23.September.2007.Sun
With just five days left until the official release of Heroes Often Fail, it is showing as now available on Amazon.com. The cover art isn’t attached yet, but I’m sure it will be shortly. So for those of you who prefer to get your book that way, you may now order away!
21.September.2007.Fri
12.September.2007.Wed
My publisher, Aisling, advised me that Heroes Often Fail will be released simultaneously in both hardcover and paperback.
This will be Aisling’s first hardcover release.
Mine, too.
The hardcover will retail for $24.95. The trade paperback version will be $13.95.
Countdown to release? Sixteen days.
This will be Aisling’s first hardcover release.
Mine, too.
The hardcover will retail for $24.95. The trade paperback version will be $13.95.
Countdown to release? Sixteen days.
25.June.2007.Mon
The publishing business can be a stable one, but sometimes it can also be a volatile one. But you know what they say...every change represents an opportunity.
Bo Savino, my editor at Koboca, has elected to part ways with that publisher. She and her partner have founded a new publishing company called AISLING (for an interesting journey, search out the meaning of that word!).
I’ve gone with Bo, so Heroes Often Fail and the continuing novels in the River City series will be published by AISLING. This change does not affect the September release date of this novel.
AISLING will also be publishing the revenge anthology, Oh, Enemy Mine, which I have submitted work to for consideration. I usually don’t talk about what I’ve submitted where until it is actually accepted, but I’d recommend you check out this anthology (likely due out in October) whether I’m part of it or not...but especially if I am.
Anyway, I thought I’d pass this little tidbit along. For most of you, the only difference you’ll see is the name on the spine next to mine. The book will be out in September and that’s the important part.
Stay tuned.
Bo Savino, my editor at Koboca, has elected to part ways with that publisher. She and her partner have founded a new publishing company called AISLING (for an interesting journey, search out the meaning of that word!).
I’ve gone with Bo, so Heroes Often Fail and the continuing novels in the River City series will be published by AISLING. This change does not affect the September release date of this novel.
AISLING will also be publishing the revenge anthology, Oh, Enemy Mine, which I have submitted work to for consideration. I usually don’t talk about what I’ve submitted where until it is actually accepted, but I’d recommend you check out this anthology (likely due out in October) whether I’m part of it or not...but especially if I am.
Anyway, I thought I’d pass this little tidbit along. For most of you, the only difference you’ll see is the name on the spine next to mine. The book will be out in September and that’s the important part.
Stay tuned.
25.April.2007.Wed
The Red Coyote Press anthology Map of Murder has won the short story fiction category in the National Indie Excellence 2007 Book Awards. The link is HERE.
Congratulations to Susan Budavari and Suzanne Flaig, who edited Map of Murder.
I am proud to note that my story, “In the Shadow of El Paso” is included in this...well, in this Award-winning anthology!
Congratulations to Susan Budavari and Suzanne Flaig, who edited Map of Murder.
I am proud to note that my story, “In the Shadow of El Paso” is included in this...well, in this Award-winning anthology!
30.March.2007.Fri
I’ve been invited to be in a new anthology coming out later this year.
The anthology will be The Best of Thuglit, Volume One (tentative title). It will contain the best stories that appeared in the eZine Thuglit in 2006. My story, "Rescuing Isaac" will be included.
The release date isn’t set yet, but I would imagine sometime in 2007.
Why should you care? Well, for one, you get to read “Rescuing Isaac” between the covers of a book. Not enough, you say? You can go read it for free in the archives on the site, you say? True, true...but this anthology will also feature a number of new, previously unpublished stories. The authors of the new stories haven’t been announced yet, but my guess is that you’ll recognize the names if you know anything about crime fiction...particularly the brand that Thuglit has been publishing.
I’m truly honored to be included in this book and I’m looking forward to the release.
You can keep up with the developments of this and other news here on my blog. For more information on all of the anthologies that I’ve been in, you can go here.
The anthology will be The Best of Thuglit, Volume One (tentative title). It will contain the best stories that appeared in the eZine Thuglit in 2006. My story, "Rescuing Isaac" will be included.
The release date isn’t set yet, but I would imagine sometime in 2007.
Why should you care? Well, for one, you get to read “Rescuing Isaac” between the covers of a book. Not enough, you say? You can go read it for free in the archives on the site, you say? True, true...but this anthology will also feature a number of new, previously unpublished stories. The authors of the new stories haven’t been announced yet, but my guess is that you’ll recognize the names if you know anything about crime fiction...particularly the brand that Thuglit has been publishing.
I’m truly honored to be included in this book and I’m looking forward to the release.
You can keep up with the developments of this and other news here on my blog. For more information on all of the anthologies that I’ve been in, you can go here.
26.February.2007.Mon
The anothology Never Safe is now available from Seven Sisters Press. It contains my story, “Running into Darkness.”
You can get the book through Amazon or any bookseller.
You can get the book through Amazon or any bookseller.
Map of Murder is now available. You may order it directly from Red Coyote Press, from Amazon or any other retail outlet.
My story, “In the Shadow of El Paso” is featured in this anthology.
My story, “In the Shadow of El Paso” is featured in this anthology.
19.January.2007.Fri
Well, folks, bad news. The anthology, My Little Book of the Dead is...well, dead. At least for me.
I make it a policy not to air out business issues in public, so let me give you my boilerplate description:
“There were complications in the publication process that led me to decide to remove my piece(s) from this project.”
“No Worse Curse” and “Forever Love” (a poem) are now free agents again. I’ll begin submitting them elswhere immediately.
Two other authors also pulled their work. By my math, this accounts for six of the eleven pieces. The editor may choose to go forward with the project, replacing the six that were pulled with six new pieces. If so, I wish them good luck.
For anyone else, the object lesson here is, I suppose, that a book is never published until you’re holding it in your hands. And that you should never want to be published so bad that you don’t remember to make all of your decisions from a business standpoint.
Meanwhile...Map of Murder will be released on February 15th!
I make it a policy not to air out business issues in public, so let me give you my boilerplate description:
“There were complications in the publication process that led me to decide to remove my piece(s) from this project.”
“No Worse Curse” and “Forever Love” (a poem) are now free agents again. I’ll begin submitting them elswhere immediately.
Two other authors also pulled their work. By my math, this accounts for six of the eleven pieces. The editor may choose to go forward with the project, replacing the six that were pulled with six new pieces. If so, I wish them good luck.
For anyone else, the object lesson here is, I suppose, that a book is never published until you’re holding it in your hands. And that you should never want to be published so bad that you don’t remember to make all of your decisions from a business standpoint.
Meanwhile...Map of Murder will be released on February 15th!
08.January.2007.Mon
The most recent issue of Mysterical-E features a piece on my by Christine Verstraete. She focuses on the By the Chimney with Care in this story-style interview. It’s well done.
Also, a review of Under A Raging Moon appears in this issue, reviewed by Vero G. Caravette. The review is a favorable one.
You can check both of these out and a round of great mystery stories as well right here!
Also, a review of Under A Raging Moon appears in this issue, reviewed by Vero G. Caravette. The review is a favorable one.
You can check both of these out and a round of great mystery stories as well right here!
10.December.2006.Sun
I received news today that the charity Christmas anthology, By the Chimney with Care, has raised $1325 for Toys for Tots thus far. The publisher, Tony Burton, will be presenting that check to the USMC representative tomorrow.
My story, “Three Days of Christmas,” appears in the anthology.
All profits for this anthology will continue to go to Toys for Tots. If you’d like a copy, you can email me, order it from any bookstore (brick and mortar or online) and go to the publisher’s website: Wolfmont Publishing.
My personal thanks to everyone who has purchased this anthology!
My story, “Three Days of Christmas,” appears in the anthology.
All profits for this anthology will continue to go to Toys for Tots. If you’d like a copy, you can email me, order it from any bookstore (brick and mortar or online) and go to the publisher’s website: Wolfmont Publishing.
My personal thanks to everyone who has purchased this anthology!
28.November.2006.Tue
Better you never heard that from a writer before!
Seriously, though, folks...don’t buy My Little Book of the Dead...at least not yet.
Why?
Well, it is available on Lulu.com, which is the printer that the editor of the anthology is going through. It is, in fact, available right now. I know, because I ordered a copy. However, it appears that this is not the final draft of the book. Why it is available if it isn’t the final draft, I don’t know and haven’t got any answers—not from Lulu.com or the editor. I do know that I spent $15 on a book that is a rough draft. That makes me mad.
Now imagine how you would feel, dear reader.
So, I repeat, do not buy this book. I will make an announcement when the real release occurs, whenever that is.
In the meantime, some good news: Map of Murder is set for a February 2007 release and Never Safe is probably on about the same timeline. Map of Murder features my story, “In the Shadow of El Paso,” while Never Safe has “Running into Darkness” in it. Those of you who have read “The Meat-cutter’s Wife” and “If Only” will see a very strong connection to "Running into Darkness."
Seriously, though, folks...don’t buy My Little Book of the Dead...at least not yet.
Why?
Well, it is available on Lulu.com, which is the printer that the editor of the anthology is going through. It is, in fact, available right now. I know, because I ordered a copy. However, it appears that this is not the final draft of the book. Why it is available if it isn’t the final draft, I don’t know and haven’t got any answers—not from Lulu.com or the editor. I do know that I spent $15 on a book that is a rough draft. That makes me mad.
Now imagine how you would feel, dear reader.
So, I repeat, do not buy this book. I will make an announcement when the real release occurs, whenever that is.
In the meantime, some good news: Map of Murder is set for a February 2007 release and Never Safe is probably on about the same timeline. Map of Murder features my story, “In the Shadow of El Paso,” while Never Safe has “Running into Darkness” in it. Those of you who have read “The Meat-cutter’s Wife” and “If Only” will see a very strong connection to "Running into Darkness."
23.October.2006.Mon
The cover design for Map of Murder is now up at Red Coyote Press Here’s what it looks like:
Cool, huh? My story, In the Shadow of El Paso appears in this anthology, which should be out pretty soon!
Cool, huh? My story, In the Shadow of El Paso appears in this anthology, which should be out pretty soon!
17.October.2006.Tue
I have signed a contract with Koboca Publishing for Heroes Often Fail, the next book in the River City series.
While the contract is for a single book, the publisher has stated unequivocally that she wants to publish the entire River City series.
The book is slated for a September 2007 release.
If anyone is wondering, “Why a different publisher? I thought Wolfmont published Under A Raging Moon,” the answer is simple. You’re right. Wolfmont did publish (and will continue to publish for the time being) Moon.
Why a different publisher? Quite simply, Wolfmont is moving in a different direction with the books that they intend to publish and River City material did not fit into that theme. When that became apparent, both the publisher and I discussed it. This resulted in a mutual decision to part ways on this project.
I’m grateful to Wolfmont Publishing for publishing Moon. And I look forward to seeing the series continue under the Koboca banner.
What does this mean to you, the reader? Not a whole lot, I’m sure. The important point for the reader is this: Heroes will be out in September 2007.
While the contract is for a single book, the publisher has stated unequivocally that she wants to publish the entire River City series.
The book is slated for a September 2007 release.
If anyone is wondering, “Why a different publisher? I thought Wolfmont published Under A Raging Moon,” the answer is simple. You’re right. Wolfmont did publish (and will continue to publish for the time being) Moon.
Why a different publisher? Quite simply, Wolfmont is moving in a different direction with the books that they intend to publish and River City material did not fit into that theme. When that became apparent, both the publisher and I discussed it. This resulted in a mutual decision to part ways on this project.
I’m grateful to Wolfmont Publishing for publishing Moon. And I look forward to seeing the series continue under the Koboca banner.
What does this mean to you, the reader? Not a whole lot, I’m sure. The important point for the reader is this: Heroes will be out in September 2007.
10.October.2006.Tue
The short story anthology The EX Factor will be out this Friday! Three of my stories are included: “Helping Out,” "Core Issue" and “Take a Hand.” The last one will be the final story in the anthology, which is somewhat of a place of honor in a collection.
In support of this book, Colin Conway and I will be at the following locations:
Oct 13, 2006 4 PM - 7 PM
Hastings Bookstore, North Division, Spokane
Oct 14, 2006 4 PM - 7 PM
Hastings Bookstore, Valley, Spokane
Oct 21, 2006 1 PM - 4 PM
Hastings Bookstore, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Oct 28, 2006 1 PM - 4 PM
Hastings Bookstore, Shadle, Spokane
Come out and see us and get your double signed copy!
In support of this book, Colin Conway and I will be at the following locations:
Oct 13, 2006 4 PM - 7 PM
Hastings Bookstore, North Division, Spokane
Oct 14, 2006 4 PM - 7 PM
Hastings Bookstore, Valley, Spokane
Oct 21, 2006 1 PM - 4 PM
Hastings Bookstore, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Oct 28, 2006 1 PM - 4 PM
Hastings Bookstore, Shadle, Spokane
Come out and see us and get your double signed copy!
02.October.2006.Mon
The charity holiday anthology, By the Chimney with Care, which includes my story “Three Days of Christmas,” is now available.
“Three Days of Christmas” features Detective Katie McLeod at Christmas 2005 as she investigates a burglar who steals Christmas presents.
You can order this anthology directly from Wolfmont Publishing here, or if you want a signed copy, you can email me directly at frankzafiro@msn.com . The cost is $10.95 (plus $2.50 shipping, if applicable). All publisher profits are donated to Toys For Tots.
“Three Days of Christmas” features Detective Katie McLeod at Christmas 2005 as she investigates a burglar who steals Christmas presents.
You can order this anthology directly from Wolfmont Publishing here, or if you want a signed copy, you can email me directly at frankzafiro@msn.com . The cost is $10.95 (plus $2.50 shipping, if applicable). All publisher profits are donated to Toys For Tots.
06.September.2006.Wed
This is going to be a busy season for me as the year ends. I am slated to have seven stories in five different anthologies, all of which should be out by the end of 2006.
The anthologies are varied in topic and style, so there’s probably something for everybody. The descriptions are below. The important thing is that YOU CAN PRE-ORDER NOW for NO MONEY DOWN. Nope, not a dime. Just your good word.
Why pre-order? Well, in addition to ensuring that you get a signed copy, I will be giving away prizes for each of the anthologies. The prize winners will be selected from the pre-orders lists. This will include a free copy of the anthology, as long as enough people pre-order (it doesn’t take many, just enough!).
You can pre-order by emailing me directly here or you can go to my anthology page here and click on the “YES, Reserve me a copy” line.
The Ex-Factor
Bad exes everywhere...beware! An Anthology to curl the toes & warm the bitter heart.
This anthology contains stories about revenge on bad ex's–spouses, lovers, you name it. Included so far are my stories:
Helping Out, which is about how lending a hand can take you down a twisting path,
Take A Hand, which is about a retired cop helping out his estranged son, and
Core Issue, which is about how a guy reacts to an emotionally wreck of a woman getting herself together with the help of a psychologist...
Available October, 2006!
Map of Murder
Tales of Mystery and Suspense involving murder, heavily featuring the location of events. My contribution is the story:
In The Shadow of El Paso
In The Shadow of El Paso was inspired by the Marty Robbins song and a Bruce Springsteen song called “The Line.” The story takes place in the fictional city of La Sombra, which is on the outskirts of El Paso.
Available Fall 2006!
By The Chimney With Care
An Anthology about Crime and Christmas.
This anthology has a Christmas and Crime theme. It is for a good charity–the net profits will all be donated to the USMC’s Toys for Tots. It includes my story:
Three Days of Christmas
Three Days of Christmas is about Katie McLeod working a Christmas burglar case.
Available October 2006!
My Little Book of the Dead
An Anthology about mummies, curses and anything goes!
This anthology has a loose theme–anything to do with mummies. Horror, comedy, satire, mystery, whatever. It includes my story:
No Worse Curse
No Worse Curse is what you get when you cross a Yank scholar, an IRA soldier and an Egyptian mummy in an English manor in Northern Ireland...
Available Halloween 2006!
Never Safe
An Anthology that will force you check the lock on your door.
These stories focus on fear and anxiety. It includes my story:
Running Into Darkness
Running Into Darkness explores one of the most dangerous events in police work–the foot pursuit. It is also the flip side of the coin to my story The Meat-cutter’s Wife
Available late 2006!
Did I mention that you can now PRE-ORDER ALL TITLES?
Oh, yeah. I did.
The anthologies are varied in topic and style, so there’s probably something for everybody. The descriptions are below. The important thing is that YOU CAN PRE-ORDER NOW for NO MONEY DOWN. Nope, not a dime. Just your good word.
Why pre-order? Well, in addition to ensuring that you get a signed copy, I will be giving away prizes for each of the anthologies. The prize winners will be selected from the pre-orders lists. This will include a free copy of the anthology, as long as enough people pre-order (it doesn’t take many, just enough!).
You can pre-order by emailing me directly here or you can go to my anthology page here and click on the “YES, Reserve me a copy” line.
The Ex-Factor
Bad exes everywhere...beware! An Anthology to curl the toes & warm the bitter heart.
This anthology contains stories about revenge on bad ex's–spouses, lovers, you name it. Included so far are my stories:
Helping Out, which is about how lending a hand can take you down a twisting path,
Take A Hand, which is about a retired cop helping out his estranged son, and
Core Issue, which is about how a guy reacts to an emotionally wreck of a woman getting herself together with the help of a psychologist...
Available October, 2006!
Map of Murder
Tales of Mystery and Suspense involving murder, heavily featuring the location of events. My contribution is the story:
In The Shadow of El Paso
In The Shadow of El Paso was inspired by the Marty Robbins song and a Bruce Springsteen song called “The Line.” The story takes place in the fictional city of La Sombra, which is on the outskirts of El Paso.
Available Fall 2006!
By The Chimney With Care
An Anthology about Crime and Christmas.
This anthology has a Christmas and Crime theme. It is for a good charity–the net profits will all be donated to the USMC’s Toys for Tots. It includes my story:
Three Days of Christmas
Three Days of Christmas is about Katie McLeod working a Christmas burglar case.
Available October 2006!
My Little Book of the Dead
An Anthology about mummies, curses and anything goes!
This anthology has a loose theme–anything to do with mummies. Horror, comedy, satire, mystery, whatever. It includes my story:
No Worse Curse
No Worse Curse is what you get when you cross a Yank scholar, an IRA soldier and an Egyptian mummy in an English manor in Northern Ireland...
Available Halloween 2006!
Never Safe
An Anthology that will force you check the lock on your door.
These stories focus on fear and anxiety. It includes my story:
Running Into Darkness
Running Into Darkness explores one of the most dangerous events in police work–the foot pursuit. It is also the flip side of the coin to my story The Meat-cutter’s Wife
Available late 2006!
Did I mention that you can now PRE-ORDER ALL TITLES?
Oh, yeah. I did.
04.June.2006.Sun
I’ve set up the first round of appearances in support of Under A Raging Moon. These are all in Spokane, Washington. If you’re nearby, please stop in and say hello.
June 16, 2006 4:30 - 7:30
Valley Hastings @ 15312 E. Sprague
June 17, 2006 11 AM - 3 PM
Northside Hastings @ 7706 N. Division
June 23, 2006 11 AM - 2 PM
Extreme Caffeine @ 2706 N. Monroe
June 24, 2006 1 PM - 4 PM
Shadle Hastings @ 1704 W. Wellesley
July 8, 2006 4 PM - 7 PM
South Hill Hastings @ 2515 E. 29th
And more to come!
June 16, 2006 4:30 - 7:30
Valley Hastings @ 15312 E. Sprague
June 17, 2006 11 AM - 3 PM
Northside Hastings @ 7706 N. Division
June 23, 2006 11 AM - 2 PM
Extreme Caffeine @ 2706 N. Monroe
June 24, 2006 1 PM - 4 PM
Shadle Hastings @ 1704 W. Wellesley
July 8, 2006 4 PM - 7 PM
South Hill Hastings @ 2515 E. 29th
And more to come!
02.June.2006.Fri
My publisher contacted me TODAY and let me know that Under A Raging Moon has shipped. My copies should be here soon.
No matter when they arrive, I’ll still honor any pre-orders up to June 14th, when I’ll have the drawing for a free copy. There will also be either a second copy given away or a copy of Seven By Seven, and a Crime And Suspense T-shirt, for sure.
Email me if you haven’t reserved your copy yet and you want to. Pre-ordering costs nothing and in addition to being part of the drawing, shipping on your pre-ordered copy is FREE!
No matter when they arrive, I’ll still honor any pre-orders up to June 14th, when I’ll have the drawing for a free copy. There will also be either a second copy given away or a copy of Seven By Seven, and a Crime And Suspense T-shirt, for sure.
Email me if you haven’t reserved your copy yet and you want to. Pre-ordering costs nothing and in addition to being part of the drawing, shipping on your pre-ordered copy is FREE!
24.May.2006.Wed
For those of you who prefer to read ebooks instead of traditional ones, Under A Raging Moon has been released by ePress-Online.
Margaret Carr did a wonderful job on the ebook cover:
If you’re interested in the ebook version, it is available NOW for $5.00 from ePress-Online! Available in Microsoft Reader, MobiPocket Reader, Rocket Reader and eBookwise Reader formats.
The print version will be available in three weeks (June 15th)! You can pre-order now and be eligible to win a free copy. Also, shipping for pre-orders is FREE.
Margaret Carr did a wonderful job on the ebook cover:
If you’re interested in the ebook version, it is available NOW for $5.00 from ePress-Online! Available in Microsoft Reader, MobiPocket Reader, Rocket Reader and eBookwise Reader formats.
The print version will be available in three weeks (June 15th)! You can pre-order now and be eligible to win a free copy. Also, shipping for pre-orders is FREE.
18.May.2006.Thu
Bookcatcher is carrying the official press release for Under A Raging Moon RIGHT HERE!
The article/release has a cool title, I thought.
The article/release has a cool title, I thought.
06.May.2006.Sat
The editor at Koboca Publishing informed me that the projected release date for the anthology The EX-Factor is FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13TH, 2006.
There’s something fitting about that...
There’s something fitting about that...
06.April.2006.Thu
Seven By Seven is less than two weeks away from release!
You can still pre-order, no money down, and have a chance to win a free copy. For more information, go HERE.
This publication will represent the first time my work has been in book form, and I’m proud to be surrounded by six other writers from all over the USA. Editor Tony Burton put together a great cast and he did a fantastic job of layout with the book.
You can still pre-order, no money down, and have a chance to win a free copy. For more information, go HERE.
This publication will represent the first time my work has been in book form, and I’m proud to be surrounded by six other writers from all over the USA. Editor Tony Burton put together a great cast and he did a fantastic job of layout with the book.
09.March.2006.Thu
I am now taking pre-orders for both Seven By Seven and Under A Raging Moon.
One pre-order will be randomly selected to receive their copy FREE!
Another will be randomly selected for a FREE prize (most likely a limited edition Seven By Seven T-shirt!)
Once the book is released, there will be similar FREE giveaways!
You may reserve a copy of either or both FOR NO MONEY DOWN.
Simply email me by clicking HERE and let me know which book you want (or both!). I’ll let you know when they’re available and what the price is.
I will gladly sign any copies (and will do so with big, dopey grin on my face).
If the book needs to be mailed to you, I will ship them for free for anyone who pre-orders.
Seven By Seven is due out April 15 and is priced at $13.95. If you order from me, you get a discount—> $11.95 (unless you win the free copy)!
Under A Raging Moon is projected for a “June-ish” release date the price has not yet been set.
Order now...beat the rush! [grin].
One pre-order will be randomly selected to receive their copy FREE!
Another will be randomly selected for a FREE prize (most likely a limited edition Seven By Seven T-shirt!)
Once the book is released, there will be similar FREE giveaways!
You may reserve a copy of either or both FOR NO MONEY DOWN.
Simply email me by clicking HERE and let me know which book you want (or both!). I’ll let you know when they’re available and what the price is.
I will gladly sign any copies (and will do so with big, dopey grin on my face).
If the book needs to be mailed to you, I will ship them for free for anyone who pre-orders.
Seven By Seven is due out April 15 and is priced at $13.95. If you order from me, you get a discount—> $11.95 (unless you win the free copy)!
Under A Raging Moon is projected for a “June-ish” release date the price has not yet been set.
Order now...beat the rush! [grin].
27.February.2006.Mon
I just shipped back the final chapter and the epilogue of Under A Raging Moon to the chief mystery editor. Sure, there’ll be more work to do before publication, including reading the galleys for any errors, but...the major editing is complete, and we’re that much closer to publication (which is projected as June-ish).
Yay!
Yay!
25.January.2006.Wed
Rejections are a fact of life for writers. Before the advent of online submissions, all of my stories were submitted via snail mail and thus, all my rejections were physical pieces of paper. that I kept in a folder. I kept another folder with acceptances. Guess which looked like a dictionary and which one look like an instruction manual for a basketball? I still use both of those folders, by the way, for the snail mail submissions and rejections.
Stephen King writes about tacking each of his rejections to a wall and using them as motivation. Excellent tool, I’d say, unless you’re weak-minded and easily discouraged (in which case, writing is not for you).
Most of the rejections take on a very brisk “Thanks but no thanks” or “Just not right for us” form letter. Most (read: all) editors are busy and they receive a lot of junk and near-junk, so they don’t have the time to critique everything that comes across his/her desk.
You know you’re getting close when you start getting personalized comments on your rejections...well, as long as the comments don’t say, “You suck, dude!” Seriously, though, it is a good sign when the editor takes the time to say something encouraging or positive.
I’ve had 25 stories accepted (some of those are forthcoming) for publication in print mags, eZines and one anthology. That’s twenty-five acceptances. The rest of what I get are rejections...lots of them, too. However, some of them in the last year or so have contained encouraging words, like “I like your writing. This story doesn’t fit with us, but send us something else.” That came from a flash fiction eMag regarding a story that eventually became one of those magic 25 (just so you don’t think I’m bragging, 25 is a pittance. Many authors who are far from household names have sold or placed stories in the hundreds).
Another flash place took a look at Party Dress, which was eventually placed at Saucy Vox and wrote:
Frank:
Thanks for submitting to NAME OF MAG. Unfortunately, we have decided not to accept this story for publication. Best success selling it elsewhere.
Take care,
EDITOR’S NAME
PS The story has merit. However, I couldn’t find a hint of sciffy (sf) in it, which eliminated any chance of my being able to accept it. You did provide “fantasy” in an entirely different sense of the word
Not bad, as rejections go.
I got another one today:
Hello Frank,
Sorry to take so long to respond about ‘Helping Out’. Anyway, after much deliberation I’ve decided that it’s not quite to MAGAZINE NAME’s taste. That said, I liked the story and I definitely think you’ll have luck placing it elsewhere – my immediate suggestions are to submit to ANOTHER MAGAZINE (edited by EDITOR) and YET ANOTHER MAGAZINE (edited by EDITOR) if you haven’t done so already.
Good luck!
All best
EDITOR
Fiction Editor, MAGAZINE NAME
These types of rejections don’t change the fact that they said ‘No.’ But it makes for a much softer landing.
Stephen King writes about tacking each of his rejections to a wall and using them as motivation. Excellent tool, I’d say, unless you’re weak-minded and easily discouraged (in which case, writing is not for you).
Most of the rejections take on a very brisk “Thanks but no thanks” or “Just not right for us” form letter. Most (read: all) editors are busy and they receive a lot of junk and near-junk, so they don’t have the time to critique everything that comes across his/her desk.
You know you’re getting close when you start getting personalized comments on your rejections...well, as long as the comments don’t say, “You suck, dude!” Seriously, though, it is a good sign when the editor takes the time to say something encouraging or positive.
I’ve had 25 stories accepted (some of those are forthcoming) for publication in print mags, eZines and one anthology. That’s twenty-five acceptances. The rest of what I get are rejections...lots of them, too. However, some of them in the last year or so have contained encouraging words, like “I like your writing. This story doesn’t fit with us, but send us something else.” That came from a flash fiction eMag regarding a story that eventually became one of those magic 25 (just so you don’t think I’m bragging, 25 is a pittance. Many authors who are far from household names have sold or placed stories in the hundreds).
Another flash place took a look at Party Dress, which was eventually placed at Saucy Vox and wrote:
Frank:
Thanks for submitting to NAME OF MAG. Unfortunately, we have decided not to accept this story for publication. Best success selling it elsewhere.
Take care,
EDITOR’S NAME
PS The story has merit. However, I couldn’t find a hint of sciffy (sf) in it, which eliminated any chance of my being able to accept it. You did provide “fantasy” in an entirely different sense of the word
Not bad, as rejections go.
I got another one today:
Hello Frank,
Sorry to take so long to respond about ‘Helping Out’. Anyway, after much deliberation I’ve decided that it’s not quite to MAGAZINE NAME’s taste. That said, I liked the story and I definitely think you’ll have luck placing it elsewhere – my immediate suggestions are to submit to ANOTHER MAGAZINE (edited by EDITOR) and YET ANOTHER MAGAZINE (edited by EDITOR) if you haven’t done so already.
Good luck!
All best
EDITOR
Fiction Editor, MAGAZINE NAME
These types of rejections don’t change the fact that they said ‘No.’ But it makes for a much softer landing.
09.January.2006.Mon
The editing process for Under A Raging Moon is still underway. At the editors' request, I am taking another pass through the book with an eye toward a couple of trends. I am at chapter 8 (there are about 15). The editors are coming behind me and I review their edits and return them. Together, we just finished chapter 5.
So it is moving along.
What surprised me is how much I edited it on my pass. Part of it was focusing on the trends that the editors pointed out, but part of it was also having some time and distance from the work. That makes me feel better about letting All That Counts sit while my readers take a look at it, figuring I’ll be ready to slash it to ribbons when I finally get back to it.
So it is moving along.
What surprised me is how much I edited it on my pass. Part of it was focusing on the trends that the editors pointed out, but part of it was also having some time and distance from the work. That makes me feel better about letting All That Counts sit while my readers take a look at it, figuring I’ll be ready to slash it to ribbons when I finally get back to it.
06.January.2006.Fri
I learned yesterday that I was selected to join six other authors in an anthology called “Seven By Seven.”
The concept is this: seven authors, seven deadly sins, one anthology. All stories will be flash, between 300-600 words long.
I had to submit my take on avarice as an audition piece. I wrote a story called “Lead Time.”
I’m very excited and honored by this selection. I’m looking forward to the process. It should be finished by April 2006.
The concept is this: seven authors, seven deadly sins, one anthology. All stories will be flash, between 300-600 words long.
I had to submit my take on avarice as an audition piece. I wrote a story called “Lead Time.”
I’m very excited and honored by this selection. I’m looking forward to the process. It should be finished by April 2006.
21.December.2005.Wed
The work of editing "Under A Raging Moon" for publication with ePress-Online has begun in earnest. Three editors are assigned to the book and I have received back the prologue and first chapter with their comments and suggested revisions.
I was very impressed. The comments reflected a thorough reading of the work and the suggested changes on the technical side were all very sound. I think I accepted about 80% of them. All of the changes, I believe, made the book better.
So far, this has been a fun process. There’s a long way to go yet, but the beginning bodes well for things to come.
I was very impressed. The comments reflected a thorough reading of the work and the suggested changes on the technical side were all very sound. I think I accepted about 80% of them. All of the changes, I believe, made the book better.
So far, this has been a fun process. There’s a long way to go yet, but the beginning bodes well for things to come.
07.December.2005.Wed
A couple of days ago, I signed a contract with ePress-Online to publish Under A Raging Moon.
ePress publishes e-books as well as a trade paperback edition available via Lulu.com. The e-book is about a third of the cost as the print edition. They will soon be distributed by Fictionwise, which is the largest e-book distributor.
I corresponded with the editors of ePress for several months and really mulled this decision over in my mind very carefully. The company itself was very impressive in their attitude and energy, as well as their honesty. My only hesitations were (a) that they were not yet distributed by Fictionwise and (b) I wasn’t sure if an e-book was the right medium for me.
Regarding (a), they are in the process of meeting all the requirements Fictionwise has.
Regarding (b), I was willing to gamble that it was the right vehicle for me.
The contract terms were very fair and author-favorable. The stable of current authors gave glowing reports when I contacted them. So things look good.
A senior editor and two other editors have been assigned to my book and so that stage of the work begins. When there is a firm publication date, you can bet you’ll see it here!
ePress publishes e-books as well as a trade paperback edition available via Lulu.com. The e-book is about a third of the cost as the print edition. They will soon be distributed by Fictionwise, which is the largest e-book distributor.
I corresponded with the editors of ePress for several months and really mulled this decision over in my mind very carefully. The company itself was very impressive in their attitude and energy, as well as their honesty. My only hesitations were (a) that they were not yet distributed by Fictionwise and (b) I wasn’t sure if an e-book was the right medium for me.
Regarding (a), they are in the process of meeting all the requirements Fictionwise has.
Regarding (b), I was willing to gamble that it was the right vehicle for me.
The contract terms were very fair and author-favorable. The stable of current authors gave glowing reports when I contacted them. So things look good.
A senior editor and two other editors have been assigned to my book and so that stage of the work begins. When there is a firm publication date, you can bet you’ll see it here!
06.November.2005.Sun
I got a letter back from two agents this week.
Both wanted to represent me.
Before you send congratulations, you should know the rest.
The first agency sent two identical letters, both of them thanking me for allowing them to consider the following books: A Ragging Moon, Waist Deep, River City and Some Degree of Murder.
Okay, I don’t claim to be a household name (not even in my own household), but come on...if they’d read the proposal I sent, it is very clear that the name of the series is “River City.” And if they can’t even get the title of the first book right, how much attention are they really paying?
Oh, enough to ask for a $250 retainer, that’s how much.
The second agency is run by a felon, something I discovered after submitting a query letter. She wrote back a convincing “I want to represent you” letter, even writing that she “especially enjoyed the prologue and the epilogue in the first novel.”
The problem is, she’s been convicted in San Angelo, Texas for fraud and was working for another fraudelent agency. To make matters worse, she asked for a “retainer” of $325/year for one novel or $500/yr for the whole series.
At least she got the name of my book right.
The sad thing is, people pay them.
No reputable agent asks for any money up front. Period. These folks are scammers and I wish I’d done better research before mailing queries. I was in a rush, trying to get an agent to help in my negotiations with the small press that had made an offer on the series, and I cut corners. What I got for my trouble was about $25 in wasted copies and postage.
Better than the retainers fees, though, I suppose.
Both wanted to represent me.
Before you send congratulations, you should know the rest.
The first agency sent two identical letters, both of them thanking me for allowing them to consider the following books: A Ragging Moon, Waist Deep, River City and Some Degree of Murder.
Okay, I don’t claim to be a household name (not even in my own household), but come on...if they’d read the proposal I sent, it is very clear that the name of the series is “River City.” And if they can’t even get the title of the first book right, how much attention are they really paying?
Oh, enough to ask for a $250 retainer, that’s how much.
The second agency is run by a felon, something I discovered after submitting a query letter. She wrote back a convincing “I want to represent you” letter, even writing that she “especially enjoyed the prologue and the epilogue in the first novel.”
The problem is, she’s been convicted in San Angelo, Texas for fraud and was working for another fraudelent agency. To make matters worse, she asked for a “retainer” of $325/year for one novel or $500/yr for the whole series.
At least she got the name of my book right.
The sad thing is, people pay them.
No reputable agent asks for any money up front. Period. These folks are scammers and I wish I’d done better research before mailing queries. I was in a rush, trying to get an agent to help in my negotiations with the small press that had made an offer on the series, and I cut corners. What I got for my trouble was about $25 in wasted copies and postage.
Better than the retainers fees, though, I suppose.
12.October.2005.Wed
Well, while waiting for replies from agents, I sent my list of concerns regarding the contract offer to the publisher. My concerns were extensive, and in checking with experienced folks, valid.
I’d hoped this would signal the beginning of meaningful negotiations.
It didn’t.
I was told the contract changes I requested were “sweeping” [true] and that I didn’t understand the business [only partly true].
They pulled their offer.
Truth be told, it feels kinda weird. Elsewhere, I equated it to really wanting to get a girl into bed, even though you suspect that she’s trouble and might lead to a bad marriage, and then getting dumped by the same girl.
Probably I’m better off elsewhere.
Anyway, if you want to follow the whole sordid mess and input from some published authors, you can do it here.
For now, I’m considering re-submitting all of my novels elsewhere. Another option I am strongly considering is the offer from an ePublisher.
And you’ll notice I didn’t name the small press publisher before, in case things fell through. Now that they have fallen through, I still don’t think I’ll name them. Call it the high road, if you will. Or being professional.
I’d hoped this would signal the beginning of meaningful negotiations.
It didn’t.
I was told the contract changes I requested were “sweeping” [true] and that I didn’t understand the business [only partly true].
They pulled their offer.
Truth be told, it feels kinda weird. Elsewhere, I equated it to really wanting to get a girl into bed, even though you suspect that she’s trouble and might lead to a bad marriage, and then getting dumped by the same girl.
Probably I’m better off elsewhere.
Anyway, if you want to follow the whole sordid mess and input from some published authors, you can do it here.
For now, I’m considering re-submitting all of my novels elsewhere. Another option I am strongly considering is the offer from an ePublisher.
And you’ll notice I didn’t name the small press publisher before, in case things fell through. Now that they have fallen through, I still don’t think I’ll name them. Call it the high road, if you will. Or being professional.
26.September.2005.Mon
I am working hard at finding an agent to negotiate the current contract offers I have. There are some agents who are interested and my task now becomes selecting not only the best one, but the best one for me.
The contract I received is one that will need negotiation on a number of points, but I hope it is negotiation that bears fruit. I like the quality of product this publisher puts out and their committment to the River City Series.
The competing interest is an ePress, which has been very impressive in their quality of communication, enthusiasm and editorial insight.
These next few days and weeks are going to be full of important decisions for me.
The contract I received is one that will need negotiation on a number of points, but I hope it is negotiation that bears fruit. I like the quality of product this publisher puts out and their committment to the River City Series.
The competing interest is an ePress, which has been very impressive in their quality of communication, enthusiasm and editorial insight.
These next few days and weeks are going to be full of important decisions for me.
14.September.2005.Wed
The agent responded quickly to my email...and she declined to represent me.
C'est la vie.
The only thing worse than not getting an answer...is getting an answer.
On the plus side, the Senior Mystery editor with the e-press seems very enthusiastic, knowledgeable and personable.
C'est la vie.
The only thing worse than not getting an answer...is getting an answer.
On the plus side, the Senior Mystery editor with the e-press seems very enthusiastic, knowledgeable and personable.
Here’s a touch of irony for ya.
I also received an email yesterday. It was an acceptance letter from an e-press for Under A Raging Moon.
[grin]
The truth of it is, they seemed like a solid establishment, so it is something I will consider. They do hard-publish some of their titles, it appears.
Oh, and still no reply from the agent in question.
I also received an email yesterday. It was an acceptance letter from an e-press for Under A Raging Moon.
[grin]
The truth of it is, they seemed like a solid establishment, so it is something I will consider. They do hard-publish some of their titles, it appears.
Oh, and still no reply from the agent in question.
13.September.2005.Tue
I received a package in the mail yesterday containing contract offers from a small press publisher.
I haven’t had a chance to look them over yet, and it may end up being a few days, but let me just say that simply receiving a contractual offer is a very satisfying event. Not worth celebrating (yet), but satisfying.
I’ve been alluding to nibbles and interest in the River City books since April, so it’s nice to finally have an offer to look at.
I haven’t had a chance to look them over yet, and it may end up being a few days, but let me just say that simply receiving a contractual offer is a very satisfying event. Not worth celebrating (yet), but satisfying.
I’ve been alluding to nibbles and interest in the River City books since April, so it’s nice to finally have an offer to look at.
