few questions as the tour was getting started so that we can give you a sneak peek into the mind of the creator of The Norskvall Saga: The End of Youth.

The Norskvall Saga: The End of Youth book cover

OP: Tell us a little bit about The Norskvall Saga: The End of Youth. What is it about?

Michael: It is basically about two grandchildren of the Norse goddess Frigg finding out what they can really do on their own. Starting just four years after the end of the last book, Anders decides it is time to begin to fulfil his vow that he would save the dark elf Nixius from her death even though she had been an apprentice to a great evil. He suspects that she ended up in Hel’s domain after she died. When his cousin Raghilde receives Nixius’ crystal ball from her father it gives them some clues, which are later confirmed by Nixius’ own mother who sends a nephew to find them when they pass close to an Ancient Path between worlds. She also wishes to have her daughter and son back who were killed by Loki and the cousin’s white wolf. With her help she is able to send them on the quest to return her children from death. Through the course of their adventure they find out that Raghilde’s crystal ball is actually The Orb of the Dark Elves, an ancient relic of their people which has laid dormant for tens of thousands of years after it was taken by the high elves and subsequently stolen by Nixius. Somehow, though she is not a dark elf, the orb ‘awakens’ for Raghilde and she is able to harness its power to advance their quest. In the end she is confronted with another truth, that she was destined to lead the dark elves out of their caves and give their world back to them which had been taken by the high elves.

Although the book is the second of a series it could easily be read as a standalone since much of the information from the first book is reintroduced through new characters.

OP: Why did you decide to write this story?

Michael: A very good question that isn’t easily answerable. Partly it came from boredom on Saturday afternoons. Another part of it was the first stories appeared on the Asgard-saga.com website and I received lots of encouragement to get them published. Unfortunately the website is no longer up and running anymore.

OP: What types of readers would be interested in this story?

Michael: Although the book is being advertised as a coming of age tale, anyone who has interest in the Norse gods or just fantasy adventure in general would find something in it for themselves. There are plenty of elements of mystery and intrigue for just about any age. What is it like in Hel’s halls? If you know very little about the Norse pantheon of gods you will know far more after reading it.

The story is very complexed; however, I wouldn’t be so pretentious to say that it takes a college degree to figure it out. It certainly doesn’t. The last couple of chapters explain many questions the reader may still have and, hopefully, leave them wanting to know more. There is good reason the last words of the book are, “The End and a New Beginning.”

OP: What is special about your book?  What differentiates it from other books in the same category?

Michael: It is a Viking love story in a classic sense without the flowery language. One thing I have often heard when talking to people who have read my writings is that I do manage to keep the story moving along at a good pace. I do not believe in long and drawn out character monologues or taking five pages just to describe a setting or person. I find it far better that reader discovers who the characters are through their actions and words.

One things that was really fun for me is having an entire world, the dark elf home world of Svartlheim, to build upon and use for further stories. There is next to nothing mentioned about them in the Norse sagas. The world is more than likely not what the reader would think it is, bleak and foreboding. Fairies live there too and thrive. The considerations you have to give to something like that are truly immense. Such as, who are the dark elves and why should the reader care about them? Of that there are many reasons and the high elves aren’t the Tolkien type. Why should they be? They also need to have a history that is their own, which reflects in how the past affected the current day. They didn’t even have a standing army or someone to lead them until Raghilde showed up one hundred thousand years after their last king predicted her coming.

OP: Have you published any other books? Do you plan to publish more?

Michael: This is the second book in a series. The first was simply titled The Norskvall Saga and is available through Amazon and other online outlets. Though there are now two books in the series, how many more there might be I can’t really say for sure. As of now I already have three more books mostly done. I say ‘mostly’ because there are always other new ideas that can be slipped into them and it is great being so far ahead of the curve that they can have small changes added. As far as ending the series, there was one definite ending I was looking at and now, well, let’s just say that the more I look at the saga the more possibilities I discover.

OP: Thanks for your time, Michael! We look forward to learning more about you as you visit other bloggers!

The Norskvall Saga: The End of Youth Author Michael the RedABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Michael the Red is a fantasy author who has been creating stories and adventures for nearly thirty years. An avid fan of Viking history his own Norse heritage can be traced back over two thousand years. As a lifelong resident of Minnesota he enjoys writing, fishing and taking long walks in the lush forests of his native state.

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For more information or to contact the author, visit www.outskirtspress.com/thenorskvallsaga

This author purchased the Virtual Book Tour marketing option, which allows self-publishing authors to connect with bloggers and harness the power of the blogosphere by taking their book on the “virtual road”.  Learn more about this service by visiting your Publishing Center and reviewing the available marketing options.

Are you an author looking for help to market your self-published book?

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Advice, Authors on Tour, Virtual Book Tour

Top 5 Benefits of a Virtual Book Tour

Say thank you to modern technology! Today, authors no longer must schlep their books cross-country on promotional book tours. Instead, they can take part in virtual book tours without having to travel even one foot.

Here’s how our Virtual Book Tours work at Outskirts Press:

Outskirts Press will announce your upcoming Virtual Book Tour to the blogosphere and solicit interest from bloggers. We will then forward you every inquiry we receive in response to the announcement about your tour. We will also send you a Virtual Book Tour Packet, which includes all of the materials you need to follow up with the bloggers quickly and easily in order to schedule your “appearance” on their blog, website, or social network. In most cases your appearance may include a book review and/or an author interview.

While on virtual tour, you’ll be spotlighted on our blog, which is cross-promoted publicly to our many followers on Facebook, Google +, and Twitter. Plus, your virtual book tour will be blasted to Outskirts Press’ entire social network, including our popular YouTube channel, where your very own Book Tour Video will be uploaded for viewing.

self publishing virtual book tourTop 5 Benefits of a Virtual Book Tour:

  1. It’s faster, less expensive, and more convenient to “tour” from in front of your computer than from town to town in your car.  (That’s 3 benefits right there, and there are still 4 more to go!)
  2. It’s an opportunity to engage with readers.  Your appearance on blogs may generate reader comments, which you are encouraged to respond to.
  3. More book sales and book reviews. The whole point of going on a virtual book tour is to generate book sales, but you may discover an added benefit- the resulting book reviews, which will, in turn, become MORE book sales, and so on and so forth.
  4. Virtual Book Tours last “forever.”  On a “real” book tour, it’s over the minute you get home.  But a virtual book tour is archived and searchable online forever, available for search engines (and your readers) to discover days, months, or even years later.  And due to the power of POD and distribution-on-demand, your book will still be available for sale when those orders come in.
  5. Word of mouth.  While the initial “tour” may be a whirlwind, you may discover an additional benefit due to word-of-mouth.  Bloggers know each other, which can turn into more “appearances” down the road; and readers know each other (just ask members of GoodReads), which may turn into additional sales and reviews down the road, even if those secondary readers didn’t see you “on tour.”

Speaking of road, it used to be a long, hard road to put together a Virtual Book Tour on your own.  But Outskirts Press makes it a snap. And this week we are offering an additional 10% savings! Simply enter promo code 10PctVBT during check-out before this discount expires on August 26th.  Don’t miss out on this affordable, exciting marketing opportunity.

Authors on Tour, Uncategorized, Virtual Book Tour

The Stolen Dragon of Quanx by Becca Mann Virtual Book Tour

For many self-publishing authors, it can be a challenge to come up with creative ways to market a self-published book. While book tours are a great way to connect with readers, they may not be cost-effective, especially if you want to reach a nationwide audience. However, technology makes it possible for authors to reach a larger audience, without all of the costly travel.

Take note from self-publishing Outskirts Press author, Becca Mann, who is taking her latest book, The Stolen Dragon of Quanx, on tour – a virtual book tour, that is. She will be featured on several blogs over the weeks and months ahead so keep your eyes peeled to learn more about her and her book.

Luckily for us, Becca was kind enough to answer a few questions as the tour was getting started so that we can give you a sneak peek into the mind of the creator of The Stolen Dragon of Quanx.

The Stolen Dragon of Quanx book cover

OP: Tell us a little bit about The Stolen Dragon of Quanx. What is it about?

BM: Four uncooperative companions are forced to undertake a dangerous mission to save their world.  In undertaking their quest to steal a dragon egg, they hide their identities, which is difficult because everyone is defined by the color of their eyes.  Some even need to hide the fact that they are female.  They must execute their plan knowing a murderer is amongst them.  The story takes unimaginable twists and turns as friendships are made, battles are fought, dragons are met, and secrets are discovered.  This is a page turner and you won’t be able to put it down.

OP: Why did you decide to write this story?

BM: I’ve been an avid reader my whole life and wanted to experiment with writing, mostly to see where the story would take me.  I have such a vivid imagination and I thought it would be fun to see all my crazy ideas come to life.  As soon as I started writing, I immediately fell in love with my story and my characters.

OP: What types of readers would be interested in this story?

BM: My book is an action/adventure fantasy.  It’s fast paced and meant for young readers, though this is a book that everyone can enjoy.  Along with the action, it also has mystery and redemption.  Honestly, anyone who likes to read can find something they enjoy in The Stolen Dragon of Quanx.

OP: What is special about your book?  What differentiates it from other books in the same category?

BM: The Stolen Dragon of Quanx is special because of all the thought and emotion that was poured into it.  The plot is elaborate, creative, and original.  The characters are developed and able to relate to as they grow throughout the story.  It also features betrayal, murder, fierce loyalty, bravery, mystery, and suspense.

There are also all kinds of secrets in my book—some the reader discovers and some you will learn in the future books.  I’m a big re-reader when it comes to amazing books.  I especially like when I reread a book and learn that something that happened in the beginning is so important in the end.  Or even just little clues which upon first glance seem like nothing, but end up being a huge factor in what happens in the future.  My book has plenty of those aspects!  So for those readers who like to obsess and reread—this book is for you!  There are also simple details that make it special, like how each tribe has its own identity…all the way from names and traditions to insults.  The dragons in my book also have their own language—good luck trying to decode it!

OP: Have you published any other books? Do you plan to publish more?

BM: The Stolen Dragon of Quanx is my first published book.  It is the first book of The Eyes Trilogy.  The second installment is in progress.  People keep contacting me and asking where they can get the second one, so I’m feeling the pressure!

OP: Thanks for your time, Becca! We look forward to learning more about you as you visit other bloggers!

The Stolen Dragon of Quanx Author Becca MannABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Becca Mann is a 16-year-old fantasy writer who likes chocolate milk, Broadway musicals, and reciting digits of pi. Becca has traveled and written in six of the seven continents. She now lives in Baltimore and is a member of the USA Swimming National Team.

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For more information or to contact the author, visit www.outskirtspress.com/thestolendragonofquanx

This author purchased the Virtual Book Tour marketing option, which allows self-publishing authors to connect with bloggers and harness the power of the blogosphere by taking their book on the “virtual road”.  Learn more about this service by visiting your Publishing Center and reviewing the available marketing options.

Are you an author looking for help to market your self-published book?

Start Publishing

Authors on Tour, Uncategorized, Virtual Book Tour

Creation and Creation’s God by Dean Fredrikson Virtual Book Tour

For many self-publishing authors, it can be a challenge to come up with creative ways to market a self-published book. While book tours are a great way to connect with readers, they may not be cost-effective, especially if you want to reach a nationwide audience. However, technology makes it possible for authors to reach a larger audience, without all of the costly travel.

Take note from self-publishing Outskirts Press author, Dean Fredrikson, who is taking his latest book, Creation and Creation’s God, on tour – a virtual book tour, that is. He will be featured on several blogs over the weeks and months ahead so keep your eyes peeled to learn more about him and his book.

Luckily for us, Dean was kind enough to answer a few questions as the tour was getting started so that we can give you a sneak peek into the mind of the creator of Creation and Creation’s God.

Creation and Creation's God book cover

OP: Tell us a little bit about Creation and Creation’s God. What is it about?

DF: Written for concerned, literate, more or less Christianized readers, the book explores the apparently obvious idea that a creator is different from what he creates. Third and fourth century Christian leaders labored to show that Christianity was in this way different from Greek pantheism. The natural world, as we experience it, is not, as Shirley Maclaine once thought, an expression or embodiment of God. Adam, though made “in the image of God,” was still an element in this changing, temporal, physical world. All attempts to know the truth through our experience of material existence must fall short of knowledge of the ultimate reality that both science and theology seek to know.

I address two problems: one is the habit of modern readers to accept the Greek naturalistic bias as the rule by which the truth of Christianity is to be judged. The result has been the desperate attempts of Christians to defend the Genesis record by proving evolution wrong. The contingent truth of modern technology, leading to many good (and bad) things, is entirely consistent with the distinction of creator from creation, but as such it could never prove the truth of Genesis. I want my readers to see Genesis and the Bible as a world view statement, not as a series of pseudo-scientific, Red-herring side tracks.

More important, the Genesis account tells us of a purposeful creator who intends real flesh-and-blood persons to learn to spell out his vision of a truly good, loving people in the context of bodily life in this material world. The creator was free to create as he wished. He created morally free persons because he would not get what he wanted if he coercively determined our obedience. The idea of a supreme creator who seeks the highest good of his creatures both frees us to be real persons and also confronts us with his reality.

OP: Why did you decide to write this story?

DF: Nearly 70 years of active teaching, both in the United States and in Portugal, have convinced me that Soren Kierkegaard was right (in the main!): Christianity need s to be reintroduced into Christendom. This is particularly evident as Islam highlights by contrast the historic nature of Western Christianity. Is “God” like Allah, or is he the supreme, personal, creator God depicted in the Bible? Our understanding of what (who) is really ultimate is not a theologian’s toy but the key to becoming real people, different from mere competing animals. And, beyond understanding there is whole new world of becoming an authentic Christian in the details of

OP: What types of readers would be interested in this story?

DF: I will skid the question just a bit. The book is directed especially to college students and achieved professionals who have not suffered “the closing of the American mind” regarding the question of human origins. It is also directed to Christians who fear science because it is commonly represented as philosophical naturalism and therefore anti-Christian. Within the self-imposed limits of modern empirical science, it is not! I very much hope such people will read the book.

OP: What is special about your book?  What differentiates it from other books in the same category?

DF: Soren Kiekegaard’s (and my) critique of “scientific reason” puts the book at once in a slightly populated category. Relating obvious phases of the Genesis story of creation to the idea of a biblical God who continues to work creatively in the lives of modern persons is both elemental and almost unique in the modern world. As I note the categories of books offered on Amazon, Christianity Today and the various interactive media, I do not find one in which this book fits. Philosophy (metaphysics) is not generally written for popular consumption; and yet every explanation we offer about anything is philosophical. Books on theology for non-professionals are generally church related; and “how-to-be a good-and-happy-Christian” books, of which there are plenty, are superficial.

This book is an introduction  philosophy-theology for every intelligent, literate person who has any interest in Western civilization and particularly in Christianity. Alvin Plantinga’s book, Where the Conflict Really Lies, highlights the distinction of philosophical naturalism from what might be called legitimate science. Abraham Heschel, The Prophets, carries the biblical Story about the “people of God” as far as a Jew can be expected to do, but falls short of a conclusion.

OP: Have you published any other books? Do you plan to publish more?

DF: While I have done a lot of writing for academic purposes, this is my first address to the American public. I am now working on a book on the idea of church that I hope to publish if I live long enough and have the financial resources to do so.

OP: Thanks for your time, Dean! We look forward to learning more about you as you visit other bloggers!

Creation and Creation's God Author Dean FredriksonABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dean W. Fredrikson holds a BS and MA from the University of Minnesota, with additional studies at BIOLA University and the University of Oklahoma. He served for 24 years in Portugal as a builder and instructor, taught at the Oak Hills Christian college for 22 years, and retired in 1998.

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For more information or to contact the author, visit www.outskirtspress.com/creationandcreationsgod

This author purchased the Virtual Book Tour marketing option, which allows self-publishing authors to connect with bloggers and harness the power of the blogosphere by taking their book on the “virtual road”.  Learn more about this service by visiting your Publishing Center and reviewing the available marketing options.

Are you an author looking for help to market your self-published book?

Start Publishing

Authors on Tour, Uncategorized, Virtual Book Tour

Apache Mex by Chestcat Thomas Virtual Book Tour

For many self-publishing authors, it can be a challenge to come up with creative ways to market a self-published book. While book tours are a great way to connect with readers, they may not be cost-effective, especially if you want to reach a nationwide audience. However, technology makes it possible for authors to reach a larger audience, without all of the costly travel.

Take note from self-publishing Outskirts Press author, Chestcat Thomas, who is taking his latest book, Apache Mex, on tour – a virtual book tour, that is. He will be featured on several blogs over the weeks and months ahead so keep your eyes peeled to learn more about him and his book.

Luckily for us, Chestcat was kind enough to answer a few questions as the tour was getting started so that we can give you a sneak peek into the mind of the creator of Apache Mex.

Apache Mex book cover

OP: Tell us a little bit about Apache Mex. What is it about?

CT: A half-breed Indian and Mexican whose mother was raped and later killed; the half-breed swore to avenge her death…

OP: Why did you decide to write this story?

CT: Because of my love for western story telling.

OP: What types of readers would be interested in this story?

CT: Those that love western story telling.

OP: What is special about your book?  What differentiates it from other books in the same category?

CT: My book illustrates the ultimate love that one has for their mother where any prudent minded person would lawfully do anything within their power for their mother; in western story telling the gun is the decisive factor in justice being administered for most unjust situations.

OP: Have you published any other books? Do you plan to publish more?

CT: No I have not published any other books, but I plan to do so in the very near future.

OP: Thanks for your time, Chestcat! We look forward to learning more about you as you visit other bloggers!

Apache Mex Author Chestcat ThomasABOUT THE AUTHOR:

I’m a Native of Louisiana, who loves hunting, fishing, horseback riding, swimming in the Amite River, and Darlington Creek. My favorite childhood game was playing cowboys and indians, my favorite television shows were westerns, my favorite novels were westerns mostly written by Louis L’Amour. I love to write although it may be fiction, western fiction is a part of me. I grew up in a medium size family having one brother, and one sister, our father died when I was about one year old, therefore, I was only raised by my mother.

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For more information or to contact the author, visit www.outskirtspress.com/apachemex

This author purchased the Virtual Book Tour marketing option, which allows self-publishing authors to connect with bloggers and harness the power of the blogosphere by taking their book on the “virtual road”.  Learn more about this service by visiting your Publishing Center and reviewing the available marketing options.

Are you an author looking for help to market your self-published book?

Start Publishing

Authors on Tour, Uncategorized, Virtual Book Tour

Confession or Miracles Happen by Marina Polukhina Virtual Book Tour

For many self-publishing authors, it can be a challenge to come up with creative ways to market a self-published book. While book tours are a great way to connect with readers, they may not be cost-effective, especially if you want to reach a nationwide audience. However, technology makes it possible for authors to reach a larger audience, without all of the costly travel.

Take note from self-publishing Outskirts Press author, Marina Polukhina, who is taking her latest book, Confession or Miracles Happen, on tour – a virtual book tour, that is. She will be featured on several blogs over the weeks and months ahead so keep your eyes peeled to learn more about her and her book.

Luckily for us, Marina was kind enough to answer a few questions as the tour was getting started so that we can give you a sneak peek into the mind of the creator of Confession or Miracles Happen.

Confession or Miracles Happen book cover

OP: Tell us a little bit about Confession or Miracles Happen. What is it about?

MP: The book is about 25 years in hell. It is about a woman, who had to go through a lot of pain, abuse, depression and even suicide attempt, who was struggling and suffering for years until God gave her another chance. She discovered herself, came back stronger and wiser. She shared her story with the rest of the world  to give hope, to change people’s lives.

OP: Why did you decide to write this story?

MP: I have never planned to write a book. But after what happened to me, after I lost almost everything to suicide, I remembered something I’d learned many years ago, when I was taking psychology classes. I decided to write down everything happened to me before and after suicide attempt. This is how my 5 years healing began. I wrote a few pages, felt better. In a few months wrote more, felt empty and stopped. Came back to my story in 2 years, wrote more and stopped again because felt like I went through the same emotions one more time. It took me a year to recover, so that to keep writing and finally finish my story.

Back then I already knew that I wanted to share  my tragedy with others, I wanted my story to be read (I have never read anything like my own story before), I wanted to help those who needed help.

OP: What types of readers would be interested in this story?

MP: Ordinary people; those who are in tough situations, stressed, depressed; who feels lost, who is thinking about ending their lives.

OP: What is special about your book?  What differentiates it from other books in the same category?

MP: Frankly, I do not know my book’s category. It is not self-help, not just memoir, not family/relationship category. It is all the above or something different. I shared my inner thoughts and feelings, honestly told what was going on with me and what happened to my family before and after suicide attempt. I told my story like I would talk to the close friend whom I haven’t seen for a long time.

OP: Have you published any other books? Do you plan to publish more?

MP: On July 14th I lost my dog. Hamlet, the Papillon was only 9 years old. He died of heart attack. Actually he had heart attack, and after that his heart stopped beating 4 times. The 4th was the last. I wrote and published myself on CreateSpace a book for children Dogwood Final Destination, which I dedicated to my favorite doggy boy son Hamlet.

I will keep writing and hopefully publishing.

OP: Thanks for your time, Marina! We look forward to learning more about you as you visit other bloggers!

Confession or Miracles Happen Author Marina PolukhinaABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Marina Polukhina (maiden name Granova) was born on March 26th 1966 in Leningrad, USSR (Saint Petersburg, Russia). She finished High School with extensive learning of English in 1983. In 1985 she graduated technical college. In 1986 completed “State Courses” of British English. In 1987 Marina got married; and in 1988 her daughter Arina was born. When Arina was 5,5 years old her parents got a divorce. Marina worked in Medical Genetic Center of St.-Petersburg till March 1st 2003. On March 21st Marina together with her 15 years old daughter Arina moved to the USA. Marina got married on May 16th 2003. Lives together with her husband in Maryland.

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For more information or to contact the author, visit www.outskirtspress.com/confession

This author purchased the Virtual Book Tour marketing option, which allows self-publishing authors to connect with bloggers and harness the power of the blogosphere by taking their book on the “virtual road”.  Learn more about this service by visiting your Publishing Center and reviewing the available marketing options.

Are you an author looking for help to market your self-published book?

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ALA Conference, Authors on Tour

The ALA Is A-OK!

Just try to shush the excitement buzzing in San Francisco this week! June 25-30 marks the annual American Library Association (ALA) conference and exhibition, a huge event that attracts librarians Nick Offermanfrom all levels of management, from all types of libraries, from across the country. Far from a stodgy, stiff event, this year’s conference welcomes an impressive list of celebrity guests: journalist and activist Gloria Steinem, comedian/actor/author Nick Offermann (“Parks and Recreation”), Emmy-winning actress and author Sonia Manzano (Maria on “Sesame Street”), and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Robbie Robertson of The Band, among many others.

The ALA Conference & Exhibition It serves as a meeting place for leadership, a place to learn, a place to network and as a forum to exchange ideas on the multitude of issues affecting libraries. And, as you can see, it’s also a forum where impressive star authors impart their wisdom to starstruck audiences. Attendance at the annual ALA is estimated at 25,000 and growing

Click here for details about how you can reserve your spot at the next ALA Conference & Exhibition!

Authors on Tour, Uncategorized, Virtual Book Tour

It’s Not Your Fault! by Miles Tyrone Leader Jr. Virtual Book Tour

For many self-publishing authors, it can ba a challenge to come up with creative ways to market a self-published book. While book tours are a great way to connect with readers, they may not be cost-effective, especially if you want to reach a nationwide audience. However, technology makes it possible for authors to reach a larger audience, without all of the costly travel.

Take note from self-publishing Outskirts Press author, Miles Tyrone Leader Jr., who is taking his latest book, It’s Not Your Fault!, on tour – a virtual book tour, that is. He will be featured on several blogs over the weeks and months ahead so keep your eyes peeled to learn more about him and his book.

Luckily for us, Miles was kind enough to answer a few questions as the tour was getting started so that we can give you a sneak peek into the mind of the creator of It’s Not Your Fault!.

It's Not Your Fault! book cover

OP: Tell us a little bit about It’s Not Your Fault!. What is it about?

MTL: The book is basically about money, economics, finance and investing. It explains the systems and programming that have placed most people in economic slavery and indebtedness, and then teaches investing strategies to become financially free and independent.

OP: Why did you decide to write this story?

MTL: Well, the book started off as small reports I had written to keep track of subject I had researched like the Monetary System, Economic forces and Threats to Economic Freedom. Eventually, I had enough material to compile into a book. I was actually going to sell the PDF directly to people online, but decided to make it look good, make a good first impression and publish it professionally. Plus, I thought it would be pretty cool having my name and book title in places Amazon and the Apple Store.

OP: What types of readers would be interested in this story?

MTL: I believe anyone who wants to take control of their financial situation, end their financial struggles and wants to learn real investment strategies that they can easily implement will be the core readers. Also anyone who just wants to improve their financial situation, even if they aren’t struggling financially, would be interested as well.

OP: What is special about your book?  What differentiates it from other books in the same category?

MTL: Most books tell a bunch of stories about the author’s life or scenarios that lose people in the process. And once you read the book, usually that is it. You are left to fend for yourself to implement the information. That is where my book crushes other financial education books. There are no long–‐ winded stories; just information, facts and education. And for those who are interested, we have a learning support system called the Guidance Program on our website GuidanceProgram.net that provided educational tools and other relevant financial and economic information. I wish this type of financial education were around when I first became interested in investing and business.

OP: Have you published any other books? Do you plan to publish more?

MTL: I have not published any other books, but I do have other material in the works that I plan to publish. This material will be different from It’s Not Your Fault! Because it will pertain to self-improvement, health and fitness and human sexuality. So there are at least three books coming in the future.

OP: Thanks for your time, Miles! We look forward to learning more about you as you visit other bloggers!

It's Not Your Fault! Author Miles Tyrone Leader Jr.ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Whether it was him working over 10 years in the retail and customer service professions, working and hustling tirelessly to achieve his Bachelor of Business Administration, serving his country honorably for eight years as a soldier in the United States Army Reserve or serving the City of New York for over four years as a Probation Officer and subsequently a Middle School Parent Coordinator, Miles Tyrone Leader Jr. understands the struggles of the middle class American. However, despite his own personal struggles in life, he eventually became a financially self-educated owner/executive of his own investment- holding company. Through will, drive and determination, he broke through the financial education barrier. Over 10 years of economic and investment research has given him insight into the shortcomings of the middle class and the untold advantages of having your money work for you. Miles Tyrone Leader Jr. wants to share his knowledge and educate the uninformed. He wants to empower people with an understanding of economics and investing, and enhance the lives of those who choose to apply their new-found knowledge.

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For more information or to contact the author, visit www.outskirtspress.com/guidanceprogram

This author purchased the Virtual Book Tour marketing option, which allows self-publishing authors to connect with bloggers and harness the power of the blogosphere by taking their book on the “virtual road”.  Learn more about this service by visiting your Publishing Center and reviewing the available marketing options.

Are you an author looking for help to market your self-published book?

Start Publishing

Authors on Tour, Uncategorized, Virtual Book Tour

High Seas Darkness by Burr B. Anderson Virtual Book Tour

For many self-publishing authors, it can be a challenge to come up with creative ways to market a self-published book. While book tours are a great way to connect with readers, they may not be cost-effective, especially if you want to reach a nationwide audience. However, technology makes it possible for authors to reach a larger audience, without all of the costly travel.

Take note from self-publishing Outskirts Press author, Burr B. Anderson, who is taking his latest book, High Seas Darkness, on tour – a virtual book tour, that is. He will be featured on several blogs over the weeks and months ahead so keep your eyes peeled to learn more about him and his book.

Luckily for us, Burr was kind enough to answer a few questions as the tour was getting started so that we can give you a sneak peek into the mind of the creator of High Seas Darkness.

High Seas Darkness book cover

OP: Tell us a little bit about High Seas Darkness. What is it about?

BBA: When a passenger on a luxury cruise ship falls victim to a vicious sexual assault, private
maritime investigator Brick Morgan arrives to solve the crime. His investigation brings him faceto-
face with a sultry old flame—and a terrorist plot that threatens thousands of passengers on an
entire fleet of cruise ships. His attempts to the stop religious fundamentalists run up against the
barriers of FBI and Homeland Security while a political battle brews between American loyalists
and an American president whose weak stance on terror has opened the door for this series of
deadly chemical attacks by radical religious insurgents.

OP: Why did you decide to write this story?

BBA: The cruise industry offers a taste for luxury to passengers around the world; however,
beneath the waterline there exists a secret world of the crew members who come from across the
globe to form floating cities that few passengers ever see, let alone think about. I wanted to
reveal the difficult lives of these often-exploited crew members by sharing the darker side of
what really goes on under the glitzy shows and endless buffets.

Also, I wanted to bring a new kind of hero to the thriller genre. Brick Morgan, the lead of
High Seas Darkness, bucks the trend of white action heroes. He’s a black cop from the Pacific
Northwest who is exceptionally driven. He earns a law degree and works with the Justice
Department before becoming the premier private investigator for the maritime industry because
he saw a need to help victims on a bigger scale.

Most significantly, I wrote High Seas Darkness because of my concerns with how the
United States handles the international tensions. America has many enemies and the threat of
terrorism is not only ongoing, it is growing. I hope this book calls attention to the potential
dangers that many of our current political leaders haughtily choose to ignore.

OP: What types of readers would be interested in this story?

BBA: Fans of political thrillers and criminal forensics will find Brick Morgan a compelling
character in the lineage of heroes from writes like Tom Clancy, Vince Flynn, or Daniel Silva.

OP: What is special about your book?  What differentiates it from other books in the same category?

BBA: To the best of my knowledge, High Seas Darkness is the first piece of suspense fiction to
dive beneath the water line to reveal the seedy truths and ugly tensions at work behind the scenes
of luxury cruise ships. The story will potentially unsettle readers as they learn about the rights
and safety they actually leave at the gangway as they step onboard a cruise ship.

OP: Have you published any other books? Do you plan to publish more?

BBA: In 2012, I published my first book, The Drummer—a story about the insurance industry
colliding with music industry. It focuses on the allure of sex, drugs, and rock n’ roll in Southern
California. Because of the tremendously positive feedback and interest I’ve received about Brick
Morgan, I’ve promised that he will return as the protagonist in the second book of a series of
Brick Morgan novels. My next book, tentatively titled Darkness Over the Canal, will take Brick
from the Pacific Northwest to South America and back as he confronts an international criminal
plot to take control of the maritime shipping industry and cripple America’s economy.

OP: Thanks for your time, Burr! We look forward to learning more about you as you visit other bloggers!

High Seas Darkness Author Burr B. AndersonABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Burr B. Anderson spent four decades working in business before turning his passion for the maritime industries into thrillers. A former US Navy submariner drawn to forensics and criminology, Anderson combines a keen political insight with his extensive experience as a world traveler in High Seas Darkness, a powerful debut novel.

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For more information or to contact the author, visit www.outskirtspress.com/highseasdarkness

This author purchased the Virtual Book Tour marketing option, which allows self-publishing authors to connect with bloggers and harness the power of the blogosphere by taking their book on the “virtual road”.  Learn more about this service by visiting your Publishing Center and reviewing the available marketing options.

Are you an author looking for help to market your self-published book?

Start Publishing