I'd like to thank everyone who participated in my latest contest, giving away copies of my upcoming novel Friends in Deed. I'm deeply humbled by everyone's desire to win a copy, as we had right around 200 entries total.
But you're not here to listen to me wax philosophical...you're here to see if you've won...so let's get started:
First, a big congratulations to Jae / @o0omunkieo0o, who had the most entries by far out of all those in the contest (driven mostly by referral entries...watch for her in the 2012 Presidential Election, seriously!).
Second place in the most entries category goes to Meta / @saddy82. Interestingly enough, she won this simply by posting consistently across most of the entry locations on each day of the contest.
Again, congratulations ladies for your hard work that really paid off!!!
Now, the random picks from each of my four entry locations:
From my main blog: Tami Winbush (@twinbush) and Chels (@alltimeChels)
From my MySpace page: Pam Biddlecone and Beth Fisher (@BethGFisher)
From my Facebook page: Angie Lofthouse (@angielofthouse) and RJ Dennis (@rjdennis)
And finally, from all the Twitter entries: @lilmunkie and @Boodlezoid
Congratulations to all, and your copy of Friends in Deed should be on its way!
Thanks again to everyone who entered the contest, and if you weren't one of the lucky winners, be sure to get a copy of your very own when the book goes on sale January 2.
31 December 2009
26 December 2009
Merry Christmas! Didn't Get Enough Gifts? I've Got You Covered
Merry Christmas to all! Hope you're having a tremendous holiday season and are staying in out of the cold, ice and snow (for those in such weather...if you're in the tropics, make sure to put on the sunscreen).
I'm still in the gift-giving spirit, however, and as anyone who's known me for very long will attest, I get psychotic about giving away stuff. It just so happens that I have a new book, Friends in Deed, coming out January 2...but I really want to give away stuff before the new year. So, anyone knows what that means?
Yup! You're going to have the chance to WIN IT BEFORE YOU CAN BUY IT!
So, here's the details:
I have ten e-book copies of my book available to give away (sorry folks, the print copy appears to still be about a month away). I'm going to hold separate points for everyone to get their entries in at my various haunts:
My Blog page
My Facebook page
My MySpace page
My Twitter feed
The general way you get entries is two-fold. Everyone who posts (or in the case of Twitter, @-replies me) can just tell me they want a copy and get one entry at each of the above spots. But if you know people (and most of us do), tell them about the contest, get them to enter and make sure they let me know that you referred them. That way, they get an entry and you get an additional entry for the referral. It's a WIN-WIN for everyone!
But it doesn't stop there (remember I'm a psycho when it comes to giving things away)...
There are going to be several days between now and when I give these books away on 12/31. So, you can enter once each day by telling me you want a copy (and thus get yourself multiple entries), and get as many referral entries as you possibly can.
In the end, I'm going to pick two winners from each entry location, at random, based on the entries received. From past experience, some of these locations don't get near-enough entries and I end up giving free stuff to everyone who posted. Go figure! Get your entries in at all those spots and increase your odds.
But wait, I'm an engineer (or at least claim to be). Two winners at four spots only comes up to eight winners, not ten...what's up with that math? Well, that's where the two final winners come in. I'm going to let sheer numbers decide this one. The two contestants with the most entries across all of the entry locations are going to win their own copy, hands-down. So, if you don't ever seem to have luck, hard work is going to be rewarded!
So, if that doesn't seem as complicated as it sounds, get on out there and win some copies of Friends in Deed!!!
And if you don't win, don't fret. Copies will be available for purchase shortly...stay tuned for information.
I'm still in the gift-giving spirit, however, and as anyone who's known me for very long will attest, I get psychotic about giving away stuff. It just so happens that I have a new book, Friends in Deed, coming out January 2...but I really want to give away stuff before the new year. So, anyone knows what that means?
Yup! You're going to have the chance to WIN IT BEFORE YOU CAN BUY IT!
So, here's the details:
I have ten e-book copies of my book available to give away (sorry folks, the print copy appears to still be about a month away). I'm going to hold separate points for everyone to get their entries in at my various haunts:
My Blog page
My Facebook page
My MySpace page
My Twitter feed
The general way you get entries is two-fold. Everyone who posts (or in the case of Twitter, @-replies me) can just tell me they want a copy and get one entry at each of the above spots. But if you know people (and most of us do), tell them about the contest, get them to enter and make sure they let me know that you referred them. That way, they get an entry and you get an additional entry for the referral. It's a WIN-WIN for everyone!
But it doesn't stop there (remember I'm a psycho when it comes to giving things away)...
There are going to be several days between now and when I give these books away on 12/31. So, you can enter once each day by telling me you want a copy (and thus get yourself multiple entries), and get as many referral entries as you possibly can.
In the end, I'm going to pick two winners from each entry location, at random, based on the entries received. From past experience, some of these locations don't get near-enough entries and I end up giving free stuff to everyone who posted. Go figure! Get your entries in at all those spots and increase your odds.
But wait, I'm an engineer (or at least claim to be). Two winners at four spots only comes up to eight winners, not ten...what's up with that math? Well, that's where the two final winners come in. I'm going to let sheer numbers decide this one. The two contestants with the most entries across all of the entry locations are going to win their own copy, hands-down. So, if you don't ever seem to have luck, hard work is going to be rewarded!
So, if that doesn't seem as complicated as it sounds, get on out there and win some copies of Friends in Deed!!!
And if you don't win, don't fret. Copies will be available for purchase shortly...stay tuned for information.
24 December 2009
A Grand Old Holiday Tale!
This is an Aston West piece I created a year or two back...figured I'd dredge it back up for some good, old-fashioned Christmas cheer. Enjoy!
***
I turned toward the entrance, sighed, then finished off my glass. I’d been waiting forever for my buyer to show up, and had nothing but an empty bar to show for it. So much for making a quick sale. If it took much longer, I’d have to consider myself duped and take off for another spot down the shipping lane, a few credits lighter from topping off my tanks.
At least the bartender had an ample supply of Vladirian liquor. A near-empty bottle rested on the counter next to my other hand. I poured the glass full again.
The entry hatch slid open and caught my attention. I turned with a smile, only to turn into a sourpuss a moment later. This wasn’t the buyer I was waiting for, but some old, bearded fat man in a red jumpsuit. Small, round silver balls were tied to a black belt around his giant waist. They jingled with each step he took in my direction. I turned toward the front and slammed the glass back. The sweet yellow nectar flowed down my throat.
He pulled himself up on the stool next to me. I looked over with a scowl, wondering why he couldn’t have taken one of the many other seats. I was big on my personal space.
He pulled his red cap off and wiped gray strands across his skull. “Hello, Aston.”
I didn’t have a good feeling. “Do I know you?”
“I know everyone.” He held out a black glove. “Kris Kringle. You can call me Santa.”
I raised an eyebrow. I would have remembered this character. “And why do you need to know everyone?”
He pulled his hand back, finally realizing how futile the move was, then rested his elbows on the counter. “I give presents to good little boys and girls all over the universe. I have to know them all.”
A shiver ran up my spine. “That’s a lot of presents.”
“Tell me about it.” The bartender came over, but Kris waved him off. I idly wondered what he was doing here if he wasn’t going to drink.
“I don’t remember ever getting presents growing up.”
His cheeks turned bright red as he laughed deep from his belly. “Well, if memory serves, you weren’t exactly a good little boy.”
I let the insult slide. Life hadn’t dealt me a very kind hand with the death of my parents when I was young. I didn’t really expect this old man to understand.
“Unfortunately, even good little boys and girls have trouble believing in me. I have to pass them by, same as the bad ones.”
“Pass them by? Not give them presents?”
“Exactly. You can’t get presents from someone you don’t believe in.”
“And so these presents, how do you deliver them?”
“I enter their homes while they’re sleeping and leave the presents in secret.”
My forehead scrunched even tighter. “While they’re sleeping?”
“I’d never be able to deliver all of these presents if they were hanging onto me, begging me to stay longer.”
I emptied the bottle and raised my glass. “So, why do you give presents to them?”
“Because I love them. They’re all so innocent, untainted by the evils of the world.”
I shot a glance at the bartender, who had an equally concerned look before he shook his head and walked through a swinging door, out of sight. I turned back to Kringle, and eased myself a little farther away on the stool.
“So, let me get this straight. You love little boys and girls, sneak around their homes while they’re sleeping, and leave them presents?”
His mouth turned up and his eyes sparkled. “Exactly!”
“You sound like a sick freak to me.” I downed the rest of my drink in one gulp and turned to leave.
He gripped my arm, with surprising strength for such an old man. “What are you talking about? I bring joy to good little boys and girls all over the universe.”
I tried to pull myself free, but he wasn’t releasing his grip. “You need to let go.”
“Don’t you understand? I’m trying to spread goodwill and happiness, to let children keep a small piece of their innocence. I’ve come here to ask for your help, Aston.”
I reached inside my jacket and yanked out my Mark II blaster. Before he could react, I fired a single shot into his chest. He fell from the stool and crashed to the floor. I shoved the weapon back in its holster. “Sorry, Santa, you’re going to need more help than I can give.”
The bartender rushed back into the room. He took one look at the big man, and then glanced up at me.
“You might want to call the local authorities. I think they’d be mighty interested in talking to this one.” I continued toward the exit. He’d wake up later, a little sore, but none the worse for wear. I didn’t figure children really needed the goodwill and happiness this dirty old man was pushing.
***
I turned toward the entrance, sighed, then finished off my glass. I’d been waiting forever for my buyer to show up, and had nothing but an empty bar to show for it. So much for making a quick sale. If it took much longer, I’d have to consider myself duped and take off for another spot down the shipping lane, a few credits lighter from topping off my tanks.
At least the bartender had an ample supply of Vladirian liquor. A near-empty bottle rested on the counter next to my other hand. I poured the glass full again.
The entry hatch slid open and caught my attention. I turned with a smile, only to turn into a sourpuss a moment later. This wasn’t the buyer I was waiting for, but some old, bearded fat man in a red jumpsuit. Small, round silver balls were tied to a black belt around his giant waist. They jingled with each step he took in my direction. I turned toward the front and slammed the glass back. The sweet yellow nectar flowed down my throat.
He pulled himself up on the stool next to me. I looked over with a scowl, wondering why he couldn’t have taken one of the many other seats. I was big on my personal space.
He pulled his red cap off and wiped gray strands across his skull. “Hello, Aston.”
I didn’t have a good feeling. “Do I know you?”
“I know everyone.” He held out a black glove. “Kris Kringle. You can call me Santa.”
I raised an eyebrow. I would have remembered this character. “And why do you need to know everyone?”
He pulled his hand back, finally realizing how futile the move was, then rested his elbows on the counter. “I give presents to good little boys and girls all over the universe. I have to know them all.”
A shiver ran up my spine. “That’s a lot of presents.”
“Tell me about it.” The bartender came over, but Kris waved him off. I idly wondered what he was doing here if he wasn’t going to drink.
“I don’t remember ever getting presents growing up.”
His cheeks turned bright red as he laughed deep from his belly. “Well, if memory serves, you weren’t exactly a good little boy.”
I let the insult slide. Life hadn’t dealt me a very kind hand with the death of my parents when I was young. I didn’t really expect this old man to understand.
“Unfortunately, even good little boys and girls have trouble believing in me. I have to pass them by, same as the bad ones.”
“Pass them by? Not give them presents?”
“Exactly. You can’t get presents from someone you don’t believe in.”
“And so these presents, how do you deliver them?”
“I enter their homes while they’re sleeping and leave the presents in secret.”
My forehead scrunched even tighter. “While they’re sleeping?”
“I’d never be able to deliver all of these presents if they were hanging onto me, begging me to stay longer.”
I emptied the bottle and raised my glass. “So, why do you give presents to them?”
“Because I love them. They’re all so innocent, untainted by the evils of the world.”
I shot a glance at the bartender, who had an equally concerned look before he shook his head and walked through a swinging door, out of sight. I turned back to Kringle, and eased myself a little farther away on the stool.
“So, let me get this straight. You love little boys and girls, sneak around their homes while they’re sleeping, and leave them presents?”
His mouth turned up and his eyes sparkled. “Exactly!”
“You sound like a sick freak to me.” I downed the rest of my drink in one gulp and turned to leave.
He gripped my arm, with surprising strength for such an old man. “What are you talking about? I bring joy to good little boys and girls all over the universe.”
I tried to pull myself free, but he wasn’t releasing his grip. “You need to let go.”
“Don’t you understand? I’m trying to spread goodwill and happiness, to let children keep a small piece of their innocence. I’ve come here to ask for your help, Aston.”
I reached inside my jacket and yanked out my Mark II blaster. Before he could react, I fired a single shot into his chest. He fell from the stool and crashed to the floor. I shoved the weapon back in its holster. “Sorry, Santa, you’re going to need more help than I can give.”
The bartender rushed back into the room. He took one look at the big man, and then glanced up at me.
“You might want to call the local authorities. I think they’d be mighty interested in talking to this one.” I continued toward the exit. He’d wake up later, a little sore, but none the worse for wear. I didn’t figure children really needed the goodwill and happiness this dirty old man was pushing.
16 December 2009
Weekly Goals - December 15, 2009
Unfortunately, no excuses this week...just didn't get my stuff together. Christmas break is supposed to be coming soon, so we'll see how it goes.
Results for this week:
1. Less than 800 words
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 1500 words on Death Brings the Victory
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Less than 800 words
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 1500 words on Death Brings the Victory
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
09 December 2009
Weekly Goals - December 8, 2009
Well, as some of you may have noticed, I received my cover art this past week. I also received my final proofs to review...which is where most of my writing time has been spent. Although I was able to get some hand-written text generated, haven't had the time to work it into the computer. So, this past week has been considered a wash. Should have the proofs completed in the next day or so, though, so time to get cranking...
In case you weren't aware, my story "Entrapment" is now available in its entirety for free over at Smashwords. It's a little trial run I'm performing, to see how their operation works. It's a great story, introducing a new character whom I've already written three other stories around. So, feel free to take a read, and let me know how your experience is with Smashwords, so I'll get some data for my experiment.
Results for this week:
1. Not even started
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2500 words on Death Brings the Victory
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (now available for free at Smashwords)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
In case you weren't aware, my story "Entrapment" is now available in its entirety for free over at Smashwords. It's a little trial run I'm performing, to see how their operation works. It's a great story, introducing a new character whom I've already written three other stories around. So, feel free to take a read, and let me know how your experience is with Smashwords, so I'll get some data for my experiment.
Results for this week:
1. Not even started
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2500 words on Death Brings the Victory
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (now available for free at Smashwords)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
08 December 2009
Just Wanted to Mention
In case anyone skipped their cappuccino or latte this morning, looks like Fictionwise has discounted Heroes Die Young by 60% (not sure how long this will last)...enjoy!
05 December 2009
Cover Art
For those who haven't already seen it, I recently received cover art for my new novel Friends in Deed (coming January 2010). Enjoy!
01 December 2009
Weekly Goals - December 1, 2009
Thankfully (pardon the pun) the holiday didn't put too much of a damper on the writing...it helps to reduce the expectations. So, now we're in a new month...and time to see if we can build on the momentum and push through Christmas into the new year.
Results for this week:
1. Completed just over 2000 words
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2500 words on Death Brings the Victory
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (now available for free at Smashwords)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Completed just over 2000 words
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2500 words on Death Brings the Victory
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (now available for free at Smashwords)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
25 November 2009
Belated Story Announcement
18 months after the fact, I discover that my story "No Good Deed" HAD in fact been published with Ray Gun Revival (back in May 2008). Makes me feel bad that I've been bugging them about this story. Sorry guys! (in my defense, the forum post doesn't mention the story, but open the issue and it's right there)
So, if you'd like to check out a really short, quick read, be sure to check out "No Good Deed" over this Thanksgiving break.
So, if you'd like to check out a really short, quick read, be sure to check out "No Good Deed" over this Thanksgiving break.
24 November 2009
Weekly Goals - November 24, 2009
Well, I did end up writing the amount of words I wanted to this week...just happened to do it all on one project. Oops. With Thanksgiving coming up this week, I'm tempted to cut back...but won't. Let's see what happens.
Results for this week:
1. Didn't even get started
2. Completed over 2000 words (and finished the first draft)
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Didn't even get started
2. Completed over 2000 words (and finished the first draft)
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
New Interview
For those interested, I was recently interviewed by Author Offerings (don't worry, my interview is clean, despite the form warning about adult content).
18 November 2009
Weekly Goals - November 17, 2009
Sadly, I've been seriously slacking when it comes to the writing lately. Not a good plan, coming up on Thanksgiving.
Results for this week:
1. Completed 1000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. Didn't even get started
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 1000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. 1000 words (or first draft completion) on "Hiding in the Shadows"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Completed 1000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. Didn't even get started
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 1000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. 1000 words (or first draft completion) on "Hiding in the Shadows"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
14 November 2009
In Other Good News...
So far, this has turned out to be a rather fun month (at least on the writing side of things)...my novel HEROES DIE YOUNG is now available as an audiobook over at Audible.com for those who prefer listening to books over reading the written word.
10 November 2009
Weekly Goals - November 10, 2009
Coming off some pretty nasty illness, things still went fairly well this week. However, with the holiday coming up, along with work stresses, I think I'm going to keep things light in the weeks to come.
Results for this week:
1. Around 1400 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. Around 1600 words on "Hiding in the Shadows"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 1000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. 1000 words (or first draft completion) on "Hiding in the Shadows"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (waiting on beta input)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Around 1400 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. Around 1600 words on "Hiding in the Shadows"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 1000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. 1000 words (or first draft completion) on "Hiding in the Shadows"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (waiting on beta input)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
03 November 2009
"Redemption" Now Available
Just a quick post to let everyone know that my latest Aston West story "Redemption" is now available to read (for free) over at Residential Aliens. Enjoy!
Weekly Goals - November 3, 2009
Well, things started off well, and then the sickness blew into town. So, unfortunately, fell a little sort on this week's goals.
Results for this week:
1. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. Around 400 words on "Hiding in the Shadows"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 1000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. 1000 words on "Hiding in the Shadows"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (submitted October 25)
"Deadly Decisions" (waiting on beta input)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. Around 400 words on "Hiding in the Shadows"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 1000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. 1000 words on "Hiding in the Shadows"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (submitted October 25)
"Deadly Decisions" (waiting on beta input)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
28 October 2009
Weekly Goals - October 27, 2009
A bit off this week...seems rather touch and go lately.
Results for this week:
1. 1000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. Submitted "Conventional Wisdom"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. 2000 words on "Hiding in the Shadows"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (submitted October 25)
"Deadly Decisions" (waiting on beta input)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. 1000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. Submitted "Conventional Wisdom"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. 2000 words on "Hiding in the Shadows"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (submitted October 25)
"Deadly Decisions" (waiting on beta input)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
20 October 2009
Weekly Goals - October 20, 2009
A bit stronger this week, though I forgot one of my goals while I focused on the writing side. Still the acceptance of last week's submission sort of makes up for it.
Results for this week:
1. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. Forgot to submit "Conventional Wisdom" off
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. Submit "Conventional Wisdom" off to a magazine
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Redemption" (ACCEPTED)
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (waiting on beta input)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. Forgot to submit "Conventional Wisdom" off
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory
2. Submit "Conventional Wisdom" off to a magazine
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Redemption" (ACCEPTED)
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (waiting on beta input)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
13 October 2009
Weekly Goals - October 13, 2009
Started off strong, but fell short where it mattered (not helped by a contract falling through on a short story submitted long ago). Hopefully this week will be much improved...
Results for this week:
1. 2000 words on "Hiding in the Shadows"
2. 500 words on Death Brings the Victory
3. Submitted "Redemption" off to another magazine (after previously mentioned contract issues) [added]
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory (the 3rd Aston West novel)
2. Submit "Conventional Wisdom" off to a magazine
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Redemption" (re-submitted October 12)
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (waiting on beta input)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. 2000 words on "Hiding in the Shadows"
2. 500 words on Death Brings the Victory
3. Submitted "Redemption" off to another magazine (after previously mentioned contract issues) [added]
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory (the 3rd Aston West novel)
2. Submit "Conventional Wisdom" off to a magazine
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Redemption" (re-submitted October 12)
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (waiting on beta input)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
07 October 2009
Weekly Goals - October 6, 2009
Well, a better outcome on the goals this week. Actually, I'd met my original goals with around 4 days left, so kept working on my latest short story. Unfortunately, I didn't get them typed in on time, so those will have to count toward next week.
Results for this week:
1. Sent the story off to its beta readers. Waiting for comments to return.
2. Completed over 2000 words on "Hiding in the Shadows" (with more handwritten, but not yet counted)
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2000 words on my new story, "Hiding in the Shadows"
2. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory (the 3rd Aston West novel)
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (waiting on beta input)
"Deadly Decisions" (waiting on beta input)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Sent the story off to its beta readers. Waiting for comments to return.
2. Completed over 2000 words on "Hiding in the Shadows" (with more handwritten, but not yet counted)
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 2000 words on my new story, "Hiding in the Shadows"
2. 2000 words on Death Brings the Victory (the 3rd Aston West novel)
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (waiting on beta input)
"Deadly Decisions" (waiting on beta input)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
03 October 2009
Plotting a Short Story
So, how do I go about plotting a short story?
First, I start out putting my characters into a situation they'd likely be in (in the case of Aston, there aren't too many situations he *wouldn't* find himself in). Then, I began asking myself what could possibly happen (in most cases, I ask what could possibly go wrong) and how Aston will respond. From there, it's a simple case of repetition, continuing to ask those questions and determine Aston's response until I reach the end of the story.
Take my story "Ever Dark" for example (and if you haven't read it, be sure to check it out in Ray Gun Revival)
When plotting this story, I started off with a simple premise. Aston is sitting out in deep space minding his own business.
So, what could happen/go wrong? A ship can drop out of hyperspace right in front of him.
What does Aston do? Finds out the ship full of precious cargo.
What then? He discovers this ship has no crew.
What does Aston do? Boards it to grab some cargo.
What then? The law shows up.
What does Aston do? Tries to run.
What then? They catch him and want to board his ship.
What does Aston do? Weasels his way out of it.
Now, I could keep going, but then I'd be giving away the ending of the story to those who hadn't already read it. Needless to say, I eventually reach the story. Now, how I get between these points is open, but generally I keep the same points I plot out in this manner. This generally works for short stories...novels are a little tougher, because usually plot points are tied together so much that if something gets misaligned along the way, entire plot lines end up skewed later.
And that's how I personally plot out a short story. Hopefully it's been helpful to those new to short story writing (or writing in general), and given those experienced writers out there another tool in their belt.
Until next week...
First, I start out putting my characters into a situation they'd likely be in (in the case of Aston, there aren't too many situations he *wouldn't* find himself in). Then, I began asking myself what could possibly happen (in most cases, I ask what could possibly go wrong) and how Aston will respond. From there, it's a simple case of repetition, continuing to ask those questions and determine Aston's response until I reach the end of the story.
Take my story "Ever Dark" for example (and if you haven't read it, be sure to check it out in Ray Gun Revival)
When plotting this story, I started off with a simple premise. Aston is sitting out in deep space minding his own business.
So, what could happen/go wrong? A ship can drop out of hyperspace right in front of him.
What does Aston do? Finds out the ship full of precious cargo.
What then? He discovers this ship has no crew.
What does Aston do? Boards it to grab some cargo.
What then? The law shows up.
What does Aston do? Tries to run.
What then? They catch him and want to board his ship.
What does Aston do? Weasels his way out of it.
Now, I could keep going, but then I'd be giving away the ending of the story to those who hadn't already read it. Needless to say, I eventually reach the story. Now, how I get between these points is open, but generally I keep the same points I plot out in this manner. This generally works for short stories...novels are a little tougher, because usually plot points are tied together so much that if something gets misaligned along the way, entire plot lines end up skewed later.
And that's how I personally plot out a short story. Hopefully it's been helpful to those new to short story writing (or writing in general), and given those experienced writers out there another tool in their belt.
Until next week...
29 September 2009
Weekly Goals - September 29, 2009
A bit of good news this week. Along with the goals information, I also received my contributor copy of Golden Visions magazine. And on top of that, my story "A Thankful Heart" was accepted by Golden Visions as well. See my previous blog post for details.
Results for this week:
1. Completed editing on "Conventional Wisdom" (was "Trust") and sent of to beta readers
2. Only completed around 1000 words on "Hiding in the Shadows"
3. Completed edits on "Deadly Decisions" and still need to get some beta input.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Send "Deadly Decisions" off to some beta readers
2. 1500 words on my new story, "Hiding in the Shadows"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (waiting on beta input)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (ACCEPTED)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Completed editing on "Conventional Wisdom" (was "Trust") and sent of to beta readers
2. Only completed around 1000 words on "Hiding in the Shadows"
3. Completed edits on "Deadly Decisions" and still need to get some beta input.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Send "Deadly Decisions" off to some beta readers
2. 1500 words on my new story, "Hiding in the Shadows"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Conventional Wisdom" (waiting on beta input)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (ACCEPTED)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
27 September 2009
New Publication!
Just thought I'd share the news that my story "Profit and Loss" is now available in the October Issue (print) of Golden Visions Magazine. This is my first print edition (my contributor copy is on its way), so something I'm rather proud of.
Head on over and get yourself a copy. They have them available in print or PDF (the "buy now" buttons aren't labeled very well, so pay attention to what you're adding to your cart).
And of course, enjoy the story!
Head on over and get yourself a copy. They have them available in print or PDF (the "buy now" buttons aren't labeled very well, so pay attention to what you're adding to your cart).
And of course, enjoy the story!
26 September 2009
Why I Do What I Do
Wow, an actual blog post? I'm shocked as much as you are. I'm going to attempt to start working toward putting up weekly blogs (I'll still be posting up the goals posts) again. We'll see how it goes.
***
Writing is a depressing business. All sorts of work, relatively little pay (certainly not enough to live on, at least in my case anyway), giving up most of a social life in order to stay in and write your next novel/short story. Putting yourself and your abilities out there for a high risk of ridicule and rejection. It's a wonder that anyone does it. But there are so many of us out there who still do.
In my case, I tend to spend most of my time in front of my laptop, or working on notebook paper, scribbling out manuscripts, notes, or other assorted odds and ends. It's very rare when I won't take writing work with me places I go, even if it's a social setting. The trouble is, with a day job taking up most of my time, what I have left for writing is limited. So, I use up as much time as possible to get work accomplished. Otherwise, it would likely take several years to get a novel written, or several months to get a short story completed (not counting the endless amounts of time required for the query and submission processes). If I was satisfied with that pace, I'd never be a success at writing. To be a success, one has to complete a lot of work, and in a timely fashion.
Given the relatively small rewards available to writers, one has to beg the question...
Why do I do what I do?
To answer this, one probably needs a little background on me, personally. My mother was an English teacher before she died (I was a teenager at the time) and consistently harped on my skills, growing up. It's one of the things I'm glad for, because engineers (my day job) are generally notorious when it comes to spelling, grammar, sentence structure, etc.
I started writing at a fairly young age, and she always encouraged me in it. I can't recall where I ever finished a piece while she was still living, so she never had the chance to read my work. And that's a good thing, as those early works were utter dreck. Ultimately, her death proved to be the spark that ignited my writing, and took it to the next level. Suddenly, I had a point of reference for a vast array of emotions that I'd never experienced before.
So, if I had to guess why I put myself through the abuse I do, I imagine it would be in part an attempt to honor her memory. Knowing she encouraged me down this writer's path leads me to think she's likely looking down at me and what I've accomplished so far, and I'd like to think that she's proud.
And as many have said before me, the best is yet to come.
***
Writing is a depressing business. All sorts of work, relatively little pay (certainly not enough to live on, at least in my case anyway), giving up most of a social life in order to stay in and write your next novel/short story. Putting yourself and your abilities out there for a high risk of ridicule and rejection. It's a wonder that anyone does it. But there are so many of us out there who still do.
In my case, I tend to spend most of my time in front of my laptop, or working on notebook paper, scribbling out manuscripts, notes, or other assorted odds and ends. It's very rare when I won't take writing work with me places I go, even if it's a social setting. The trouble is, with a day job taking up most of my time, what I have left for writing is limited. So, I use up as much time as possible to get work accomplished. Otherwise, it would likely take several years to get a novel written, or several months to get a short story completed (not counting the endless amounts of time required for the query and submission processes). If I was satisfied with that pace, I'd never be a success at writing. To be a success, one has to complete a lot of work, and in a timely fashion.
Given the relatively small rewards available to writers, one has to beg the question...
Why do I do what I do?
To answer this, one probably needs a little background on me, personally. My mother was an English teacher before she died (I was a teenager at the time) and consistently harped on my skills, growing up. It's one of the things I'm glad for, because engineers (my day job) are generally notorious when it comes to spelling, grammar, sentence structure, etc.
I started writing at a fairly young age, and she always encouraged me in it. I can't recall where I ever finished a piece while she was still living, so she never had the chance to read my work. And that's a good thing, as those early works were utter dreck. Ultimately, her death proved to be the spark that ignited my writing, and took it to the next level. Suddenly, I had a point of reference for a vast array of emotions that I'd never experienced before.
So, if I had to guess why I put myself through the abuse I do, I imagine it would be in part an attempt to honor her memory. Knowing she encouraged me down this writer's path leads me to think she's likely looking down at me and what I've accomplished so far, and I'd like to think that she's proud.
And as many have said before me, the best is yet to come.
22 September 2009
Weekly Goals - September 22, 2009
Some good work this week, though slacked a little on the second goal.
Results for this week:
1. Completed this round of editing on The Cure
2. Only completed around 1200 words, but hit a scene break and stopped
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit "Trust" and send off to some beta readers
2. 1500 words on my new story, "Hiding in the Shadows" (tentative title)
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Trust" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Completed this round of editing on The Cure
2. Only completed around 1200 words, but hit a scene break and stopped
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit "Trust" and send off to some beta readers
2. 1500 words on my new story, "Hiding in the Shadows" (tentative title)
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Trust" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
15 September 2009
Weekly Goals - September 15, 2009
A week of vacation did me a world of good. Though near the end of the week, I began slacking off toward my writing goals, the relaxation more than made up for it.
Results for this week:
1. Completed around 9.5K words of editing on The Cure
2. Created a book trailer (see my last post -- added goal)
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Complete (approximately 6.5K words left) editing on The Cure
2. 1500 words on my new story, "Hiding in the Shadows" (tentative title)
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Trust" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Completed around 9.5K words of editing on The Cure
2. Created a book trailer (see my last post -- added goal)
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Complete (approximately 6.5K words left) editing on The Cure
2. 1500 words on my new story, "Hiding in the Shadows" (tentative title)
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Trust" (need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
09 September 2009
08 September 2009
Weekly Goals - September 8, 2009
A bit better this week. Hoping to get some things done, since I'm taking this week off from work.
Results for this week:
1. Completed around 11.5K words of editing on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Complete 10K words of editing on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Trust" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Completed around 11.5K words of editing on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Complete 10K words of editing on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since August 31)
"Trust" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
01 September 2009
Weekly Goals - September 1, 2009
Not so good this week...work stresses seem to be working their way into my down time.
Results for this week:
1. Completed approximately 3K words of editing on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Complete 10K words of editing on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (rejected and re-submitted August 31)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Completed approximately 3K words of editing on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Complete 10K words of editing on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (rejected and re-submitted August 31)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
25 August 2009
Weekly Goals - August 25, 2009
A little better off this week. Still not up to full speed, but I can feel the wheels starting to break out of the mud pit.
Results for this week:
1. Finished Blade Dancer by K. M. Tolan
2. Plotted a new story, no title
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Complete 10K words of editing on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Finished Blade Dancer by K. M. Tolan
2. Plotted a new story, no title
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Complete 10K words of editing on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
18 August 2009
Weekly Goals - August 18, 2009
As tends to happen after I put all my efforts into a project with a deadline, have been a big funk for the past week. As such, things have been a bit lax around here.
Results for this week:
1. Still reading Blade Dancer by K. M. Tolan
2. Plotted a new story, preliminarily titled "Dark Corners" [added goal]
3. Submitted "Little White Truths" for another reprint option (subsequently rejected)
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Read Blade Dancer by K.M. Tolan
2. Plot another new story
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Still reading Blade Dancer by K. M. Tolan
2. Plotted a new story, preliminarily titled "Dark Corners" [added goal]
3. Submitted "Little White Truths" for another reprint option (subsequently rejected)
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Read Blade Dancer by K.M. Tolan
2. Plot another new story
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
11 August 2009
Weekly Goals - August 11, 2009
Whew! Finished my weekly goal just in time for the submission deadline. This week will be a bit of a relaxation theme, before heading back into the thick of things on other projects.
Results for this week:
1. Completed all edits on "Seeker" and submitted 8/10.
And now the goals for this coming week:
2. Read Blade Dancer by K.M. Tolan
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Completed all edits on "Seeker" and submitted 8/10.
And now the goals for this coming week:
2. Read Blade Dancer by K.M. Tolan
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Seeker" (submitted August 10)
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
04 August 2009
Weekly Goals - August 4, 2009
Busy busy busy! Halfway through edits, and halfway to the deadline, so need to kick things up a gear or two.
Results for this week:
1. Halfway through edits on "Seeker"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Complete edits on "Seeker" and submit by 8/10
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Halfway through edits on "Seeker"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Complete edits on "Seeker" and submit by 8/10
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
28 July 2009
Weekly Goals - July 28, 2009
Great news! Completed the first draft of my latest, and am now neck deep into edits. Deadline is fast approaching, so will definitely need to get moving...
Results for this week:
1. Completed first draft (~ 25K words) of "Seeker"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Complete one round of edits on "Seeker"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Completed first draft (~ 25K words) of "Seeker"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Complete one round of edits on "Seeker"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
21 July 2009
Weekly Goals - July 21, 2009
Unfortunately, I've been out of town on a vacation. Though some work has been done, hours of (my) driving time hasn't been conducive to much writing.
Results for this week:
1. Right around 17,500 words on Seeker
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Reach 25,000 words on "Seeker"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Right around 17,500 words on Seeker
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Reach 25,000 words on "Seeker"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
14 July 2009
Weekly Goals - July 14, 2009
Almost thought about not posting these results until tomorrow, but then figured I'd better do it while I'm thinking about it, before I have another repeat of last week... :-)
Not quite hitting the mark, despite having some very decent writing days. Just couldn't start them before the weekend... :-\
Results for this week:
1. Just under 15,000 words on Seeker
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Reach 25,000 words on "Seeker"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Not quite hitting the mark, despite having some very decent writing days. Just couldn't start them before the weekend... :-\
Results for this week:
1. Just under 15,000 words on Seeker
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Reach 25,000 words on "Seeker"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since June 26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
09 July 2009
Weekly Goals - July 7, 2009
Wow, I'm such a slacker...forgot to come in here two nights ago and post my results... :-\
Results for this week:
1. Just passed 10,000 words on Seeker (technically, I think this was last night, not before Tuesday)
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Reach 20,000 words on "Seeker"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since 6/26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Just passed 10,000 words on Seeker (technically, I think this was last night, not before Tuesday)
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Reach 20,000 words on "Seeker"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (since 6/26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
30 June 2009
Weekly Goals - June 30, 2009
Whew! A busy week, and unfortunately, I wasn't able to get everything done that I'd wanted to. Of course, it might have helped if I'd first looked at the word count requirements for this new story I'm writing. :-)
Results for this week:
1. Not started
2. 4000+ words completed (against a minimum of 25K)
3. Completed, submitted, and accepted for the October print issue
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 10,000 words on "Seeker"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (re-submitted 6/26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Not started
2. 4000+ words completed (against a minimum of 25K)
3. Completed, submitted, and accepted for the October print issue
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. 10,000 words on "Seeker"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
"A Thankful Heart" (re-submitted 6/26)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
Live Author Chat
Stop on by the CTR Chat Room, where I and three of my fellow Champagne Books authors will be chatting about our books and whatever else comes up! Should be there for a few more hours!
23 June 2009
Weekly Goals - June 23, 2009
Lots of good news this week, but also completed all of my goals from last week. Looking to step things up a bit this coming one.
Results for this week:
1. Just over 4600 words edited on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 3000 words on The Cure
2. Complete first draft of new short story, "The Seeker"
3. Complete edits on "Profit and Loss" for an interested magazine
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Profit and Loss" (ACCEPTED, with requested changes)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Just over 4600 words edited on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 3000 words on The Cure
2. Complete first draft of new short story, "The Seeker"
3. Complete edits on "Profit and Loss" for an interested magazine
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Profit and Loss" (ACCEPTED, with requested changes)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
16 June 2009
Weekly Goals - June 16, 2009
Still in a groove...hoping that things move along well enough that edits will be completed in the next month or two.
Results for this week:
1. Just under 4500 words edited on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 3000 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Profit and Loss" (need to re-submit)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Just under 4500 words edited on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 3000 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Profit and Loss" (need to re-submit)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
09 June 2009
Weekly Goals - June 9, 2009
Edits have been chugging along...getting in a groove.
Results for this week:
1. Just under 3000 words edited on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2000 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Profit and Loss" (need to re-submit)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Just under 3000 words edited on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2000 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since May 30)
"Profit and Loss" (need to re-submit)
"Trust" (since May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
03 June 2009
New Interview Up!
Be sure to check out the Reading-Writing Blog where I have a new interview that just posted...fun stuff!
02 June 2009
Weekly Goals - June 2, 2009
Things have been moving along fairly well. Hoping that things continue along this path for a while.
Results for this week:
1. Just over 5000 words edited on The Cure
2. Submitted 2 stories from list of rejections
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2000 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (removed, re-submitted May 30)
"Profit and Loss" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Trust" (rejected, re-submitted May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Just over 5000 words edited on The Cure
2. Submitted 2 stories from list of rejections
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2000 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (removed, re-submitted May 30)
"Profit and Loss" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Trust" (rejected, re-submitted May 30)
"Deadly Decisions" (need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
27 May 2009
The Contest To Beat All Contests
Welcome, one and all!
Because I get bored easily, am impatient, and love a good giveaway, I'm going to post up this information early.
So, here's the thing...I need to get the word out about my book Heroes Die Young, so as many people as possible can hear about it, read it, and fall in love with it prior to my next book's (Friends in Deed) release in January. So, I'm going to bribe you all to spread the word.
The rules of this contest are simple (at least I'd like to think so): Anyone who racks up 25 "Promotion Points" from now until August 31, 2009 is going to get a free signed print copy of my book Heroes Die Young. It doesn't matter if you already have a copy, get another and give it to your best friend.
Not enough to bribe you, then how about this? Whoever picks up the most "Promotion Points" before the August 31 deadline is going to receive either a $50 gift card to their favorite store (assuming I have some sort of access to said store to purchase one). If they'd rather, I'll offer up an alternative prize package of a copy of the upcoming Heroes Die Young audio book AND the first signed giveaway copy of my next book, Friends in Deed. Their choice!
But not to worry, the next two runners-up in the "Promotion Points" tally won't be left out. Their prize will be a $25 gift card to their favorite store (same restrictions apply as before).
But, you may be asking, how do I get these "Promotion Points" so I can win free stuff? For that, we have to go to the scorecard...
-To receive 5 "Promotion Points": Post a positive written review at any online bookstore such as Amazon. The only restriction (and for 5 points, you'd better believe there would be a restriction) is that the review has to be useful to those who see it. "This book was awesome!" "You should totally buy this book!" and similar statements posted all by themselves are not going to be enough.
-To receive 5 "Promotion Points": copy that GetGlue sidebar bling for Heroes Die Young and post it on your blog.
-To receive 3 "Promotion Points": Post the following blurb, along with a link to AstonWest.com, my book's page on Amazon, and my book's page on Fictionwise.
******
Space pirate Aston West stumbles upon a derelict freighter, fresh from a recent battle, and can’t fight the urge to pilfer a valuable cache of highly illegal weapons. While on-board, however, one last stowaway fights back, thinking him part of an earlier boarding crew. Attack craft return to finish the ship off and Aston has no choice but to save her from certain destruction.
Who is she? What are the weapons for? Why was the freighter destroyed?
Aston discovers more questions than answers, and his life is put in jeopardy every time he stops to catch his breath. His life motto of never getting involved is put to the test, and he must decide whether to become a hero for people in need, or continue his path of self-preservation.
******
-To receive 3 "Promotion Points": Post the following excerpt, along with a link to AstonWest.com, my book's page on Amazon, and my book's page on Fictionwise.
******
I awoke to a seductive female voice. “Aston...”
Too bad for me, it belonged to Jeanie, my ship’s computer. A cruel joke designed for mostly male pilots spending long periods alone. It was even worse when I ignored the fact she was simply a machine programmed to think.
“What?”
“We’re entering the Toris system.”
Our current destination was my gateway to temporary financial security. I sat up from the hard, low-lying bunk, stood, and walked to the bridge. It was a short distance, nonetheless painful, as metallic floor panels clanked under my feet louder than normal.
As I walked onto my bridge, the hyper-speed engines disengaged and slowly wound down. I held onto my captain’s chair to steady myself until the ship reached a constant velocity. I sat down in my chair, reached into the side pocket, and pulled out the same bottle of Vladirian liquor that put me down.
“How are we doing on time?”
“Far ahead of schedule,” responded Jeanie.
The second of my four cargo hatches held a cargo container full of blue organic crystals. When I picked it up, the seller told me to take it to Toris, the outer planet in the system of the same name. I didn’t know why, but I’d double my pay if I made it to Toris fast enough ahead of schedule. They didn’t have to tell me twice.
“Let me know when we reach the station.”
I took a small taste of the light yellow liquid in the bottle. The storekeeper peddling the stuff at my last stop had filled me in with the full story behind the drink. A small animal called a Roshtu secreted the liquid as a defensive measure when attacked. The sweet smell and taste caused the attacking predator to lap it up and become intoxicated, while the Roshtu escaped unharmed. I took another drink, this one longer.
“So, Jeanie, what would you like me to buy you once I get paid?”
“I am currently running at peak performance, and have no requirements.”
I smiled and leaned back in my chair. I usually found scuttled and abandoned cargo, then sold it for profit. Scavenging was a less aggressive form of piracy, and usually safer, since you didn’t have to carry out threats of violence. Unfortunately, such cargo tended to be scarce, and had been more so lately. So, when I’d stumbled into an opportunity to carry cargo, I jumped at the chance. An extra bonus for speedy delivery didn’t hurt matters.
I took another sip of the Vladirian liquor and put it away. There needed to be something left to celebrate my fortune.
“ETA?”
Jeanie ignored my question. “I’m picking up a ship on medium range sensors.”
The hair on the back of my neck rose. “Show me.”
My view screen lit up along the front wall of my bridge. A couple kilpars in length, the lines of the ship were smooth, tapering from the nose to a constant, rectangular cross-section around the first quarter of the hull. Near the back of the ship, I could see bell-shaped nozzles behind four embedded engines, darkened against the starfield. I recognized the configuration, but wanted some confirmation.
“Rulusian freighter?”
She gave the designation. “Green Three.”
I took another look at the sensor screen over my left armrest. “I don’t see any other ships out there.”
“There are none in the vicinity.”
A Rulusian freighter in an alien system, all by itself, made no sense. They often stuck together in vast convoys, to give themselves a better defensive position through sheer numbers.
“Status of the freighter?”
“Engines and main power are down, backup systems are in effect. No shields, no weapons charged.” She paused a moment. “No life signs.”
With the condition of the ship and no crew, I wondered what happened. Then a smile crossed my lips. I was a scavenger pirate at heart and wasn’t about to let a prime opportunity escape.
“Any cargo in the bays?”
Jeanie was hesitant. “Yes.”
“Well,” I chuckled, “what is it?”
“I’m picking up signs of cargo without accompanying records in the transport manifest.”
Contraband.
My smile grew. Rulusians were usually law-abiding. I had no idea why one of their ships would be hauling illegal cargo, but with three open bays on my ship and plenty of time to spare, there was only one thing on my mind.
Jeanie was too smart for her own good. “The logic of this situation does not compute.”
“It’s nice you worry about me, but I’ll be fine.” I nearly laughed at the thought of a machine with feelings.
She remained silent.
“Access their computer, and drop their cargo.”
“Unable to comply.”
If she wasn’t programmed to obey, I would have been upset. There had to be something wrong.
“Explain.”
“The on-board systems were placed under a command-level lockout by the Captain of the vessel. Only the Captain can remove it.”
I clasped my hands behind my head and sighed as Green Three grew larger in the view screen. Finding the freighter made me think my luck was turning for the better. Now, the situation was tougher than it first seemed. My thoughts drifted to the state of the ship.
“Looks like they didn’t want anyone else gaining control. Maybe they abandoned her.”
“That theory appears plausible.”
I ran my hands through my dark brown, wavy locks, then massaged the tension out of the back of my neck. “I guess I’ll just have to go over and drop it manually. Move us to the starboard docking port.”
******
(Note, if you post the blurb and the excerpt in the same spot, it will only be worth 5 points, not 6)
To receive 1 "Promotion Point": Simply give a shout-out for Heroes Die Young, including a reason why people should read it, along with a link to AstonWest.com, my book's page on Amazon, and my book's page on Fictionwise.
Link to AstonWest.com: http://astonwest.com
Link to my book on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Heroes-Die-Young-T-Hunter/dp/1897445784/
Link to my book on Fictionwise: http://www.fictionwise.com/eBooks/eBook74975.htm
Now, just a few ground rules...
-Any entry must stay up for a minimum of 30 days. Any entry that gets deleted or removed before that time will obviously not count.
-Send me an e-mail (to engrboy at msndotcom, with a subject of "Promotion Points Entry" to avoid being deleted as spam) containing a link to where your entry is so I can keep your tally accurate. I'll respond to your e-mail with your current "Promotion Point" total, so if you don't see something back in a few days, be sure to let me know.
-No cheating...anyone found sabotaging others will be disqualified (I don't imagine that will be a problem, but one never knows how vicious people will get with free stuff involved).
Now, most of all, have fun and help spread the word of Heroes Die Young!
Because I get bored easily, am impatient, and love a good giveaway, I'm going to post up this information early.
So, here's the thing...I need to get the word out about my book Heroes Die Young, so as many people as possible can hear about it, read it, and fall in love with it prior to my next book's (Friends in Deed) release in January. So, I'm going to bribe you all to spread the word.
The rules of this contest are simple (at least I'd like to think so): Anyone who racks up 25 "Promotion Points" from now until August 31, 2009 is going to get a free signed print copy of my book Heroes Die Young. It doesn't matter if you already have a copy, get another and give it to your best friend.
Not enough to bribe you, then how about this? Whoever picks up the most "Promotion Points" before the August 31 deadline is going to receive either a $50 gift card to their favorite store (assuming I have some sort of access to said store to purchase one). If they'd rather, I'll offer up an alternative prize package of a copy of the upcoming Heroes Die Young audio book AND the first signed giveaway copy of my next book, Friends in Deed. Their choice!
But not to worry, the next two runners-up in the "Promotion Points" tally won't be left out. Their prize will be a $25 gift card to their favorite store (same restrictions apply as before).
But, you may be asking, how do I get these "Promotion Points" so I can win free stuff? For that, we have to go to the scorecard...
-To receive 5 "Promotion Points": Post a positive written review at any online bookstore such as Amazon. The only restriction (and for 5 points, you'd better believe there would be a restriction) is that the review has to be useful to those who see it. "This book was awesome!" "You should totally buy this book!" and similar statements posted all by themselves are not going to be enough.
-To receive 5 "Promotion Points": copy that GetGlue sidebar bling for Heroes Die Young and post it on your blog.
-To receive 3 "Promotion Points": Post the following blurb, along with a link to AstonWest.com, my book's page on Amazon, and my book's page on Fictionwise.
******
Space pirate Aston West stumbles upon a derelict freighter, fresh from a recent battle, and can’t fight the urge to pilfer a valuable cache of highly illegal weapons. While on-board, however, one last stowaway fights back, thinking him part of an earlier boarding crew. Attack craft return to finish the ship off and Aston has no choice but to save her from certain destruction.
Who is she? What are the weapons for? Why was the freighter destroyed?
Aston discovers more questions than answers, and his life is put in jeopardy every time he stops to catch his breath. His life motto of never getting involved is put to the test, and he must decide whether to become a hero for people in need, or continue his path of self-preservation.
******
-To receive 3 "Promotion Points": Post the following excerpt, along with a link to AstonWest.com, my book's page on Amazon, and my book's page on Fictionwise.
******
I awoke to a seductive female voice. “Aston...”
Too bad for me, it belonged to Jeanie, my ship’s computer. A cruel joke designed for mostly male pilots spending long periods alone. It was even worse when I ignored the fact she was simply a machine programmed to think.
“What?”
“We’re entering the Toris system.”
Our current destination was my gateway to temporary financial security. I sat up from the hard, low-lying bunk, stood, and walked to the bridge. It was a short distance, nonetheless painful, as metallic floor panels clanked under my feet louder than normal.
As I walked onto my bridge, the hyper-speed engines disengaged and slowly wound down. I held onto my captain’s chair to steady myself until the ship reached a constant velocity. I sat down in my chair, reached into the side pocket, and pulled out the same bottle of Vladirian liquor that put me down.
“How are we doing on time?”
“Far ahead of schedule,” responded Jeanie.
The second of my four cargo hatches held a cargo container full of blue organic crystals. When I picked it up, the seller told me to take it to Toris, the outer planet in the system of the same name. I didn’t know why, but I’d double my pay if I made it to Toris fast enough ahead of schedule. They didn’t have to tell me twice.
“Let me know when we reach the station.”
I took a small taste of the light yellow liquid in the bottle. The storekeeper peddling the stuff at my last stop had filled me in with the full story behind the drink. A small animal called a Roshtu secreted the liquid as a defensive measure when attacked. The sweet smell and taste caused the attacking predator to lap it up and become intoxicated, while the Roshtu escaped unharmed. I took another drink, this one longer.
“So, Jeanie, what would you like me to buy you once I get paid?”
“I am currently running at peak performance, and have no requirements.”
I smiled and leaned back in my chair. I usually found scuttled and abandoned cargo, then sold it for profit. Scavenging was a less aggressive form of piracy, and usually safer, since you didn’t have to carry out threats of violence. Unfortunately, such cargo tended to be scarce, and had been more so lately. So, when I’d stumbled into an opportunity to carry cargo, I jumped at the chance. An extra bonus for speedy delivery didn’t hurt matters.
I took another sip of the Vladirian liquor and put it away. There needed to be something left to celebrate my fortune.
“ETA?”
Jeanie ignored my question. “I’m picking up a ship on medium range sensors.”
The hair on the back of my neck rose. “Show me.”
My view screen lit up along the front wall of my bridge. A couple kilpars in length, the lines of the ship were smooth, tapering from the nose to a constant, rectangular cross-section around the first quarter of the hull. Near the back of the ship, I could see bell-shaped nozzles behind four embedded engines, darkened against the starfield. I recognized the configuration, but wanted some confirmation.
“Rulusian freighter?”
She gave the designation. “Green Three.”
I took another look at the sensor screen over my left armrest. “I don’t see any other ships out there.”
“There are none in the vicinity.”
A Rulusian freighter in an alien system, all by itself, made no sense. They often stuck together in vast convoys, to give themselves a better defensive position through sheer numbers.
“Status of the freighter?”
“Engines and main power are down, backup systems are in effect. No shields, no weapons charged.” She paused a moment. “No life signs.”
With the condition of the ship and no crew, I wondered what happened. Then a smile crossed my lips. I was a scavenger pirate at heart and wasn’t about to let a prime opportunity escape.
“Any cargo in the bays?”
Jeanie was hesitant. “Yes.”
“Well,” I chuckled, “what is it?”
“I’m picking up signs of cargo without accompanying records in the transport manifest.”
Contraband.
My smile grew. Rulusians were usually law-abiding. I had no idea why one of their ships would be hauling illegal cargo, but with three open bays on my ship and plenty of time to spare, there was only one thing on my mind.
Jeanie was too smart for her own good. “The logic of this situation does not compute.”
“It’s nice you worry about me, but I’ll be fine.” I nearly laughed at the thought of a machine with feelings.
She remained silent.
“Access their computer, and drop their cargo.”
“Unable to comply.”
If she wasn’t programmed to obey, I would have been upset. There had to be something wrong.
“Explain.”
“The on-board systems were placed under a command-level lockout by the Captain of the vessel. Only the Captain can remove it.”
I clasped my hands behind my head and sighed as Green Three grew larger in the view screen. Finding the freighter made me think my luck was turning for the better. Now, the situation was tougher than it first seemed. My thoughts drifted to the state of the ship.
“Looks like they didn’t want anyone else gaining control. Maybe they abandoned her.”
“That theory appears plausible.”
I ran my hands through my dark brown, wavy locks, then massaged the tension out of the back of my neck. “I guess I’ll just have to go over and drop it manually. Move us to the starboard docking port.”
******
(Note, if you post the blurb and the excerpt in the same spot, it will only be worth 5 points, not 6)
To receive 1 "Promotion Point": Simply give a shout-out for Heroes Die Young, including a reason why people should read it, along with a link to AstonWest.com, my book's page on Amazon, and my book's page on Fictionwise.
Link to AstonWest.com: http://astonwest.com
Link to my book on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Heroes-Die-Young-T-Hunter/dp/1897445784/
Link to my book on Fictionwise: http://www.fictionwise.com/eBooks/eBook74975.htm
Now, just a few ground rules...
-Any entry must stay up for a minimum of 30 days. Any entry that gets deleted or removed before that time will obviously not count.
-Send me an e-mail (to engrboy at msndotcom, with a subject of "Promotion Points Entry" to avoid being deleted as spam) containing a link to where your entry is so I can keep your tally accurate. I'll respond to your e-mail with your current "Promotion Point" total, so if you don't see something back in a few days, be sure to let me know.
-No cheating...anyone found sabotaging others will be disqualified (I don't imagine that will be a problem, but one never knows how vicious people will get with free stuff involved).
Now, most of all, have fun and help spread the word of Heroes Die Young!
26 May 2009
Weekly Goals - May 26, 2009
Sans internet access, things were hopping this week. It doesn't bode well for my future time spent on the internet, though.
Also, be sure to check back early next week for a special offer I'll be putting out for some special folks.
Results for this week:
1. Approximately 9000 words edited on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2000 words on The Cure
2. Submit 1 story from list of rejections
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Profit and Loss" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (rejected, need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Also, be sure to check back early next week for a special offer I'll be putting out for some special folks.
Results for this week:
1. Approximately 9000 words edited on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2000 words on The Cure
2. Submit 1 story from list of rejections
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since May 18)
"Collateral" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Profit and Loss" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (rejected, need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
20 May 2009
Weekly Goals - May 19, 2009
Unfortunately, with four rejections in this past week, it's been a little tough to get motivated. Hoping for better results this coming week...
Results for this week:
1. Approximately 1500 words edited.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2000 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (rejected, re-submitted May 18)
"Collateral" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Profit and Loss" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (rejected, need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Approximately 1500 words edited.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2000 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (rejected, re-submitted May 18)
"Collateral" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Profit and Loss" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (rejected, need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
12 May 2009
Weekly Goals - May 12, 2009
Results for this week:
1. Approximately 1700 words edited.
2. Completed all publisher edits for Friends in Deed.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since April 8)
"Collateral" (re-submitted May 7)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (since May 3)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
1. Approximately 1700 words edited.
2. Completed all publisher edits for Friends in Deed.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since April 8)
"Collateral" (re-submitted May 7)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (since May 3)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
09 May 2009
Guest Blogging Today!
I'll be guest-blogging over at The Writers Vineyard and You Gotta Read today! I'll also be giving away a free print copy of Heroes Die Young to one lucky commenter on each blog, so be sure to stop by both and say hi!
05 May 2009
Weekly Goals - May 5, 2009
Went a little overboard on the publisher edits this week, but is that really a bad thing?
Results for this week:
1. Not started.
2. Went through one full edit of Friends in Deed.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
2. Complete all publisher edits for Friends in Deed
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since April 8)
"Collateral" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (re-submitted May 3)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Not started.
2. Went through one full edit of Friends in Deed.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
2. Complete all publisher edits for Friends in Deed
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since April 8)
"Collateral" (rejected, need to re-submit)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (re-submitted May 3)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
28 April 2009
Weekly Goals - April 28, 2009
A little better this week...and now it's time for publisher edits to start
Results for this week:
1. Edited right around 3000 words on The Cure.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
2. Edit 5000 words on Friends in Deed
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since April 8)
"Collateral" (submitted April 15)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (rejected, need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Edited right around 3000 words on The Cure.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
2. Edit 5000 words on Friends in Deed
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since April 8)
"Collateral" (submitted April 15)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (rejected, need to re-submit)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
Heroes Die Young Sale
For those who haven't yet picked up a copy of Heroes Die Young, and are trying to figure out what all of the fuss is about (as it picked up Champagne Books' Best-Selling Novel of 2008 Award), Fictionwise is offering copies at 50% off. Be sure to pick one up!
25 April 2009
Conestoga, Day 2
Another good day, though it didn't seem like it was going to be for about the first half of the day (which were dismal numbers). Still lots of interest, though. I also had the misfortune of not being smart enough to know that my giveaways (bookmarks and sampler CDs) were going to be much like bags of mulch for our yard's landscaping. No matter how many you think you'll need, you'll always need more.
Fortunately, had some late afternoon/evening sales which was a pleasant end to the day. Unfortunately, I'm completely out of bookmarks, and down to a handful of sampler CDs. Tomorrow is a short day, though, so I have that going for me.
Hopefully everything will come together, and those who have expressed interest and haven't yet purchased will come by before the end of the convention. But, all in all, it's been a great time. Spreading the word is what most of this is all about...because if it was for the financial gain, I wouldn't have bothered starting attending conventions.
Fortunately, had some late afternoon/evening sales which was a pleasant end to the day. Unfortunately, I'm completely out of bookmarks, and down to a handful of sampler CDs. Tomorrow is a short day, though, so I have that going for me.
Hopefully everything will come together, and those who have expressed interest and haven't yet purchased will come by before the end of the convention. But, all in all, it's been a great time. Spreading the word is what most of this is all about...because if it was for the financial gain, I wouldn't have bothered starting attending conventions.
Conestoga, Day 1
Well, we're down here in Tulsa for Conestoga 13. So far, so good. Sales have been brisk, especially for the normally slow Friday crowd. Lots of interest in Heroes Die Young, and with my recent signing of a contract for Friends in Deed, I have something for all of my would-be fans to look forward to after reading the first book. This convention looks to be more literary-focused than others, even though the room is a bit smaller than our last con. Books, books, everywhere!
A good time has been had by all...looking forward to day 2.
A good time has been had by all...looking forward to day 2.
21 April 2009
Weekly Goals - April 21, 2009
Finally building up a little momentum, just in time for a visit to a convention. Keeping things about the same, goal-wise, with the limited time this week.
Results for this week:
1. Edited right around 2500 words on The Cure.
2. Submitted "Collateral"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since April 8)
"Collateral" (submitted April 15)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (since April 1)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Edited right around 2500 words on The Cure.
2. Submitted "Collateral"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (since April 8)
"Collateral" (submitted April 15)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (since April 1)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
15 April 2009
Weekly Goals - April 14, 2009
On a roll on the submissions, so hopefully things are getting back to normal...
Results for this week:
1. Not started.
2. Edited, not yet submitted.
3. Submitted "Some Assembly Required"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
2. Submit "Collateral"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (submitted April 8)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Redemption" (ACCEPTED April 10)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (April 1)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Not started.
2. Edited, not yet submitted.
3. Submitted "Some Assembly Required"
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
2. Submit "Collateral"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Some Assembly Required" (submitted April 8)
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Redemption" (ACCEPTED April 10)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (April 1)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
12 April 2009
Another Short Story Acceptance!
I usually wait until a story actually comes out before posting notices like this, but this one has both been a long time coming, as well as being the first story accepted by a magazine other than Ray Gun Revival. Staffs and Starships has notified me that my story "Redemption" will be published in their fourth issue later this year.
The journey with this particular story started back in February of 2008 when I started submitting it around. Eventually, it made its way to Staffs and Starships in June of that same year. Those who follow some of my blogs will remember me discussing the fact that I'd mistakenly missed the part of their guidelines in which they'd stated they will not accept space opera. When I notified them of this error on my part, they mentioned that they really enjoyed the story and it was still going through their process. Long story short, the notice of acceptance finally came through this weekend.
So, I'm ecstatic as you can imagine. Not to take anything away from Ray Gun Revival (which I love), but there was always that nagging feeling in the back of my head which told me my short story writing was good enough to make it there, but nowhere else. This, finally, gives me some self-vindication.
I'll be sure to let everyone know when the issue is available...now, off to celebrate!
The journey with this particular story started back in February of 2008 when I started submitting it around. Eventually, it made its way to Staffs and Starships in June of that same year. Those who follow some of my blogs will remember me discussing the fact that I'd mistakenly missed the part of their guidelines in which they'd stated they will not accept space opera. When I notified them of this error on my part, they mentioned that they really enjoyed the story and it was still going through their process. Long story short, the notice of acceptance finally came through this weekend.
So, I'm ecstatic as you can imagine. Not to take anything away from Ray Gun Revival (which I love), but there was always that nagging feeling in the back of my head which told me my short story writing was good enough to make it there, but nowhere else. This, finally, gives me some self-vindication.
I'll be sure to let everyone know when the issue is available...now, off to celebrate!
07 April 2009
Weekly Goals - April 7, 2009
Doing a little better in April than I was in March, but still trying to gain some momentum.
Results for this week:
1. Not started.
2. Edited, not yet submitted.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
2. Edit and submit "Collateral"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Redemption" (since June 14, 2008)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (rejected, re-submitted April 1)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Not started.
2. Edited, not yet submitted.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
2. Edit and submit "Collateral"
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Redemption" (since June 14, 2008)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (rejected, re-submitted April 1)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
04 April 2009
The End to a Fabulous Week!
Nothing better, after receiving the best-selling novel of 2008 award, than to discover a glowing review for my book...
My favorite line: "I couldn’t put it down - and I was drawn in from the first page on."
I really am all smiles at this point... :-)
My favorite line: "I couldn’t put it down - and I was drawn in from the first page on."
I really am all smiles at this point... :-)
02 April 2009
Heroes Die Young - Best-selling book of 2008
Just got done with the Champagne Books awards ceremonies, and came out with my own special award. Heroes Die Young picked up Best-Selling Novel of 2008!
Thanks to everyone who made this award possible!
And for those who haven't yet picked up a copy, the Champagne Bookstore currently has copies on sale (for a discounted price)!
01 April 2009
Weekly Goals - March 31, 2009
March has not been kind to me. This week is unfortunately no different.
Results for this week:
1. Right around 2500 words edited on The Cure
2. Partially edited, not submitted.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
2. Edit and submit "Some Assembly Required" (new title in process)
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Redemption" (since June 14)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (since January 31)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Right around 2500 words edited on The Cure
2. Partially edited, not submitted.
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 2500 words on The Cure
2. Edit and submit "Some Assembly Required" (new title in process)
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Redemption" (since June 14)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (since January 31)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
24 March 2009
Weekly Goals - March 24, 2009
Unfortunately, still struggling towards reaching my editing goals.
Results for this week:
1. Right around 2500 words edited on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 5000 words on The Cure
2. Edit and submit "Some Assembly Required" (new title in process)
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Redemption" (since June 14)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (since January 31)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Right around 2500 words edited on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 5000 words on The Cure
2. Edit and submit "Some Assembly Required" (new title in process)
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Redemption" (since June 14)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (since January 31)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
18 March 2009
Weekly Goals - March 17, 2009
Still ugly...and realized that I fouled up last week's goal-setting. No, I really didn't set a goal of not editing a thing on The Cure. Oops!
Results for this week:
1. Right around 2500 words edited on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 5000 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Redemption" (since June 14)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (since January 31)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Results for this week:
1. Right around 2500 words edited on The Cure
And now the goals for this coming week:
1. Edit 5000 words on The Cure
Submission status for the week:
Short stories:
"Entrapment" (since December 24)
"Redemption" (since June 14)
"Profit and Loss" (since February 10)
"Trust" (since February 14)
"Deadly Decisions" (since January 31)
Aston West
novels
short stories
writing goals
Labels: Aston West, novels, short stories, writing, writing goals
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