Hello followers,
I am doing a fund raising campaign on Indie gogo dot come. I could use your help. If you can't contribute, please go to the website and forward it on to your friends. I think the perks as a thank you gift for funding are great. Check it out.
Thank you,
Brenda
Brenda Gallaher's Indie gogo dot com
Monday, June 16, 2014
Thursday, June 5, 2014
Review of "The Case of The Glamorous Ghost" by Erle Stanley Gardner
Okay, so you ask, who is Erle Stanley Gardner?? First off he was an attorney who turned to writing. His most famous character is Perry Mason. The original TV series was done from his books, with a lot of the episodes coming straight from the novels or short stories. You can find more information on Gardner here, Erle Stanley Gardner.
The Case of The Glamorous Ghost was original published in 1955 and republished in 1992. The story opens with a young woman, dressed only in a slip and raincoat, dancing in the dark where a young couple is sitting in a car. It goes downhill from there for the young lady.
It's a typical Perry Mason novel. His client is a trouble maker, a young wild girl. She's motherless and just does as she pleases. Her older half-sister is concerned for her and some of the problems she has caused. The young lady states she has amnesia, but no one believes her. Does she have amnesia? The reader isn't quite sure until the end.
Mason's client lies to him, lies to her family and is keeping a secret. And then there is the amnesia. And the jewels? Who do the jewels belong to? Where did they come from? Should Mason bring them out into the light?
And of course, what good is a Mason novel without the playful banter between him and his secretary, Della Street? It's been a decade or so since I've read a Mason novel and forgot how well these two characters interact with each other. She calls him Chief all of the time in story. If you've watched the old TV series, 1957-1966, then you can see Raymond Burr, actor, as Perry Mason [Raymond Burr Vineyard] and Barbara Hale as Della Street [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Della_Street]. Although in this particular story Paul Drake isn't in it much, there's more Della Street, you can still see William Hopper as the character.
The novel is one of the best one. Some of the earlier ones are better, but from the 1950's this is one of the better ones. If you want a light read, with some great character interaction, then this is the novel for you. Give it a try. Gardner's books are not like the gritty, in your face, gory books that are written today. But they are fun to read and a lot of them keep you guessing. I love the way this one ends.
The Case of The Glamorous Ghost was original published in 1955 and republished in 1992. The story opens with a young woman, dressed only in a slip and raincoat, dancing in the dark where a young couple is sitting in a car. It goes downhill from there for the young lady.
It's a typical Perry Mason novel. His client is a trouble maker, a young wild girl. She's motherless and just does as she pleases. Her older half-sister is concerned for her and some of the problems she has caused. The young lady states she has amnesia, but no one believes her. Does she have amnesia? The reader isn't quite sure until the end.
Mason's client lies to him, lies to her family and is keeping a secret. And then there is the amnesia. And the jewels? Who do the jewels belong to? Where did they come from? Should Mason bring them out into the light?
And of course, what good is a Mason novel without the playful banter between him and his secretary, Della Street? It's been a decade or so since I've read a Mason novel and forgot how well these two characters interact with each other. She calls him Chief all of the time in story. If you've watched the old TV series, 1957-1966, then you can see Raymond Burr, actor, as Perry Mason [Raymond Burr Vineyard] and Barbara Hale as Della Street [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Della_Street]. Although in this particular story Paul Drake isn't in it much, there's more Della Street, you can still see William Hopper as the character.
The novel is one of the best one. Some of the earlier ones are better, but from the 1950's this is one of the better ones. If you want a light read, with some great character interaction, then this is the novel for you. Give it a try. Gardner's books are not like the gritty, in your face, gory books that are written today. But they are fun to read and a lot of them keep you guessing. I love the way this one ends.
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| Raymond William Stacy Burr |
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| Barbara Hale |
| William Hopper |
Monday, May 26, 2014
Welcome to the blog tour. I was invited to participate by Tara. Her website is: www.taramayoros.com Stop by her site and browse around. But for a teaser, here is her bio:
Tara Mayoros is an author, artist, baker, music teacher, gardener, and nature lover. She sees the beauty in the process, and the miracle of creation. The mountains are her home and they cal to her whenever she finds herself in need of inspiration.
Her debut Women's Romance Novel BROKEN SMILES is set for a fall release by Astraea Press.
**********************************
Now, for a little more information on myself:
What am I working on?
I am working on a historical novel set in 1939 Louisiana.
How does my work differ from others of its genre?
That's a good question and I'm not sure how to answer it. Since I am in the beginning process of this new novel, I am not sure of its voice yet. The story is told from the perspective of an 11 year old girl, but have not decided if it's for middle grade readers or adults. I will know once the story takes more shape.
Why do I write what I do?
The story that I write at any given time is the one that won't leave me alone. The characters talk in my head and plague my dreams until I open a Word document and start to write. Then they really go to town until I write on a consistent basis.
How does my writing process work?
My first historical novel I plotted things on paper and then wrote from there. I didn't care much for the process, but completed the book that way. Now, when I write, I just sit down and type what goes from my mind to my fingers to the keys on the laptop. Before hand though, I do figure out the main characters and give them each a bio. That way, when I write about them, I already know them. I know their likes and dislikes, what they look like, their age, their abilities or disabilities and whether or not if they are a good or bad person.
Thank you for joining the blog tour and I hope you have enjoyed it.
Tara Mayoros is an author, artist, baker, music teacher, gardener, and nature lover. She sees the beauty in the process, and the miracle of creation. The mountains are her home and they cal to her whenever she finds herself in need of inspiration.
Her debut Women's Romance Novel BROKEN SMILES is set for a fall release by Astraea Press.
**********************************
Now, for a little more information on myself:
What am I working on?
I am working on a historical novel set in 1939 Louisiana.
How does my work differ from others of its genre?
That's a good question and I'm not sure how to answer it. Since I am in the beginning process of this new novel, I am not sure of its voice yet. The story is told from the perspective of an 11 year old girl, but have not decided if it's for middle grade readers or adults. I will know once the story takes more shape.
Why do I write what I do?
The story that I write at any given time is the one that won't leave me alone. The characters talk in my head and plague my dreams until I open a Word document and start to write. Then they really go to town until I write on a consistent basis.
How does my writing process work?
My first historical novel I plotted things on paper and then wrote from there. I didn't care much for the process, but completed the book that way. Now, when I write, I just sit down and type what goes from my mind to my fingers to the keys on the laptop. Before hand though, I do figure out the main characters and give them each a bio. That way, when I write about them, I already know them. I know their likes and dislikes, what they look like, their age, their abilities or disabilities and whether or not if they are a good or bad person.
Thank you for joining the blog tour and I hope you have enjoyed it.
Saturday, March 22, 2014
What you can do while waiting to hear from the publisher
Hello Followers, I hope everyone is having a great Saturday evening. Mine is going pretty well.
I am still waiting to hear if the publisher wants my book or not. So I have been doing other things to keep me physically and mentally busy. Otherwise I may just go crazy. So you ask, what have I been doing? I'll tell you.
This past Thursday night I went to my writing league meeting. It was quite interesting. Kim spoke about writing for children. She spoke about infants all the way up to 16-17 year olds. The publishing industry has a specific cut off for each age range, although your novel could fall in between two of the age limits. It all depends on your story. And where you think it should be.
The question was asked if racial slurs should be used. Her answer was generally "no", but there are some circumstances when they could be used. Such as in Historical Fiction. It would almost be expected to be used. But she warned that using the N word was very tricky. A lot of publishers won't accept that word, even in a Historical Fiction novel. One way to get around that would be to have the character start the word and never finish it because someone else stopped him/her or to have some big noise event happen that would cover up the rest of the word. That way, it would convey to the reader what was intended without actually using such an awful word.
Another question asked on Thursday night, was about the use of curse words. Should children be using them? Should adults in the story be using them? Kim explained that gratuitous cursing is just wrong. If the scene called for it, it could be used. But, a lot of publishers frown upon the use of the F-bomb. I personally do not read books where any character, an adult or child, uses the F-bomb or takes the Lord's name and uses it as a curse word. I have not finished books because of it. There is never a reason that anyone should use those in literature. I know that a lot of people will disagree with me, but this is my blog.
Kim spoke about picture books, chapter books and what worked well and what didn't. She gave us some tips that she learned the hard way. She didn't want us to go through the same pain and monetary problems she did. She also talked about the difference between a vanity press and indie publishing.
I think it was a really productive way for me to spend my evening. I learned something new, I was able to ask her questions afterwards regarding a story I have floating through my head, and got to see some old friends
My good friend and fellow author, Alara Harpell, could not be there in person, but she was there in spirit. She is an author you will want to follow. Click on her name above and it will take you to her blog. We miss her in our league meetings. She has moved from Utah to San Diego. I was able to see my good friend for a little while when she came to visit family. It was a good February.
There are plenty of other things I do to keep busy so as not to fuss over why I haven't heard from the publisher yet. I volunteer. I participate in retail therapy. I bake. I start writing a new novel or edit what I've already written on the new novel. I'm planning a garden. And occasionally I throw children out of my yard on their way home from school. Their parents should have taught them not to trespass.
If you have ever wanted to write, but didn't know where to start, I'll tell you. Find a writing league. I didn't know anyone the first time I went. I was so scared that they would think I was too stupid or too dumb or that I asked too many questions. But that didn't happen. I was welcomed with open arms and I know have some friends. And just because you've written a book doesn't mean it's ready for publication. Join a critique group. If you get into the right one, it will make a world of difference. If on the other hand you just like to read, follow my blog, follow Alara's blog and enjoy our journey to be published authors.
Thank you for stopping by today. If you have any questions or just want to say "HI", don't hesitate to leave a comment. Thanks.
bbg
I am still waiting to hear if the publisher wants my book or not. So I have been doing other things to keep me physically and mentally busy. Otherwise I may just go crazy. So you ask, what have I been doing? I'll tell you.
This past Thursday night I went to my writing league meeting. It was quite interesting. Kim spoke about writing for children. She spoke about infants all the way up to 16-17 year olds. The publishing industry has a specific cut off for each age range, although your novel could fall in between two of the age limits. It all depends on your story. And where you think it should be.
The question was asked if racial slurs should be used. Her answer was generally "no", but there are some circumstances when they could be used. Such as in Historical Fiction. It would almost be expected to be used. But she warned that using the N word was very tricky. A lot of publishers won't accept that word, even in a Historical Fiction novel. One way to get around that would be to have the character start the word and never finish it because someone else stopped him/her or to have some big noise event happen that would cover up the rest of the word. That way, it would convey to the reader what was intended without actually using such an awful word.
Another question asked on Thursday night, was about the use of curse words. Should children be using them? Should adults in the story be using them? Kim explained that gratuitous cursing is just wrong. If the scene called for it, it could be used. But, a lot of publishers frown upon the use of the F-bomb. I personally do not read books where any character, an adult or child, uses the F-bomb or takes the Lord's name and uses it as a curse word. I have not finished books because of it. There is never a reason that anyone should use those in literature. I know that a lot of people will disagree with me, but this is my blog.
Kim spoke about picture books, chapter books and what worked well and what didn't. She gave us some tips that she learned the hard way. She didn't want us to go through the same pain and monetary problems she did. She also talked about the difference between a vanity press and indie publishing.
I think it was a really productive way for me to spend my evening. I learned something new, I was able to ask her questions afterwards regarding a story I have floating through my head, and got to see some old friends
 |
| Alara Harpell, Author |
If you have ever wanted to write, but didn't know where to start, I'll tell you. Find a writing league. I didn't know anyone the first time I went. I was so scared that they would think I was too stupid or too dumb or that I asked too many questions. But that didn't happen. I was welcomed with open arms and I know have some friends. And just because you've written a book doesn't mean it's ready for publication. Join a critique group. If you get into the right one, it will make a world of difference. If on the other hand you just like to read, follow my blog, follow Alara's blog and enjoy our journey to be published authors.
Thank you for stopping by today. If you have any questions or just want to say "HI", don't hesitate to leave a comment. Thanks.
bbg
Friday, March 14, 2014
It's a Waiting Game
How I hate waiting to hear from the publisher. Oh, I know it's a necessary evil, but that doesn't mean I have to like it. But it is what I am doing. I submitted my novel, An English Summer, about 6 weeks ago and now waiting for the publisher to decide if they like it or not. I certainly hope so. I think it's a great story.
So, while I wait, I read my favorite authors, watch a lot of TV and write on my next story. One must remain busy.
So, while I wait, I read my favorite authors, watch a lot of TV and write on my next story. One must remain busy.
Thursday, February 6, 2014
submitted again
Hello everyone. I have been a little lazy, but did finally resubmit my novel An English Summer to another publisher. I submitted it to Covenant Books here in Utah. Wish me well that they like the story and will accept it for publication.
I am still working on Lily's story, but it's taking longer than anticipated. Lily has been silent lately, and I don't know what she wants me to tell the readers. She'll wake up soon, I'm sure of it.
I am still working on Lily's story, but it's taking longer than anticipated. Lily has been silent lately, and I don't know what she wants me to tell the readers. She'll wake up soon, I'm sure of it.
Monday, February 3, 2014
3 Star review for Foul Play
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| Author Betsy Brannon Green |
With that said, I am sure you are wondering why she only got three stars for her book Foul Play. Well, it just really wasn't worth any more than that. I was in Segull Books and found her book on CD. I hadn't listened to a book before, but thought why not. I'll give it a chance. It said it was unabridged, which is good. I would not want to miss anything.
But I felt like I did miss things. It just felt so shortened and truncated. A few other things I didn't like was the voice of the woman who read the book. It was so sugary that I was afraid I may have gotten diabetes just from listening to it. Also, it was the worse Southern accent I ever heard anyone fake. Just sad all around.
There was nothing surprising in the story. No twists or turns that I didn't see coming and just a bit too much LDS. It was a little preachy. The good thing was it was a clean read. Maybe this is one of her first books before the Midway/Haggerty books and her writing has improved and that's why I like the other books better.
You may like the story and writing, but I just don't feel as if it was her best. There was just too much lacking for my taste. I will look for other books she has written, but will not worry about this one any more. I wish her well and look forward to more Kennedy Killingsworth stories.
Friday, December 13, 2013
It is not the end of the world, or is it
Sad news. Deseret Book did not want my novel. So, now I have to find some more publishers to send it off to. While I'm waiting on that, I am still writing on Lily's story. How disappointing.
Sunday last was 9 weeks so I sent an email to their submissions email account asking if I was going to hear something soon. I got an answer back today saying they had sent me an answer on December 2, 2013 saying they didn't want my book. Not a good night now. oh well...
I can't let it get me down. I just need to keep plugging away. Thanks for all of your support and please keep it up. I'm working on a new novel.
Sunday last was 9 weeks so I sent an email to their submissions email account asking if I was going to hear something soon. I got an answer back today saying they had sent me an answer on December 2, 2013 saying they didn't want my book. Not a good night now. oh well...
I can't let it get me down. I just need to keep plugging away. Thanks for all of your support and please keep it up. I'm working on a new novel.
Friday, November 29, 2013
4 star review for Murder by the Way by Betsy Brannon Green
When her ex-husband's new wife tells her to leave her husband alone, I think Kennedy should have spoken up instead of staying silent and making it look like she was loose. I don't like that. Kennedy should have stood up for yourself, but she didn't. Annoying...
The story is well written, but I don't like the way it was wrapped up. I don't like who turned out to be the bad guy[s] and why. It's like she couldn't figure what to do with everyone.
I'm glad she married Luke. Not giving anything way. It's in the first chapter. And I can't stand Miss Ida Jean. Kennedy's momma should have put her in her place a long time ago. She's obnoxious.
But, the story is worth reading. I just think you should read from the first book in the series. I found the second book and read it first. Then I read this one, which is the third book. There really isn't any need to read the first book. Doesn't matter who does what or why. Usually it doesn't matter if I pick up a book in the middle of the series, but for this series it does. So start with the first one. They are worth reading.
You can find Betsy's books here: Betsy Brannon Green's website
I have not read her other series, but I do have another one of her books on CD. I hope it's as good.
You can find Green's and other great authors' books here: Seagull Book. So, stop by one of their local stores here in Utah or shop from their website.
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Lily's Dilemma
I told you last week that I would post which book I decided to write. So here it is.
I am writing the mail-order bride story. My heroine is Lily Jane Bounds. And of course I cannot tell you who the hero is. That would not be fair. I also can't tell you why I choose another flower name, but I did. I think this picture of the lily below is quite exquisite.
In the last week I have written 7,213 words. Not bad. There would be more, but it just didn't happen.
I hope you will follow me along this new journey. No, I have not heard about the status of my book submissions. And I don't like it either. Say a pray the publisher will accept my novel and An English Summer will be published.
Go to my facebook author page and like me. I appreciate the fan loyalty. Brenda Birch Gallaher, Author Facebook page
I am writing the mail-order bride story. My heroine is Lily Jane Bounds. And of course I cannot tell you who the hero is. That would not be fair. I also can't tell you why I choose another flower name, but I did. I think this picture of the lily below is quite exquisite.
In the last week I have written 7,213 words. Not bad. There would be more, but it just didn't happen.
I hope you will follow me along this new journey. No, I have not heard about the status of my book submissions. And I don't like it either. Say a pray the publisher will accept my novel and An English Summer will be published.
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| Lily |
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