Monday, March 24, 2008
... and the winner is!
Congratulations to Shelly! She's won my second copy of St. Barts Breakdown, the fourth book in the Mick Sever, music journalist, series.
I wish I had copies of this neat book for all of you who entered, but here's a link so you can pick up your own. Grab the backlist while you're there!
If you missed my review of the book and/or the interview with author Don Bruns, be sure to head over to Front Street Reviews and read both there. And while you're there, check out my review for Susie Fishbein's Passover by Design. You'll understand why that's one book I'm not giving away!
I wish I had copies of this neat book for all of you who entered, but here's a link so you can pick up your own. Grab the backlist while you're there!
If you missed my review of the book and/or the interview with author Don Bruns, be sure to head over to Front Street Reviews and read both there. And while you're there, check out my review for Susie Fishbein's Passover by Design. You'll understand why that's one book I'm not giving away!
Labels: book reviews, books, contest winners, Don Bruns, prizes, St. Barts Breakdown
Friday, March 07, 2008
Giving You ... St. Barts Breakdown
***Sticky Post! Scroll down for this week's good stuff!***
Barb, the lovely editor at Front Street Reviews, was surprised at how harsh I was about Don Bruns' St. Barts Breakdown, given how much I liked it.
I don't think I was harsh. I was trying to be balanced and fair.
What do you think? And, maybe more importantly, do you want a chance to see for yourself? I've got TWO copies of St. Barts Breakdown here -- but one is about to find a place on my shelf.
That means I've got a spare. And it can be yours, so you can read it and tell me if you think I was being too harsh on Michelle and Jordan (and maybe even leading man Mick Sever, even though I basically liked him).
You know the rules...
1. Head on over to Front Street Reviews and check out what I had to say about the rest of St. Barts Breakdown. (This part isn't mandatory, but it'd sure be nice. I spent a good week working on that review! That's six days longer than the average outtake!)
2. Leave me a comment here on this very post, telling me you want to read it.
3. BE SURE TO LEAVE CONTACT INFORMATION. A link to your blog, your e-mail, whatever. But I've got to have a way to tell you that you've won. Please, don't leave your phone number. I hate the phone and won't call.
4. On Saturday, March 8, I'll have The Opening Act (that'd be my kids, for you who don't hang around here -- and why not?) pick a number based on the number of entries.
5. This contest is open to everyone on Planet Earth. Yup, I'll ship around the world. If you've won in the past, so what? Enter again. You might win again, but I make no promises.
6. I will register this book at BookCrossing.com. I love watching my books travel the world. I love seeing what others think of them. That doesn't mean you're obligated to do a darn thing with BookCrossing, although if you're going to remove the lovely book plate I'll be putting inside, don't tell me. That denies me the chance to know what happens to a book that passed through my hands -- and anyone who comes after you to experience the fun of BookCrossing.
7. You've got until Friday night, March 7 to enter.
Good luck! And really, get your hands on this book. Danny Murtz is a trainwreck you don't want to miss out on.
As always, thanks to my promo crew for helping spread the word: Breeni, Laura Williams, Prizey, and a Book Blogger's Diary. Am I missing anyone? Please let me know!
Barb, the lovely editor at Front Street Reviews, was surprised at how harsh I was about Don Bruns' St. Barts Breakdown, given how much I liked it.
I don't think I was harsh. I was trying to be balanced and fair.
What do you think? And, maybe more importantly, do you want a chance to see for yourself? I've got TWO copies of St. Barts Breakdown here -- but one is about to find a place on my shelf.
That means I've got a spare. And it can be yours, so you can read it and tell me if you think I was being too harsh on Michelle and Jordan (and maybe even leading man Mick Sever, even though I basically liked him).
You know the rules...
1. Head on over to Front Street Reviews and check out what I had to say about the rest of St. Barts Breakdown. (This part isn't mandatory, but it'd sure be nice. I spent a good week working on that review! That's six days longer than the average outtake!)
2. Leave me a comment here on this very post, telling me you want to read it.
3. BE SURE TO LEAVE CONTACT INFORMATION. A link to your blog, your e-mail, whatever. But I've got to have a way to tell you that you've won. Please, don't leave your phone number. I hate the phone and won't call.
4. On Saturday, March 8, I'll have The Opening Act (that'd be my kids, for you who don't hang around here -- and why not?) pick a number based on the number of entries.
5. This contest is open to everyone on Planet Earth. Yup, I'll ship around the world. If you've won in the past, so what? Enter again. You might win again, but I make no promises.
6. I will register this book at BookCrossing.com. I love watching my books travel the world. I love seeing what others think of them. That doesn't mean you're obligated to do a darn thing with BookCrossing, although if you're going to remove the lovely book plate I'll be putting inside, don't tell me. That denies me the chance to know what happens to a book that passed through my hands -- and anyone who comes after you to experience the fun of BookCrossing.
7. You've got until Friday night, March 7 to enter.
Good luck! And really, get your hands on this book. Danny Murtz is a trainwreck you don't want to miss out on.
As always, thanks to my promo crew for helping spread the word: Breeni, Laura Williams, Prizey, and a Book Blogger's Diary. Am I missing anyone? Please let me know!
Labels: book reviews, BookCrossing, books, contest, Don Bruns, Front Street Reviews, prizes, St. Barts Breakdown
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Susan's Book Talk: A New Reading Challenge
I discovered this challenge after November first, so I haven't been in a huge hurry to catch up and get my voice added.
At any rate, it's my favorite sort of challenge: catch up on Mt. TBR (that's To Be Read, and mine is not just a single mountain but an entire range these days).
The From the Stacks reading challenge encourages you to pick five books from the mountain and read them. The time frame is November 1 to January 30 -- and they'll be handing out random, small prizes along the way.
For me, getting a little more caught up is prize enough.
Thus, my five picks:
Auralia's Colors, by Jeffrey Overstreet
I'm reading this now and will review it for Front Street Reviews. Stay tuned. I'm on page 33 and so far, it's a great read.
My New-Found Land, Bunnygirl's book. I've blogged about it before. Here, in fact. Even though my copy's not autographed, I have the feeling that if you'd like me to part with my copy, it's not going to happen. Sorry. (unless an autographed copy happens to show up in my PO Box? Maybe?)
Death du Jour, Kathy Reichs. Yep, I'm WAY behind on kicking this series off.
The Hook, by Donald E. Westlake. I loved his book The Ax. Will I feel the same about The Hook? And will it inspire any Deadly Metal Hatchet adventures?
Death of a Saint Maker, by Allana Martin. This book's been here so long, I don't remember where it came from or why. Yes, I'm that far behind.
And for a bonus read, I've had The Historian, by Elizabeth Kostova here every bit as long, too. I'll admit it: I'm daunted by its size. I need to get over that, as it's one of a number of thick books awaiting me.
It'd be nice, too, if I could finally finish July 7th, Jill McCorkle's novel that's been on my nightstand for awhile now. I really like reading it, but it falls victim to exhaustion more often that not, sad to say.
One final plug: have you seen my reviews up at Front Street Reviews? Reviews for Jennifer Estep's Hot Mama are now up, as is Rebecca Drake's The Next Killing. And if you haven't seen my thoughts on Colleen Gleason's first two Gardella Vampire Chronicles, it's still there, too. Let me know what you think of this bounty of reviews!
At any rate, it's my favorite sort of challenge: catch up on Mt. TBR (that's To Be Read, and mine is not just a single mountain but an entire range these days).
The From the Stacks reading challenge encourages you to pick five books from the mountain and read them. The time frame is November 1 to January 30 -- and they'll be handing out random, small prizes along the way.
For me, getting a little more caught up is prize enough.
Thus, my five picks:
Auralia's Colors, by Jeffrey Overstreet
I'm reading this now and will review it for Front Street Reviews. Stay tuned. I'm on page 33 and so far, it's a great read.
My New-Found Land, Bunnygirl's book. I've blogged about it before. Here, in fact. Even though my copy's not autographed, I have the feeling that if you'd like me to part with my copy, it's not going to happen. Sorry. (unless an autographed copy happens to show up in my PO Box? Maybe?)
Death du Jour, Kathy Reichs. Yep, I'm WAY behind on kicking this series off.
The Hook, by Donald E. Westlake. I loved his book The Ax. Will I feel the same about The Hook? And will it inspire any Deadly Metal Hatchet adventures?
Death of a Saint Maker, by Allana Martin. This book's been here so long, I don't remember where it came from or why. Yes, I'm that far behind.
And for a bonus read, I've had The Historian, by Elizabeth Kostova here every bit as long, too. I'll admit it: I'm daunted by its size. I need to get over that, as it's one of a number of thick books awaiting me.
It'd be nice, too, if I could finally finish July 7th, Jill McCorkle's novel that's been on my nightstand for awhile now. I really like reading it, but it falls victim to exhaustion more often that not, sad to say.
One final plug: have you seen my reviews up at Front Street Reviews? Reviews for Jennifer Estep's Hot Mama are now up, as is Rebecca Drake's The Next Killing. And if you haven't seen my thoughts on Colleen Gleason's first two Gardella Vampire Chronicles, it's still there, too. Let me know what you think of this bounty of reviews!
Labels: book reviews, books, challenge, Front Street Reviews
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Summer's Hidden Treasures: Enter Here
No, you're not a maroon or in a time warp. This is a sticky post. Scroll on down for the fun new stuff.
Hello friends old, new, and potential, and welcome to the Summer's Hidden Treasures Reading contest. If you are here to enter the contest, please leave your name and the permalink of your book review in the Mr. Linky provided below.
If you'd like to review the rules, click here.
If you'd like more information, click here.
We'll be manually checking all of these reviews. If they:
1. Were posted before 15 July or after 15 August
2. Are a review of a best-seller
3. Are a review of a book that the author paid to have published
your review will remain posted, but you will be ineligible to win prizes from our great sponsors. (see here for list of sponsors. Please thank them. And the authors who are pitching in and helping out.)
Yes, it is this easy!
Yes, you may enter more than once!
Hello friends old, new, and potential, and welcome to the Summer's Hidden Treasures Reading contest. If you are here to enter the contest, please leave your name and the permalink of your book review in the Mr. Linky provided below.
If you'd like to review the rules, click here.
If you'd like more information, click here.
We'll be manually checking all of these reviews. If they:
1. Were posted before 15 July or after 15 August
2. Are a review of a best-seller
3. Are a review of a book that the author paid to have published
your review will remain posted, but you will be ineligible to win prizes from our great sponsors. (see here for list of sponsors. Please thank them. And the authors who are pitching in and helping out.)
Yes, it is this easy!
Yes, you may enter more than once!
Labels: book reviews, contest, prizes, Summer's Hidden Treasures
Friday, August 10, 2007
Susan's Book Talk: Multiples and other things
First off: this week's Booking Through Thursday:
Do you have multiple copies of any of your books?
If so, why? Absent-mindedness? You love them that much? First Editions for the shelf, but paperbacks to read?
If not, why not? Not enough space? Not enough money? Too sensible to do something so foolish?
I have a lot of multiples that have come to me through BookCrossing -- I'll forget to take something off my wishlist (with 1200+ books on there, can you blame me?) or someone will think I'll like a book, so they send it to me, not knowing I've got a copy here that I haven't registered at BookCrossing yet.
And I buy multiples, too -- to share via BookCrossing or the book trading sites ('cause whenever I offer you guys my books, you don't take me up on it. What's up with THAT?). Those multiples are books I loved and want to help spread the word about. You know, sort of like my own way of helping people find a Hidden Treasures book.
Speaking of Hidden Treasures, there's only five days left in the contest. Get your last reviews up! If you're web wandering and you find a review posted, why not encourage the writer to submit it to the contest?? They've already done the hard work; invite them to come get rewards and some extra linkie love for it.
I hear that Jennifer Estep, one of our Hidden Treasures authors, has a few ARCs for the second in her Big Time series, Hot Mama. I'll let you know when the review's up at Front Street Reviews.
And lastly (I think), I'd love to thank Robin L. Rotham for pulling my very own name out of a hat and declaring me the winner of a copy of her new short, Seniorella. This is going to be my very first foray into e-books, so if you prefer Microsoft Reader to PDF format, or the other way, you'd better weigh in on that subject now...
Happy reading, everyone! Let's get some last reviews in for the Summer's Hidden Treasures contest, okay?
Do you have multiple copies of any of your books?
If so, why? Absent-mindedness? You love them that much? First Editions for the shelf, but paperbacks to read?
If not, why not? Not enough space? Not enough money? Too sensible to do something so foolish?
I have a lot of multiples that have come to me through BookCrossing -- I'll forget to take something off my wishlist (with 1200+ books on there, can you blame me?) or someone will think I'll like a book, so they send it to me, not knowing I've got a copy here that I haven't registered at BookCrossing yet.
And I buy multiples, too -- to share via BookCrossing or the book trading sites ('cause whenever I offer you guys my books, you don't take me up on it. What's up with THAT?). Those multiples are books I loved and want to help spread the word about. You know, sort of like my own way of helping people find a Hidden Treasures book.
Speaking of Hidden Treasures, there's only five days left in the contest. Get your last reviews up! If you're web wandering and you find a review posted, why not encourage the writer to submit it to the contest?? They've already done the hard work; invite them to come get rewards and some extra linkie love for it.
I hear that Jennifer Estep, one of our Hidden Treasures authors, has a few ARCs for the second in her Big Time series, Hot Mama. I'll let you know when the review's up at Front Street Reviews.
And lastly (I think), I'd love to thank Robin L. Rotham for pulling my very own name out of a hat and declaring me the winner of a copy of her new short, Seniorella. This is going to be my very first foray into e-books, so if you prefer Microsoft Reader to PDF format, or the other way, you'd better weigh in on that subject now...
Happy reading, everyone! Let's get some last reviews in for the Summer's Hidden Treasures contest, okay?
Labels: book reviews, BookCrossing, Booking Through Thursday, books, Front Street Reviews, Jennifer Estep, prizes, Summer's Hidden Treasures, Susan's Book Talk
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Summer's Hidden Treasures Entry Update
Yep, I've crawled out of the woods near the PA-WVA border. I braved severe thunderstorms all by myself in a Boy Scout-issued tent that's not much more than two metal cots, some moldy mattresses, a wooden-planked floor, and an oil cloth over it all.
And I'll tell you die-hards about it later, so be sure to stop back.
If you haven't read all three entries about the Deadly Metal Hatchet, be sure to do so and leave comments. You guys didn't leave much for the Tour Manager to do, you know!
Right now, I want to highlight the entries to the Summer's Hidden Treasure contest. Be sure to check out these books and, where you can, the review authors -- once you've read and reviewed your own Hidden Treasure, of course!
Lauren reviewed Whiskey Sour by JA Konrath.
Cathepsut reviewed Passion by Jude Watson.
Wendy (Wss4) reviewed Resurrection Dreams by Richard Laymon.
Henry Martin (himself a HT featured author!) reviewed The Smile at the Foot of the Ladder, by Henry Miller.
Missy reviewed The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever by Julia Quinn.
Pesh (via Joely Sue Burkhart) reviewed Survive my Fire, by Joely Sue Burkhart.
Wendy/Wss4 reviewed Mammoth by John Varley.
Dew reviewed Wifework by Susan Maushart
.
ChronicBooker reviewed The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne.
ChronicBooker reviewed The Knitting Circle by Ann Hood.
Wendy/Wss4 reviewed Shade's Children by Garth Nix.
Jarlynn reviewed The Dragon's Loss: I'd Tell You I Love You, but Then I'd Have to Kill You by Ally Carter.
Megan -- Your Other Left reviewed How to be Lost by Amanda Eyre Ward.
Confessions of a Literary Persuasion reviewed Flight 4, an anthology.
John Mutford reviewed Fall by Fury by Earle Birney.
John Mutford reviewed The Tightrope Dancer by Irving Layton.
Scooper reviewed Wraith by Phaedra Weldon.
Just dropping by to say hi:
Milan-zzz, Erin, Robin Mills.
We have the teeniest bit over two weeks left to go in the contest. Be sure to help spread the word about the contest. My thanks to everyone who's done so, and apologies for any typos I didn't catch; I'm BEAT.
And I'll tell you die-hards about it later, so be sure to stop back.
If you haven't read all three entries about the Deadly Metal Hatchet, be sure to do so and leave comments. You guys didn't leave much for the Tour Manager to do, you know!
Right now, I want to highlight the entries to the Summer's Hidden Treasure contest. Be sure to check out these books and, where you can, the review authors -- once you've read and reviewed your own Hidden Treasure, of course!
Lauren reviewed Whiskey Sour by JA Konrath.
Cathepsut reviewed Passion by Jude Watson.
Wendy (Wss4) reviewed Resurrection Dreams by Richard Laymon.
Henry Martin (himself a HT featured author!) reviewed The Smile at the Foot of the Ladder, by Henry Miller.
Missy reviewed The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever by Julia Quinn.
Pesh (via Joely Sue Burkhart) reviewed Survive my Fire, by Joely Sue Burkhart.
Wendy/Wss4 reviewed Mammoth by John Varley.
Dew reviewed Wifework by Susan Maushart
.
ChronicBooker reviewed The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne.
ChronicBooker reviewed The Knitting Circle by Ann Hood.
Wendy/Wss4 reviewed Shade's Children by Garth Nix.
Jarlynn reviewed The Dragon's Loss: I'd Tell You I Love You, but Then I'd Have to Kill You by Ally Carter.
Megan -- Your Other Left reviewed How to be Lost by Amanda Eyre Ward.
Confessions of a Literary Persuasion reviewed Flight 4, an anthology.
John Mutford reviewed Fall by Fury by Earle Birney.
John Mutford reviewed The Tightrope Dancer by Irving Layton.
Scooper reviewed Wraith by Phaedra Weldon.
Just dropping by to say hi:
Milan-zzz, Erin, Robin Mills.
We have the teeniest bit over two weeks left to go in the contest. Be sure to help spread the word about the contest. My thanks to everyone who's done so, and apologies for any typos I didn't catch; I'm BEAT.
Labels: book reviews, books, contest, entries, Summer's Hidden Treasures
Friday, July 20, 2007
Summer's Hidden Treasures: Week One Update!
Bunches of contest stuff to throw at you before we all go the best-seller route with some dude named Harry...
1. My thoughts are with the Hatchette Group. Their office is scarily close to this week's steam pipe explosion in New York City. While the staff is reportedly okay, I'm sure their lives are a bit upside-down right now, so any good vibes you can send their way will be appreciated. A reminder that Hatchette is a sponsor of Summer's Hidden Treasures, and I've got a box of books here to send you guys as prizes. Be sure to enter -- and to check out some of their great offerings.
2. Today's the release day for West of Mars groupies Christine D'Abo and Joely Sue Burkhart! They have new books out with Ellora's Cave and Drollerie Press, respectively. If you like your romance hot and spicy, be sure to stop by and pick up their books. And if you post a review online somewhere, come on back and enter the permalinks in the Summer's Hidden Treasures contest! Yes, both Ellora's Cave and Drollerie Press are publishers I recognize for contest purposes.
3. Check out the reviews already posted:
Gradiva with The Blue Taxi by N.S. Koenings
Lauren with The Kommandant's Girl by Pam Jenoff
Aryn Kennedy with Fashionably Late by Nadine Dajani
Confessions of a Literary Persuasion with Sigorney's Quest by Gordon Snider
Dana with The Kommandant's Girl by Pam Jenoff
Dana (again!) with Whiskey Sour by JA Konrath
Missy with Stray by Rachel Vincent
Pussreboots with The Chatham School Affair by Thomas H. Cook
Scooper with The Immortals: The Darkening by Robin T. Popp
The Superfast Reader with Magic Casement by Dave Duncan
Wendy/Wss4 with Grave Peril: Dresden Files #2 by Jim Butcher
Wendy/Wss4 (again!) with Lullabye by Patricia Wallace
Jill with Eva by Lucie Page
Wendy/Wss4 (Third time!) with Homebody by Orson Scott Card
Breeni with Protector by Laurel Dewey
and our friends
Mia Romano and
Red Garnier stopping by to leave links 'cause they know they can.
Join the fun, folks!
All of you in the Bay Area, may the ground beneath your feet remain still.
1. My thoughts are with the Hatchette Group. Their office is scarily close to this week's steam pipe explosion in New York City. While the staff is reportedly okay, I'm sure their lives are a bit upside-down right now, so any good vibes you can send their way will be appreciated. A reminder that Hatchette is a sponsor of Summer's Hidden Treasures, and I've got a box of books here to send you guys as prizes. Be sure to enter -- and to check out some of their great offerings.
2. Today's the release day for West of Mars groupies Christine D'Abo and Joely Sue Burkhart! They have new books out with Ellora's Cave and Drollerie Press, respectively. If you like your romance hot and spicy, be sure to stop by and pick up their books. And if you post a review online somewhere, come on back and enter the permalinks in the Summer's Hidden Treasures contest! Yes, both Ellora's Cave and Drollerie Press are publishers I recognize for contest purposes.
3. Check out the reviews already posted:
Gradiva with The Blue Taxi by N.S. Koenings
Lauren with The Kommandant's Girl by Pam Jenoff
Aryn Kennedy with Fashionably Late by Nadine Dajani
Confessions of a Literary Persuasion with Sigorney's Quest by Gordon Snider
Dana with The Kommandant's Girl by Pam Jenoff
Dana (again!) with Whiskey Sour by JA Konrath
Missy with Stray by Rachel Vincent
Pussreboots with The Chatham School Affair by Thomas H. Cook
Scooper with The Immortals: The Darkening by Robin T. Popp
The Superfast Reader with Magic Casement by Dave Duncan
Wendy/Wss4 with Grave Peril: Dresden Files #2 by Jim Butcher
Wendy/Wss4 (again!) with Lullabye by Patricia Wallace
Jill with Eva by Lucie Page
Wendy/Wss4 (Third time!) with Homebody by Orson Scott Card
Breeni with Protector by Laurel Dewey
and our friends
Mia Romano and
Red Garnier stopping by to leave links 'cause they know they can.
Join the fun, folks!
All of you in the Bay Area, may the ground beneath your feet remain still.
Labels: book reviews, books, Summer's Hidden Treasures
Saturday, June 02, 2007
Susan's Book Talk: Reviews and a contest or two
Bunches of little things and one big one...
1. Check out Front Street Reviews for two (not one! Two!) of my latest book reviews -- one for Catch a Wave: The Rise, Fall and Redemption of the Beach Boys' Brian Wilson, by Peter Ames Carlin. (the link's to buy the book. Use the Front Street Reviews link to read what I had to say about it.)
The other review is for a new rave of mine: Karma Girl, by Jennifer Estep. (Oh, just check out both links, then the Front Street one for the review!) This is a writer worth watching; her vision is incredible. She creates a totally believable world that you'll want to live in. I promise.
2. Have you been to Dewey's place lately? She's running this really cool contest and yours truly has offered to throw in for the prizes. Come jump on the fun.
3. And finally, speaking of contests and Jennifer Estep, I'm looking for more authors who've published fiction by royalty-paying publishers. Yes, gang, it's time for our summer reading contest, and I am hoping some of you authors, or friends of authors, will stop by and offer up not only prizes, but up to five books or authors who fit the theme of Hidden Treasures.
I've noticed that this is a hot theme this year; I picked it way back in February, so I may be late to the bandwagon, but that's cause I was busy hitching the horses up to it.
Drop me an e-mail for more details. Authors only right now, though! The rest of you can wait a scant two weeks. (Go hunt down Karma Girl in the meantime, okay?)
1. Check out Front Street Reviews for two (not one! Two!) of my latest book reviews -- one for Catch a Wave: The Rise, Fall and Redemption of the Beach Boys' Brian Wilson, by Peter Ames Carlin. (the link's to buy the book. Use the Front Street Reviews link to read what I had to say about it.)
The other review is for a new rave of mine: Karma Girl, by Jennifer Estep. (Oh, just check out both links, then the Front Street one for the review!) This is a writer worth watching; her vision is incredible. She creates a totally believable world that you'll want to live in. I promise.
2. Have you been to Dewey's place lately? She's running this really cool contest and yours truly has offered to throw in for the prizes. Come jump on the fun.
3. And finally, speaking of contests and Jennifer Estep, I'm looking for more authors who've published fiction by royalty-paying publishers. Yes, gang, it's time for our summer reading contest, and I am hoping some of you authors, or friends of authors, will stop by and offer up not only prizes, but up to five books or authors who fit the theme of Hidden Treasures.
I've noticed that this is a hot theme this year; I picked it way back in February, so I may be late to the bandwagon, but that's cause I was busy hitching the horses up to it.
Drop me an e-mail for more details. Authors only right now, though! The rest of you can wait a scant two weeks. (Go hunt down Karma Girl in the meantime, okay?)
Labels: book reviews, books, contest, cool stuff, Front Street Reviews, Jennifer Estep, Susan's Book Talk
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Susan's Book Talk: Groupies Galore
I got TWO rejections from agents Monday, and like the two before them, they said the same thing, if you read between the lines. It's either they hate that Trevor gets sick, or that they think they can't sell the book somehow.
I think the worst part is that these rejections I'm getting come in one of two varieties: the form letter that tells me they didn't read past the first word, or else the personal letter that's truly regretful and yet hopeful that I'll find the right one of their colleagues who'll take this on. One of the letters yesterday, from a VP at one of the biggie agencies, handwrote an additional "I am sorry" on the bottom of the letter. Like she'd wanted to take me on but someone stopped her.
Okay, enough of my frustrations. On to the good stuff.
I've been talking to Breeni about having a graphic made for when I talk up my groupies and when you guys blog about me. What do you think? You game? Do you want an official West of Mars Groupie graphic? What? (go on and say t-shirts; I'm on it)
Claire found this gem of an idea. We all know what I want for the world -- for everyone to have the chance to meet Trevor. What do you want?
Now, the real news: Camille at Littlebird blue sent me this link, to Green Man Review, where she's got a few reviews posted. Check them out.
And Karen and Janelle and I have been discussing this one via e-mail: The Bookseller is out with their (his? Her?) annual list of the oddest book titles. Be sure you vote.
Debut a Debut author Joshua Palmatier dropped into my inbox to tell me that his debut novel, The Skewed Throne, is one of the four finalists for the Baltimore Science Fiction Society's Compton Crook/Stephen Tall Memorial Award for best first novel of 2006. HUGE congratulations to Joshua!! May the best book be yours!
Lastly, a shameless plug that you go check out what's new at Front Street Reviews. Nothing from me (I'm too busy with the query letters), but plenty of other gems that you might want to consider for the summer reading contest... Stay tuned for that, as well as that graphic I'm thinking about. If you'd like it, give me a yay or nay in the comments.
I think the worst part is that these rejections I'm getting come in one of two varieties: the form letter that tells me they didn't read past the first word, or else the personal letter that's truly regretful and yet hopeful that I'll find the right one of their colleagues who'll take this on. One of the letters yesterday, from a VP at one of the biggie agencies, handwrote an additional "I am sorry" on the bottom of the letter. Like she'd wanted to take me on but someone stopped her.
Okay, enough of my frustrations. On to the good stuff.
I've been talking to Breeni about having a graphic made for when I talk up my groupies and when you guys blog about me. What do you think? You game? Do you want an official West of Mars Groupie graphic? What? (go on and say t-shirts; I'm on it)
Claire found this gem of an idea. We all know what I want for the world -- for everyone to have the chance to meet Trevor. What do you want?
Now, the real news: Camille at Littlebird blue sent me this link, to Green Man Review, where she's got a few reviews posted. Check them out.
And Karen and Janelle and I have been discussing this one via e-mail: The Bookseller is out with their (his? Her?) annual list of the oddest book titles. Be sure you vote.
Debut a Debut author Joshua Palmatier dropped into my inbox to tell me that his debut novel, The Skewed Throne, is one of the four finalists for the Baltimore Science Fiction Society's Compton Crook/Stephen Tall Memorial Award for best first novel of 2006. HUGE congratulations to Joshua!! May the best book be yours!
Lastly, a shameless plug that you go check out what's new at Front Street Reviews. Nothing from me (I'm too busy with the query letters), but plenty of other gems that you might want to consider for the summer reading contest... Stay tuned for that, as well as that graphic I'm thinking about. If you'd like it, give me a yay or nay in the comments.
Labels: agent hunting, book reviews, books, Front Street Reviews, Green Man Review, Joshua Palmatier, Trevor's Song, writing process
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Susan's Book Talk: The Unthinkable Thoughts of Jacob Green
While we were busy with the Debut a Debut contest, I snuck in a debut, too, albeit an older one. Joshua Braff's The Unthinkable Thoughts of Jacob Green is a book I'd wanted to read since I first heard about it and come on, how can your resist a book whose cover copy talks about a drawing of a rabbi, a pig, and a lobster in a threesome?
My book club agreed to this adventure, I collected a few copies -- because getting books is sometimes a pain -- and we read Jacob's story.
The book is billed as a modern-day Portnoy's complaint and I was expecting Jacob to be similar to Portnoy in that his teenagered sexual awakening dominated things. Nope. Instead, this book is about Jacob's relationships with his father and, ultimately, with his brother. And while absolutely nothing in my background is similar to Jacob's -- well, okay, we've got that religion thing going -- I got this book so totally, I cried through the final confrontation scene.
As for the ending, I got that, too.
This is one of those don't miss books. You can be sure I'll be picking up copies at used book stores and sales and sharing them with you guys. Assuming you wisely decide you can't wait that long.
Just be prepared: the rabbi, the lobster, and the pig aren't the major players you sort of wish they'd be. Sadly.
My book club agreed to this adventure, I collected a few copies -- because getting books is sometimes a pain -- and we read Jacob's story.
The book is billed as a modern-day Portnoy's complaint and I was expecting Jacob to be similar to Portnoy in that his teenagered sexual awakening dominated things. Nope. Instead, this book is about Jacob's relationships with his father and, ultimately, with his brother. And while absolutely nothing in my background is similar to Jacob's -- well, okay, we've got that religion thing going -- I got this book so totally, I cried through the final confrontation scene.
As for the ending, I got that, too.
This is one of those don't miss books. You can be sure I'll be picking up copies at used book stores and sales and sharing them with you guys. Assuming you wisely decide you can't wait that long.
Just be prepared: the rabbi, the lobster, and the pig aren't the major players you sort of wish they'd be. Sadly.
Labels: book reviews, books, Joshua Braff
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Susan's Reviewed a Book!
Check out my review of LL Cool J's Platinum Workout, now posted at Front Street Reviews.
Best line in the book? Near the end, when LL is telling the ladies not to worry about bulking up too much. "Believe me, ladies, I want to be the hardest thing in the bed."
You've got to love a man who can slip a line like that into an exercise book.
And in Debut a Debut news...
Karen has featured one of our debut authors (and prize contributors). Make sure you stop in if you like historical fiction.
Looking to start a new series? Try Heather Hayashi's To Save the World. I don't know much about Hayashi (yet), but it seems that her series is directed at gamers. The Tour Manager will be pleased.
Best line in the book? Near the end, when LL is telling the ladies not to worry about bulking up too much. "Believe me, ladies, I want to be the hardest thing in the bed."
You've got to love a man who can slip a line like that into an exercise book.
And in Debut a Debut news...
Karen has featured one of our debut authors (and prize contributors). Make sure you stop in if you like historical fiction.
Looking to start a new series? Try Heather Hayashi's To Save the World. I don't know much about Hayashi (yet), but it seems that her series is directed at gamers. The Tour Manager will be pleased.
Labels: book reviews, contest, Debut a Debut, Front Street Reviews, LL Cool J
Friday, December 15, 2006
Susan's Book Talk: Who Knew Punk was so Hot?
Another book about punk rock has entered my radar: Babylon's Burning: From Punk to Grunge, by Clinton Heylin.
Best known as a biographer of Bob Dylan, Heylin's apparently written other books about punk: From the Velvets to the Voidoids, and All Yesterday's Parties: The Velvet Underground in Print, among other books about music.
Well. If you don't remember what happened the LAST time I blogged about a book about punk, let me refresh your memory.
One book hardly makes me an expert on the genre of books about punk, but I'm sure game to turn myself into one. Therefore, I'd like to hand down this challenge:
If Barb at Front Street Reviews is willing, and if someone in Mr. Heylin's camp is willing, I'll read Babylon's Burning and review it for all of you. We'll see how this Brit's take on punk compares to Steven Lee Beeber's.
Given that we've got the perspectives of two different countries, each rich in punk tradition, I think this could be an interesting project.
Best known as a biographer of Bob Dylan, Heylin's apparently written other books about punk: From the Velvets to the Voidoids, and All Yesterday's Parties: The Velvet Underground in Print, among other books about music.
Well. If you don't remember what happened the LAST time I blogged about a book about punk, let me refresh your memory.
One book hardly makes me an expert on the genre of books about punk, but I'm sure game to turn myself into one. Therefore, I'd like to hand down this challenge:
If Barb at Front Street Reviews is willing, and if someone in Mr. Heylin's camp is willing, I'll read Babylon's Burning and review it for all of you. We'll see how this Brit's take on punk compares to Steven Lee Beeber's.
Given that we've got the perspectives of two different countries, each rich in punk tradition, I think this could be an interesting project.
Labels: book reviews, books, challenge, Front Street Reviews, publishing, punk rock, rock and roll
Saturday, December 02, 2006
Susan's Publishing News
Go to Front Street Reviews and click on Non-fiction.
See a review for a book I've mentioned here a few times? You know, that Heebie Jeebies book?
See who wrote it?
Yeah, that's right. That'd be me.
Read the review. Buy the book. Read the book. Read the review again; I'm worth a second look.
Then, go back to Front Street Reviews and find more good stuff to read.
See a review for a book I've mentioned here a few times? You know, that Heebie Jeebies book?
See who wrote it?
Yeah, that's right. That'd be me.
Read the review. Buy the book. Read the book. Read the review again; I'm worth a second look.
Then, go back to Front Street Reviews and find more good stuff to read.
Labels: book reviews, cool stuff, Front Street Reviews, music, publishing, punk rock
