~Bev
The Nocturnal Editor
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 31, 2016
The Nocturnal Editor
You may or may not have noticed, but I have renamed the Abraxas Writing & Editing Services FB page to The Nocturnal Editor. If you haven't dropped by and 'liked' my page, please do! If you need writing or editing services, PM me or e-mail nocturnaleditor@gmail.com.
~Bev
The Nocturnal Editor
~Bev
The Nocturnal Editor
Thursday, July 14, 2016
Need help with writing and/or editing? I can help!
Creativity in a slump?
Need help polishing your prose?
Unsure how to start a freelance writing or editing career?
I can help!
Work with the one and only (literary) Mother of Crows! I'm the owner of )0( Triple Crow Publishing )0(, Abraxas Writing & Editing Services, and a partner of Ghouls on the Go, LLC.
My longtime friend and colleague, Mindy Phillips Lawrence, asked for my current writing, editing, and coaching/teaching rates, so I figured now's a good time to repost them.
My affordable (and downright incredible!) rates are located here: http://www.motherofcrows.com/p/hire-me.html.
Need help polishing your prose?
Unsure how to start a freelance writing or editing career?
I can help!
Work with the one and only (literary) Mother of Crows! I'm the owner of )0( Triple Crow Publishing )0(, Abraxas Writing & Editing Services, and a partner of Ghouls on the Go, LLC.
My longtime friend and colleague, Mindy Phillips Lawrence, asked for my current writing, editing, and coaching/teaching rates, so I figured now's a good time to repost them.
My affordable (and downright incredible!) rates are located here: http://www.motherofcrows.com/p/hire-me.html.
If you need a freelance writer, blogger, editor, or writing coach/instructor with 19 years of experience, contact me. I'm accepting new clients once again.
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
New business cards for our new venture ~ Ghouls on the Go!
 |
Ghouls on the Go, our new venture.Visit our blog here or our FRESH and NEW website athttp://www.ghoulsonthego.com |
Back of our Ghouls on the Go business card
Probably the coolest thing -- a Ghouls on the Go coffee cup!
Saturday, October 24, 2015
Why yes, I'm nocturnal. Unless...
I prefer working at night (unless I can't) because it's quiet, nobody bothers me (no calls or visitors), and my mind is clearer and more creative. My birth time was 10:40 p.m., so I began life as a nocturnal soul.
However, if you want to hire me at a can't-say-no salary, I'll be glad to switch back to a morning shift. Just sayin'!
However, if you want to hire me at a can't-say-no salary, I'll be glad to switch back to a morning shift. Just sayin'!
Sunday, October 18, 2015
[Blog Post from The Writer's Dominatrix] Are you a give-a-shit writer?
Originally published at The Writer's Dominatrix
Look, I get that writing a book manuscript isn’t easy. I know it takes countless hours of your life and it can drain your brain like nothing else. If writing were an easy feat, every person would do it. But that’s no excuse for sloppy manuscript submissions. At the minimum, you should have punctuation in your manuscript, as well as paragraphs. Who the hell thinks having NO PARAGRAPHS in a manuscript is a good idea?!*
(*Interrobangs are so much fun to use, aren’t they?)
Please, respect your editor and publisher. Don’t send them a manuscript that’s laden with errors and half-assed efforts like missing quotation marks (really?). Does a person who never uses quotation marks realize that dialogue requires such marks, or were they too damned lazy to bother with it in the first place? I’m betting on the latter.
While you’re at it, why don’t you run a cursory spell check so it appears you made an attempt to check your work in some small way before you shunted it off to your editor or publisher? Yeah, that would be nice. Oh, wait. Is that too much to ask? For many so-called writers, it is. Learning the craft of writing is SO last century, isn’t it? I mean, who has the TIME? *insert hair flip*
You can always tell the difference between writers who sling together a manuscript in hopes of selling a bunch of books to make a wad of cash versus a writer who takes the craft of writing seriously. The latter will obsess over every. little. detaileven after the manuscript is out of his or her hands. In fact, once the book is published, the caring writer will still regret not making even more changes before the book found its way onto the bookshelves. This type of writer gives a shit.
And the slapdash writer? This is the kind I want to strangle (not really, but the angry emotion is there). Well, that writer doesn’t give a damn about much of anything. They’ll serve up a pile of prosaic poop and expect their editor to turn a sow’s ear into a silk purse. Who needs to know anything about spelling and grammar, right? The editor should fix all of it, so why does the writer need to know the difference between their/there/they’re? Who has time for figuring out and learning homophones, right? This type of writer gives no shits…at all. They’re the type who will fling crap at a wall and then expect others to turn it into a Picasso. If you’re this type of writer, you’re an asshole. Yep, I said it because it’s true.
The funny thing is, once writers who don’t give a shit have their books published, they’re shocked to learn they’re not outselling J.K. Rowling. Take it from me: these writers almost always go out of their way to tell you how they are the next big thing in the literary world and how all their books will be bestsellers.
Conversely, the writer who gives a shit hardly, if ever, allows those words pass his or her lips. It all leads back to thinking of writing as a craft and something you do for your entire life, as opposed to something you do on a lark to see if you can rake in money so you can brag about it to your Aunt Martha at Christmas time.
Writers who care will write no matter what. Most of the time, they want to earn a living with their words so they can keep writing as a career instead of being stuck in a hellish cubicle doing something they absolutely hate. They cannot NOT write. It’s not possible. Writing is not just what they do, but is an essential part of who they ARE.
People who masquerade as writers only give a shit about writing when they can get something superficial out of it. You won’t find these types at literary meet-ups or discussing the wonders of Shakespeare or Murakami. They won’t know who Jack Kerouac is, nor will they know the difference between David Sedaris and David Copperfield (he’s an author, right?). Because, heck, they probably don’t read much. Reading is for boring people, you see. They may even brag that they haven’t read a book since high school or college. They aren’t concerned with the importance of literature OR the art and craft of writing. They’re concerned with the potential for fame and quick cash to use for their next casino trip to Las Vegas.
It pains me to say it, but the people I’ve described in the previous paragraph are still considered writers. If you write, you’re a writer. But not all writers are the same. This type of writer never earns my respect, nor will they ever. They use writing like it’s little more than a White Chapel whore for their personal pleasure. They use it, wring out what pleasure or benefit they can, and then toss it to the side with nary a backward glance. They don’t truly care about books, writing, literature, authors, readers, or anything of the sort. It’s all about what’s in it for them — that’s it. They’re users, not givers.
Do me a favor, will ya? Strive to become the type of writer who gives a shit, not the kind who doesn’t. If you don’t have the proper respect for books and writing, find another hobby. We need more givers and fewer takers. Which one are you?
(*Interrobangs are so much fun to use, aren’t they?)
Please, respect your editor and publisher. Don’t send them a manuscript that’s laden with errors and half-assed efforts like missing quotation marks (really?). Does a person who never uses quotation marks realize that dialogue requires such marks, or were they too damned lazy to bother with it in the first place? I’m betting on the latter.
While you’re at it, why don’t you run a cursory spell check so it appears you made an attempt to check your work in some small way before you shunted it off to your editor or publisher? Yeah, that would be nice. Oh, wait. Is that too much to ask? For many so-called writers, it is. Learning the craft of writing is SO last century, isn’t it? I mean, who has the TIME? *insert hair flip*
You can always tell the difference between writers who sling together a manuscript in hopes of selling a bunch of books to make a wad of cash versus a writer who takes the craft of writing seriously. The latter will obsess over every. little. detaileven after the manuscript is out of his or her hands. In fact, once the book is published, the caring writer will still regret not making even more changes before the book found its way onto the bookshelves. This type of writer gives a shit.
And the slapdash writer? This is the kind I want to strangle (not really, but the angry emotion is there). Well, that writer doesn’t give a damn about much of anything. They’ll serve up a pile of prosaic poop and expect their editor to turn a sow’s ear into a silk purse. Who needs to know anything about spelling and grammar, right? The editor should fix all of it, so why does the writer need to know the difference between their/there/they’re? Who has time for figuring out and learning homophones, right? This type of writer gives no shits…at all. They’re the type who will fling crap at a wall and then expect others to turn it into a Picasso. If you’re this type of writer, you’re an asshole. Yep, I said it because it’s true.
The funny thing is, once writers who don’t give a shit have their books published, they’re shocked to learn they’re not outselling J.K. Rowling. Take it from me: these writers almost always go out of their way to tell you how they are the next big thing in the literary world and how all their books will be bestsellers.
Conversely, the writer who gives a shit hardly, if ever, allows those words pass his or her lips. It all leads back to thinking of writing as a craft and something you do for your entire life, as opposed to something you do on a lark to see if you can rake in money so you can brag about it to your Aunt Martha at Christmas time.
Writers who care will write no matter what. Most of the time, they want to earn a living with their words so they can keep writing as a career instead of being stuck in a hellish cubicle doing something they absolutely hate. They cannot NOT write. It’s not possible. Writing is not just what they do, but is an essential part of who they ARE.
People who masquerade as writers only give a shit about writing when they can get something superficial out of it. You won’t find these types at literary meet-ups or discussing the wonders of Shakespeare or Murakami. They won’t know who Jack Kerouac is, nor will they know the difference between David Sedaris and David Copperfield (he’s an author, right?). Because, heck, they probably don’t read much. Reading is for boring people, you see. They may even brag that they haven’t read a book since high school or college. They aren’t concerned with the importance of literature OR the art and craft of writing. They’re concerned with the potential for fame and quick cash to use for their next casino trip to Las Vegas.
It pains me to say it, but the people I’ve described in the previous paragraph are still considered writers. If you write, you’re a writer. But not all writers are the same. This type of writer never earns my respect, nor will they ever. They use writing like it’s little more than a White Chapel whore for their personal pleasure. They use it, wring out what pleasure or benefit they can, and then toss it to the side with nary a backward glance. They don’t truly care about books, writing, literature, authors, readers, or anything of the sort. It’s all about what’s in it for them — that’s it. They’re users, not givers.
Do me a favor, will ya? Strive to become the type of writer who gives a shit, not the kind who doesn’t. If you don’t have the proper respect for books and writing, find another hobby. We need more givers and fewer takers. Which one are you?
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Need an editor or proofreader? Hire me!
I’ve been a professional writer and editor for nearly two decades. If you have a book manuscript that needs polishing, I can assist you. You’ll get a professional copy edit or proofread at a reasonable price. Plus, I tell great jokes if you catch me on the right day. ;-) I may also share virtual coffee, tea, and chocolate, depending on your preferences.
But seriously, if you’ve written something for publication and you need a professional edit or proofread without a lot of hassle and without busting your budget, I’m your best choice.
Not sure if you need copy editing or proofreading? Here’s a link that will help you make that determination: http://thewriteoneblog.com/substantive-editing-copy-editing-proofreading/
Once you’re clear on what you need, here’s what I charge for the services I provide:
Copy editing – $2 per double-spaced page (must adhere to standard ms. format)
Proofreading – $1.50 per double-spaced page (must adhere to standard ms. format)
Coaching sessions for writers (Skype or telephone) – $20 per half-hour session
Professional writing courses – $20 per week and up. Go here for more info: https://www.facebook.com/Abraxas.Writing.Courses
* I DO NOT provide developmental editing services.
* I DO NOT provide ghostwriting services.
* I am NOT a literary agent.
Anything else I might agree to do for you – $25 per hour
(Hint: paying a flat fee is easier on your wallet).
Before you contact me, please note:
* I’m an editor and proofreader, not a ghostwriter. I will NOT rewrite or write your manuscript.
* I’m not your therapist. I will edit or proofread your manuscript.
* If I don’t know you well or you’re not a close friend, please do not friend me on Facebook.
* I do not work for free or for a promised share of royalties.
* A deposit of half my editing or proofreading fee is expected upfront.
* You are paying for my time as well as my knowledge and expertise.
* I work during the week, but not on weekends.
* Rush jobs are not welcome. I don’t do rush jobs. I often work with more than one client at a time and I won’t cut corners for existing clients to satisfy rush jobs.
* I’m a nice, patient person under most circumstances. Do not take advantage of my jocular nature ;-)
If you have other questions, drop me a line.
If you think we’ll make a good fit, proceed to the info below.
Ready to get started? E-mail me at nocturnaleditor (at) gmail.com. I’ll need no fewer than five pages of your work to determine if I will agree to edit or proofread it. Unfortunately for some people, but fortunately for me, I have minimum standards for manuscripts I will edit or proofread. To get a clue what those standards might be, see this post: https://writersdominatrix.wordpress.com/2015/10/14/this-shouldnt-even-be-a-thing-and-yet-it-is/
I look forward to hearing from you.
But seriously, if you’ve written something for publication and you need a professional edit or proofread without a lot of hassle and without busting your budget, I’m your best choice.
Not sure if you need copy editing or proofreading? Here’s a link that will help you make that determination: http://thewriteoneblog.com/substantive-editing-copy-editing-proofreading/
Once you’re clear on what you need, here’s what I charge for the services I provide:
Copy editing – $2 per double-spaced page (must adhere to standard ms. format)
Proofreading – $1.50 per double-spaced page (must adhere to standard ms. format)
Coaching sessions for writers (Skype or telephone) – $20 per half-hour session
Professional writing courses – $20 per week and up. Go here for more info: https://www.facebook.com/Abraxas.Writing.Courses
* I DO NOT provide developmental editing services.
* I DO NOT provide ghostwriting services.
* I am NOT a literary agent.
Anything else I might agree to do for you – $25 per hour
(Hint: paying a flat fee is easier on your wallet).
Before you contact me, please note:
* I’m an editor and proofreader, not a ghostwriter. I will NOT rewrite or write your manuscript.
* I’m not your therapist. I will edit or proofread your manuscript.
* If I don’t know you well or you’re not a close friend, please do not friend me on Facebook.
* I do not work for free or for a promised share of royalties.
* A deposit of half my editing or proofreading fee is expected upfront.
* You are paying for my time as well as my knowledge and expertise.
* I work during the week, but not on weekends.
* Rush jobs are not welcome. I don’t do rush jobs. I often work with more than one client at a time and I won’t cut corners for existing clients to satisfy rush jobs.
* I’m a nice, patient person under most circumstances. Do not take advantage of my jocular nature ;-)
If you have other questions, drop me a line.
If you think we’ll make a good fit, proceed to the info below.
Ready to get started? E-mail me at nocturnaleditor (at) gmail.com. I’ll need no fewer than five pages of your work to determine if I will agree to edit or proofread it. Unfortunately for some people, but fortunately for me, I have minimum standards for manuscripts I will edit or proofread. To get a clue what those standards might be, see this post: https://writersdominatrix.wordpress.com/2015/10/14/this-shouldnt-even-be-a-thing-and-yet-it-is/
I look forward to hearing from you.
Saturday, October 10, 2015
Are you ready for NaNoWriMo?
Join me for NaNoWriMo 2015!
Find me under the nickname 'elementalmuse' over at nanowrimo.org and add me as a writing buddy. I'll be delighted to add you back. Let's write together the entire month of November 2015.
Find me under the nickname 'elementalmuse' over at nanowrimo.org and add me as a writing buddy. I'll be delighted to add you back. Let's write together the entire month of November 2015.
Thursday, October 8, 2015
Abraxas Writing & Editing Services: Notice to Writers & Authors
Posting this on several pages and blogs to ensure I get the point across
========================================================
========================================================
Effective immediately, Abraxas Writing & Editing Services will no longer accept manuscripts for editing that do not meet basic standards of manuscript formatting and readability. If your manuscript includes the following, we will not edit your work:
* Lack of paragraphs throughout the manuscript
* Lack of quotation marks throughout the manuscript
* Commas used instead of periods to end sentences
* Hard returns throughout the document
* Hidden characters throughout the document (if you aren't sure what that means, use Google for further information)
* No capital letters at the beginning of every sentence
* Incomplete words as shorthand. Example: 'e one' used for 'everyone' throughout the manuscript
* Run-on sentences that turn the entire document into one or two long sentences
* Nonstandard fonts and font sizes (if you are unsure what standard fonts and font sizes are for manuscript submissions, it's time to do your homework)
* Backward quotation marks throughout the document
There may be other egregious errors involved that are not listed here, but you get the point. Any proper document or manuscript must have a minimum of readability and formatting. If your work ignores such basic conventions, then you have corrections to make before you have any business submitting your work to anyone in the publishing industry.
Once you take the time to get your manuscript into proper form, you may then resubmit your manuscript to us for editing or proofreading. If you prefer, you may choose to keep your manuscript as-is or in barely readable form and find someone else who will take the time to muddle through and render it somewhat readable.
We will no longer ask our team of professional editors and proofreaders to wade through thousands of words and hundreds of pages of narrative and dialogue that is barely decipherable or understandable. To submit work in such a manner shows a lack of care and respect for any editor, agent, or publisher.
An essential part of writing professionally is learning the basics of submitting a manuscript for review and revision. If authors cannot or will not take the time to make these changes, we cannot and will not spend our time and energy correcting and improving their unreadable work.
Regards,
Bev Sninchak
Abraxas Writing & Editing Services
nocturnaleditor@gmail.com
* Lack of paragraphs throughout the manuscript
* Lack of quotation marks throughout the manuscript
* Commas used instead of periods to end sentences
* Hard returns throughout the document
* Hidden characters throughout the document (if you aren't sure what that means, use Google for further information)
* No capital letters at the beginning of every sentence
* Incomplete words as shorthand. Example: 'e one' used for 'everyone' throughout the manuscript
* Run-on sentences that turn the entire document into one or two long sentences
* Nonstandard fonts and font sizes (if you are unsure what standard fonts and font sizes are for manuscript submissions, it's time to do your homework)
* Backward quotation marks throughout the document
There may be other egregious errors involved that are not listed here, but you get the point. Any proper document or manuscript must have a minimum of readability and formatting. If your work ignores such basic conventions, then you have corrections to make before you have any business submitting your work to anyone in the publishing industry.
Once you take the time to get your manuscript into proper form, you may then resubmit your manuscript to us for editing or proofreading. If you prefer, you may choose to keep your manuscript as-is or in barely readable form and find someone else who will take the time to muddle through and render it somewhat readable.
We will no longer ask our team of professional editors and proofreaders to wade through thousands of words and hundreds of pages of narrative and dialogue that is barely decipherable or understandable. To submit work in such a manner shows a lack of care and respect for any editor, agent, or publisher.
An essential part of writing professionally is learning the basics of submitting a manuscript for review and revision. If authors cannot or will not take the time to make these changes, we cannot and will not spend our time and energy correcting and improving their unreadable work.
Regards,
Bev Sninchak
Abraxas Writing & Editing Services
nocturnaleditor@gmail.com
Saturday, August 29, 2015
Question re: different writing style
Received this question in my e-mail, via LinkedIn.
Here's the question and my answer:
Dear Bev,
Hope all is well.
Here's the question and my answer:
Dear Bev,
Hope all is well.
I noticed on your profile that you have been a journalist for some time now. I am curious to know how you got into it? Your writing style is quite different to other journalists I have come across.
Look forward to hearing from you.
My Best,
Shan
Shan White, owner
Women's Peak Performance Coaching
"Create The Life You See, When You Close Your Eyes and Dream"
www.WomensPeakPerformanceCoaching.com
(719) 388-8758
=======
Hi, Shan!
Look forward to hearing from you.
My Best,
Shan
Shan White, owner
Women's Peak Performance Coaching
"Create The Life You See, When You Close Your Eyes and Dream"
www.WomensPeakPerformanceCoaching.com
(719) 388-8758
=======
Hi, Shan!
Good to hear from you.
I transferred into journalism class in 9th grade, as suggested by my teacher, Mr. Martinez, because he thought I was too advanced for regular English class. From there, I worked on the middle school and high school newspapers, eventually becoming editor-in-chief of The Gladitorial by senior year.
At the age of 17, I was a fledgling reporter for the Colorado Springs Sun. It was my first paid position as a writer, earning me $20 per published article. My editor was Mary Mashburn. Unfortunately, that newspaper is defunct. I still have clips, though!
After graduating high school in the top 10% of my class, I was awarded five scholarships to Phillips University in Enid, Oklahoma, where I joined the Haymaker newspaper staff for a while. While there, I majored in Mass Communication & Psychology.
In 1985, I took time off from college for marriage and children. Eventually, I went back to college and attended the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. I majored in Applied Communication & Philosophy, with an emphasis on East-West religions. I also completed an independent study of death & dying in pagan societies.
Over the years, I continued to freelance and published several e-zines, including Scribe & Quill, which I edited and published for 15 years. I also published other e-zines, including Inscriptions, Scribes of the Goddess, and Pen & Pentacle.
In 1991, I had my first paid magazine article published in Housewife-Writers' Forum. I continued to freelance part-time until I was able to leave my municipal government job in 1997 to become a full-time freelance writer. Since then, I've had hundreds of pieces published, both short and long, in print magazines as well as online publications.
So, yes, I've been a professional scribe for 18 years now, but I wrote my first story in the 6th grade. My teacher told me I wrote well and that I should become a writer. I took her advice :-) As of now, I've written more non-fiction/journalistic pieces than anything else, by far.
Long explanation, but this is what my career has been like over the years. It's how I got from there to where I am now. An unconventional route, for sure!
While it's true my writing style isn't like many others, I wouldn't have it any other way. Not sure if I could change it now! *grin*
Thanks for asking this question! It was fun to give it some thought and answer it.
How are you doing?
Have a great weekend!
Bev :-)
I transferred into journalism class in 9th grade, as suggested by my teacher, Mr. Martinez, because he thought I was too advanced for regular English class. From there, I worked on the middle school and high school newspapers, eventually becoming editor-in-chief of The Gladitorial by senior year.
At the age of 17, I was a fledgling reporter for the Colorado Springs Sun. It was my first paid position as a writer, earning me $20 per published article. My editor was Mary Mashburn. Unfortunately, that newspaper is defunct. I still have clips, though!
After graduating high school in the top 10% of my class, I was awarded five scholarships to Phillips University in Enid, Oklahoma, where I joined the Haymaker newspaper staff for a while. While there, I majored in Mass Communication & Psychology.
In 1985, I took time off from college for marriage and children. Eventually, I went back to college and attended the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. I majored in Applied Communication & Philosophy, with an emphasis on East-West religions. I also completed an independent study of death & dying in pagan societies.
Over the years, I continued to freelance and published several e-zines, including Scribe & Quill, which I edited and published for 15 years. I also published other e-zines, including Inscriptions, Scribes of the Goddess, and Pen & Pentacle.
In 1991, I had my first paid magazine article published in Housewife-Writers' Forum. I continued to freelance part-time until I was able to leave my municipal government job in 1997 to become a full-time freelance writer. Since then, I've had hundreds of pieces published, both short and long, in print magazines as well as online publications.
So, yes, I've been a professional scribe for 18 years now, but I wrote my first story in the 6th grade. My teacher told me I wrote well and that I should become a writer. I took her advice :-) As of now, I've written more non-fiction/journalistic pieces than anything else, by far.
Long explanation, but this is what my career has been like over the years. It's how I got from there to where I am now. An unconventional route, for sure!
While it's true my writing style isn't like many others, I wouldn't have it any other way. Not sure if I could change it now! *grin*
Thanks for asking this question! It was fun to give it some thought and answer it.
How are you doing?
Have a great weekend!
Bev :-)
Friday, August 28, 2015
[Writing Contest] Dark of Night short story contest
)0( Triple Crow Publishing )0( presents the Dark of Night short story contest
============================================
Entries open through midnight EDT, September 30, 2015.
This will be the first in a series of themed writing contests sponsored by
)0( Triple Crow Publishing )0(.
All writers, published and unpublished, are welcome to enter.
TCP’s favorite time of year is almost here! Halloween/Samhain is approaching, when the veil between the living and the dead is thinnest. Naturally, it’s the perfect time to tell creepy tales designed to send shivers down our spines.
Are you up to the task? Enter today and find out!
Participation fee: $3
What we’re looking for in the winning entry:
Weave a bone-chilling tale we’ll remember. Make your tale short, original, and scary. Get inside our heads and terrify us as best you can!
We prefer intense, maddening psychological scares to senseless blood spatter and gore. If your story includes violence, it must have a purpose beyond shocking your readers.
Slither into our minds and terrify us enough to cause sleepless nights and life-altering nightmares – all within a 2,000-word limit. If you do all of these things, and do them well, you could emerge a winner.
PRIZES:
1st place - $35 Amazon gift card & publication in TCP’s new quarterly publication, From the Crow’s Nest
In addition, the winning entry will be featured in TCP’s first annual short story anthology, due for release the first quarter of 2016.
2nd place - $25 Amazon gift card & publication in TCP’s new quarterly publication, From the Crow’s Nest
3rd place - $15 Amazon gift card & publication in TCP’s new quarterly publication, From the Crow’s Nest
Submit your entry by September 30th to triplecrowpublishing@gmail.com with CONTEST ENTRY in the subject line. Please paste your short story directly into the body of your email. PLEASE DO NOT SEND ATTACHMENTS.
Send your $3 participation fee via PayPal (http://www.paypal.com) to triplecrowpublishing@gmail.com
(You DO NOT have to have PayPal to complete this step.)
When you send your participation fee, please add your name and your story’s title in the payment notes section. If you are paying the fee for someone else, provide the entrant’s name and story title so we will know which entry matches your fee.
Note: Your short story entry is NOT valid until we have received both your story AND your fee. Stories not accompanied with paid entry fees will be disqualified and unread.
RULES:
* Entries must be double-spaced and in Arial or Times New Roman 12-point font
* Entries must include your full, legal name. If you have a pen name, indicate your preferred author name. Also include your mailing address and your preferred email address.
* Entries may be previously published; however, you must have permission to resell/reprint your story. TCP only asks for one-time rights to publish your story.
* No entries over 2,000 words
* Plagiarism will not be tolerated. You must submit your OWN original work
* Judges’ decisions are final
* TCP is not responsible for late, lost, or misdirected email entries
* Entry fees are non-refundable
Please note: failure to follow contest rules may disqualify your entry.
By participating in this contest, you affirm you have read these rules and agree to abide by them.
This short story contest is not associated with or endorsed by Google+, Facebook, Twitter, or any other social media platform.
Have additional questions? Email triplecrowpublishing@gmail.com with CONTEST QUESTION in the subject line.
Best of luck!
============================================
Entries open through midnight EDT, September 30, 2015.
This will be the first in a series of themed writing contests sponsored by
)0( Triple Crow Publishing )0(.
All writers, published and unpublished, are welcome to enter.
TCP’s favorite time of year is almost here! Halloween/Samhain is approaching, when the veil between the living and the dead is thinnest. Naturally, it’s the perfect time to tell creepy tales designed to send shivers down our spines.
Are you up to the task? Enter today and find out!
Participation fee: $3
What we’re looking for in the winning entry:
Weave a bone-chilling tale we’ll remember. Make your tale short, original, and scary. Get inside our heads and terrify us as best you can!
We prefer intense, maddening psychological scares to senseless blood spatter and gore. If your story includes violence, it must have a purpose beyond shocking your readers.
Slither into our minds and terrify us enough to cause sleepless nights and life-altering nightmares – all within a 2,000-word limit. If you do all of these things, and do them well, you could emerge a winner.
PRIZES:
1st place - $35 Amazon gift card & publication in TCP’s new quarterly publication, From the Crow’s Nest
In addition, the winning entry will be featured in TCP’s first annual short story anthology, due for release the first quarter of 2016.
2nd place - $25 Amazon gift card & publication in TCP’s new quarterly publication, From the Crow’s Nest
3rd place - $15 Amazon gift card & publication in TCP’s new quarterly publication, From the Crow’s Nest
Submit your entry by September 30th to triplecrowpublishing@gmail.com with CONTEST ENTRY in the subject line. Please paste your short story directly into the body of your email. PLEASE DO NOT SEND ATTACHMENTS.
Send your $3 participation fee via PayPal (http://www.paypal.com) to triplecrowpublishing@gmail.com
(You DO NOT have to have PayPal to complete this step.)
When you send your participation fee, please add your name and your story’s title in the payment notes section. If you are paying the fee for someone else, provide the entrant’s name and story title so we will know which entry matches your fee.
Note: Your short story entry is NOT valid until we have received both your story AND your fee. Stories not accompanied with paid entry fees will be disqualified and unread.
RULES:
* Entries must be double-spaced and in Arial or Times New Roman 12-point font
* Entries must include your full, legal name. If you have a pen name, indicate your preferred author name. Also include your mailing address and your preferred email address.
* Entries may be previously published; however, you must have permission to resell/reprint your story. TCP only asks for one-time rights to publish your story.
* No entries over 2,000 words
* Plagiarism will not be tolerated. You must submit your OWN original work
* Judges’ decisions are final
* TCP is not responsible for late, lost, or misdirected email entries
* Entry fees are non-refundable
Please note: failure to follow contest rules may disqualify your entry.
By participating in this contest, you affirm you have read these rules and agree to abide by them.
This short story contest is not associated with or endorsed by Google+, Facebook, Twitter, or any other social media platform.
Have additional questions? Email triplecrowpublishing@gmail.com with CONTEST QUESTION in the subject line.
Best of luck!
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
[Genealogy] Connecting with another cousin
Just made contact with a 3rd or 4th cousin on my birth mother's side, thanks to 23andme. His 7th great-grandfather was Ellis Hughes, who came from Wales. He is also related to the Rays, as I am.
My great-grandmother, Lucy Anetta Ray, is related to William S. Ray. My great-grandmother was Tuckahoe Cherokee, according to Norma Ellis, the family historian/genealogist.
Need to pull out the info my brother, Jan, sent to me years ago as a birthday gift (it was the most important birthday gift anyone's ever given me--I'm so appreciative of him doing that!). Can't remember off the top of my head and haven't memorized nine generations of info on that side of the family, lol. But I'll check into it over the next few days when I get more time.
Edward (the cousin I connected with) has done some technical writing, but said it didn't come easy to him. He doesn't know anyone else in the family who writes. However, my birth mother, Fay, used to write song lyrics and performed/sang when she was younger.
Malcolm Gladwell (bestselling author of The Tipping Point, Outliers, and other books) is a DNA relative along my birth father's (paternal) line. So there's at least one writer/author from that side of the family tree.
I believe a propensity for writing, painting, music, and other types of creativity/artistry may have a genetic component. I'd like to see if that holds true for either side of my family tree. My son works as a technical writer and has a BFA in Dramatic Writing. My daughter is also a natural scribe, though hardly anyone knows that, save for me, Paul, & Jon.
My great-grandmother, Lucy Anetta Ray, is related to William S. Ray. My great-grandmother was Tuckahoe Cherokee, according to Norma Ellis, the family historian/genealogist.
Need to pull out the info my brother, Jan, sent to me years ago as a birthday gift (it was the most important birthday gift anyone's ever given me--I'm so appreciative of him doing that!). Can't remember off the top of my head and haven't memorized nine generations of info on that side of the family, lol. But I'll check into it over the next few days when I get more time.
Edward (the cousin I connected with) has done some technical writing, but said it didn't come easy to him. He doesn't know anyone else in the family who writes. However, my birth mother, Fay, used to write song lyrics and performed/sang when she was younger.
Malcolm Gladwell (bestselling author of The Tipping Point, Outliers, and other books) is a DNA relative along my birth father's (paternal) line. So there's at least one writer/author from that side of the family tree.
I believe a propensity for writing, painting, music, and other types of creativity/artistry may have a genetic component. I'd like to see if that holds true for either side of my family tree. My son works as a technical writer and has a BFA in Dramatic Writing. My daughter is also a natural scribe, though hardly anyone knows that, save for me, Paul, & Jon.
Friday, August 21, 2015
Stop by and 'like' my author page. Have your own page or group? I'll return the favor!
Below is the link to my author page on FB. I often post things on there that you won't see here. Posts are usually about writing, editing, reading, creativity, and positivity.
If you haven't liked my page yet, please do. Much gratitude for your support ;-)
Have a page or group of your own? Post your link in the comment section below and I will return the favor.
http://www.facebook.com/Bev.Walton.Porter
If you haven't liked my page yet, please do. Much gratitude for your support ;-)
Have a page or group of your own? Post your link in the comment section below and I will return the favor.
http://www.facebook.com/Bev.Walton.Porter
Wednesday, July 29, 2015
TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter -- my contribution to the Twitter trend
#TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter is trending on Twitter. All of the tweets from thousands of writers sound familiar to me.
When I first started working from home as a writer, people would send their kids over for me to babysit without asking. That pissed me off.
First of all, I have two grown kids, but I'm not the type of person to ask to babysit. Second, when my kids were small, I would've never dreamed of dropping off my kids at another person's house without asking permission first. But that's just me wink emoticon
My contribution to the Twitter trend:
"Since you're not doing anything and you're home all day, can you watch my kids / go out to lunch / run an errand for me / do some research for me since I don't have time / make some phone calls for me, et al?"
#TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter
Um...NO. I won't do any of those things.
Where did you get the idea that MY time is less valuable than yours and that, since I work from home, I must not have enough of my own projects to keep busy? Yes, I primarily work overnight (by choice), but that doesn't mean that I need you to fill my time during the day.
Questions such as those above are disrespectful and make assumptions about writers and what they do for a living. It's not a hobby. It's been my CAREER since 1997!
When I first started working from home as a writer, people would send their kids over for me to babysit without asking. That pissed me off.
First of all, I have two grown kids, but I'm not the type of person to ask to babysit. Second, when my kids were small, I would've never dreamed of dropping off my kids at another person's house without asking permission first. But that's just me wink emoticon
My contribution to the Twitter trend:
"Since you're not doing anything and you're home all day, can you watch my kids / go out to lunch / run an errand for me / do some research for me since I don't have time / make some phone calls for me, et al?"
#TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter
Um...NO. I won't do any of those things.
Where did you get the idea that MY time is less valuable than yours and that, since I work from home, I must not have enough of my own projects to keep busy? Yes, I primarily work overnight (by choice), but that doesn't mean that I need you to fill my time during the day.
Questions such as those above are disrespectful and make assumptions about writers and what they do for a living. It's not a hobby. It's been my CAREER since 1997!
Monday, July 27, 2015
What are your favorite tunes for writing & editing?
Added more to my Writing & Editing playlist. If you have any song recommendations for me, let me know. To get an idea of the kind of tunes I prefer for this specific list, go check it out. If you're on Spotify, follow me and I'll return the favor.
Writing & Editing Music
Writing & Editing Music
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
Writing for the right reasons, and the wrong ones
I'm going to be honest here: I'd rather work on my OWN crappy writing than someone else's crappy writing. Mainly because they never appreciate it. I have no illusions -- I know my writing isn't perfect and never will be.
However, some people who haven't written anything since high school and who don't give a whit about books or literature think they're going to pick up a pen and turn out the next bestseller. They can't be bothered to read, but they somehow believe that they are Next Big Thing.
The worst part? They'll tell you how great they are and how their work overshadows that of Stephen King or J.K. Rowling. Yeah...highly unlikely. And even if you *think* that, it's gauche to tell other people.
Unlike many others who believe they're above everyone else, I'm well aware that there's always room for improvement, no matter who you are. Although I've been a professional writer for 18 years and had hundreds of short pieces and articles published and several books published (through traditional publishers, mind you), I will NEVER get to the point where I think my crap doesn't stink. I will also never proclaim to know every single thing about writing. I don't. Nobody does! Not even famous authors. Writing is about the journey, NOT the destination. It's about learning and discovery.
A writer writes. However, there's a difference between a person who would write even if they were a millionaire (because they are DRIVEN to) and a person who doesn't give a shit about the craft and beauty of writing. Such a person only wants to try and earn a bunch of money from throwing their book up on Kindle or Smashwords for the sole purpose of cash. They couldn't care less about readers or anything else. These people know nothing about the publishing industry and are only writing in hopes of making a quick buck. It's obscene and distasteful, at least to me.
So yeah, I prefer to work on my own writing -- even when it's crappy and isn't the best thing in the world. The time is much better spent than dealing with thankless jerks who don't care anything about writing or literature. Hey, they know everything anyway, so let them have at it while the rest of us spend time working on our stuff. The rest of us have lots to learn, and we aren't afraid to admit it. Oh, and shove them a piece of humble pie before you shut the door in their faces. Goodness knows they need it.
However, some people who haven't written anything since high school and who don't give a whit about books or literature think they're going to pick up a pen and turn out the next bestseller. They can't be bothered to read, but they somehow believe that they are Next Big Thing.
The worst part? They'll tell you how great they are and how their work overshadows that of Stephen King or J.K. Rowling. Yeah...highly unlikely. And even if you *think* that, it's gauche to tell other people.
Unlike many others who believe they're above everyone else, I'm well aware that there's always room for improvement, no matter who you are. Although I've been a professional writer for 18 years and had hundreds of short pieces and articles published and several books published (through traditional publishers, mind you), I will NEVER get to the point where I think my crap doesn't stink. I will also never proclaim to know every single thing about writing. I don't. Nobody does! Not even famous authors. Writing is about the journey, NOT the destination. It's about learning and discovery.
A writer writes. However, there's a difference between a person who would write even if they were a millionaire (because they are DRIVEN to) and a person who doesn't give a shit about the craft and beauty of writing. Such a person only wants to try and earn a bunch of money from throwing their book up on Kindle or Smashwords for the sole purpose of cash. They couldn't care less about readers or anything else. These people know nothing about the publishing industry and are only writing in hopes of making a quick buck. It's obscene and distasteful, at least to me.
So yeah, I prefer to work on my own writing -- even when it's crappy and isn't the best thing in the world. The time is much better spent than dealing with thankless jerks who don't care anything about writing or literature. Hey, they know everything anyway, so let them have at it while the rest of us spend time working on our stuff. The rest of us have lots to learn, and we aren't afraid to admit it. Oh, and shove them a piece of humble pie before you shut the door in their faces. Goodness knows they need it.
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
TODAY: Celebrating my 18-year anniversary as a FT freelance writer, copy editor, and writing instructor
Eighteen years ago, I quit my traditional job at the City of Enid (Oklahoma) to become a professional freelance writer, copy editor, and writing instructor. It's been an interesting ride, but I wouldn't have it any other way!
My first book editing client was Howie Olsen, who was then living in Salem, MA. We still keep in touch.
My first book editing client was Howie Olsen, who was then living in Salem, MA. We still keep in touch.
Monday, May 18, 2015
On retraining myself, and others
This is long, but it addresses some of you. Therefore, this is why it's not only posted on my blogs, but on Facebook as well. If the shoe fits, wear it. If it doesn't, don't worry about it. Savvy?:
Ever feel like you're shouting into the void and nobody is hearing you? Of, if they are hearing you, they aren't listening? I feel that way much of the time. Not with every person, but with most.
Until I lose my shit, hardly anybody takes me seriously or listens, and that's a big pet peeve of mine. It's unnecessary to become a volcano and erupt. Much easier to listen, understand, and try to do something about things BEFORE the lava flows, right?
I don't like to erupt. It's not pretty, trust me. You've seen me upset on here, but you've NEVER seen me erupt (well, save for maybe a few of you). It's not healthy for anybody involved, including me, and it leaves wounds and scars afterward. But alas, I AM human and I can only take so much.
If you need or want things from me, I ask that you be respectful and considerate of me in return -- that goes for family, friends, FB acquaintances, and strangers. That includes impositions on my time, energy, and attention. Because, just like yours, it's precious. It's more precious than money, in fact. I put the value on my time and attention, and from here on, it's gonna be high.
Unless you put me on retainer 24/7, I'll respond when it's convenient for me (this applies to personal communication, not professional communication). Your emergency is not automatically my emergency, either. Not my circus, not my monkeys. Tired of putting myself in crisis mode over other people's crises.
Also, my immediate family comes first -- always. Everybody else stands in line. And on down the line...you get the drift. Believe me, I have more than enough to juggle here on the home front. Husband and children first, then comes my career. Everything else is a lower priority than those two things. It has to be that way.
For most of my life, I've allowed others to eat up my time, energy, and attention because I felt I needed to always please them or I needed to bow to their whims. No longer, so get used to it. I'm 50 and I have no idea how much time I'll be on this plane of existence. I no longer have time to say yes to everything or try and bend myself to the whims or wishes of others.
It's time for me now. It's time for my dreams, my goals, my ambitions. And, considering the time I've spent giving to others, sacrificing for others, and putting myself at risk to shield others from problems, I think I damn well deserve to draw some boundaries. If I were a man, I wouldn't have to ask or beg for this. I'd do it, and I'd do it without emotion.
As a woman, society has raised me to think that I need to ask, beg, or justify time for myself. Well, I won't do it. I'm taking it. People can either like and understand it or not. That's not my issue, it's theirs. Men typically don't have to explain such things, but women are selfish if they're not there for everybody all the time or waiting in the wings to nurture, support, or encourage everybody else on the fucking planet.
Yes, I do care about all of you. But friends and family, it's time for me. I'm going to train myself to stop chasing after people, to stop trying to please everybody every single minute of the day, and to stop doing things that others can (and should) do for themselves. I've said this before and gotten off track, so this is a reaffirmation of what I MUST do in order to maintain whatever sanity I have left. This is a reminder for both me and all of you.
There's more, but you can fill in the blanks. If not, Google is your friend. Speaking of which, I will no longer do research for anybody, either. If you're hooked up to the Internet, you can use the same method I do: type in Google, enter your inquiry into the search box, etc. My time is as precious as yours, after all. Or, find experts and ask them. There's a website for that as well.
If you have a book manuscript, I do not have time to read it. Are you kidding? With editing and reading for pleasure, when do I have time to read other manuscripts? Same with short stories. I cannot tell you if it's good enough to be published. That's up to an agent, editor, or publisher. So submit it and you'll find out. That's what I had to do (and still have to do).
Also, don't ask to give me an idea so I can write a book and split the royalties with you. Really? Ideas are a dime a dozen, and I have more in my head than I could EVER put on paper. When you ask a writer that, you're asking THEM to do all the work so you can reap the benefits of the results. Not cool. The answer is no. Write it yourself or pay a ghostwriter (and they aren't cheap).
I'm not being harsh; I'm being upfront about things. If you want feedback, a critique of your work, and one-on-one attention, I have writing and editing courses for $20 to $25 per week. I'm a cheap date, too! And if you don't think I'm worth $20 a week, I don't have time to discuss this with you anymore. Because, you see, I am worth that -- and a lot more.
I'm tired of devaluing myself for others. After 18 years as a professional in the publishing industry, I sure as hell hope you think my time is worth that small amount. You'd spend a lot more on one dinner and I'll give you more value for that price. I support my family with my work, and the utility company doesn't take IOUs (I wish they did!) So please, don't put me in an uncomfortable position by asking me to things without payment or an equal barter in return.
In general, it's my belief that people do not truly care about events or situations unless they're directly affected. That's true for me at times as well, because I'm human. I have a ton of flaws myself, believe me.
Contrary to popular belief, I'm much more critical of myself that anybody else. I've gotten better over the years, but I still struggle with self-loathing in many ways. It's hard to love oneself, but it's become clear that if I don't learn that, I'm destined to destroy myself. I'm loving myself by redrawing boundaries and reasserting them to me, and to all of you.
Anyway, enough with that. Having spoken my piece, the matter is resolved. Now, let's see what trouble I can get into for the rest of the day *evil laugh*
I'm not being harsh; I'm being upfront about things. If you want feedback, a critique of your work, and one-on-one attention, I have writing and editing courses for $20 to $25 per week. I'm a cheap date, too! And if you don't think I'm worth $20 a week, I don't have time to discuss this with you anymore. Because, you see, I am worth that -- and a lot more.
I'm tired of devaluing myself for others. After 18 years as a professional in the publishing industry, I sure as hell hope you think my time is worth that small amount. You'd spend a lot more on one dinner and I'll give you more value for that price. I support my family with my work, and the utility company doesn't take IOUs (I wish they did!) So please, don't put me in an uncomfortable position by asking me to things without payment or an equal barter in return.
In general, it's my belief that people do not truly care about events or situations unless they're directly affected. That's true for me at times as well, because I'm human. I have a ton of flaws myself, believe me.
Contrary to popular belief, I'm much more critical of myself that anybody else. I've gotten better over the years, but I still struggle with self-loathing in many ways. It's hard to love oneself, but it's become clear that if I don't learn that, I'm destined to destroy myself. I'm loving myself by redrawing boundaries and reasserting them to me, and to all of you.
Anyway, enough with that. Having spoken my piece, the matter is resolved. Now, let's see what trouble I can get into for the rest of the day *evil laugh*
Monday, April 27, 2015
Grab your copy of HIDDEN FIRE, now available at my online Etsy shop!
The ebook version of Hidden Fire, a contemporary romance I wrote under my pen name Star Ferris, is now available in my online Etsy shop, Nocturnal Divination.
Originally published by Whiskey Creek Press (WCP) in 2009, I now own the rights and it's been republished under the )0( Triple Crow Publishing )0( imprint.
Hidden Fire was a finalist in the Fiction from the Heartland contest at the Mid-America Romance Authors (MARA) conference in Kansas City, MO. It went on to sell to a traditional publisher and was released in June 2009.
Based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, this book is full of suspense, intrigue, family secrets, and old-fashioned romance. There's a headstrong heroine and a hunky hero -- and sizzling sex, too! ;-)
To purchase a copy (only $1.99) and immediately download the ebook at my Etsy shop, visit https://www.etsy.com/shop/NocturnalDivination
Friday, April 24, 2015
Freelancing for nearly eighteen years -- already?
Just realized that, in three weeks, I will celebrate 18 (yes, that's EIGHTEEN) years as a freelance writer, editor, and writing instructor. In May 1997, I left my job in municipal government, where I worked in utility billing AND the police department, to set out on my own.
One of the best perks of freelancing is that I am able to set my own schedule. That made it easy for me to attend my kids' school and extracurricular events. BIG plus. I think it made a difference in their lives (at least I hope it did).
It has NOT been easy. I wouldn't recommend it for most people, in fact. However, it's been rewarding, surprising, and unpredictable (in good ways and bad -- but mostly good!)
Hardest job you'll ever love, methinks. Where does the time go?!
One of the best perks of freelancing is that I am able to set my own schedule. That made it easy for me to attend my kids' school and extracurricular events. BIG plus. I think it made a difference in their lives (at least I hope it did).
It has NOT been easy. I wouldn't recommend it for most people, in fact. However, it's been rewarding, surprising, and unpredictable (in good ways and bad -- but mostly good!)
Hardest job you'll ever love, methinks. Where does the time go?!
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
[Limited time offer] Get 10% off my online professional writing and editing courses
Nearing 100 likes on my FB page for Abraxas Professional Writing Courses. If you haven't liked my page, please stop by and do so at https://www.facebook.com/Abraxas.Writing.Courses
I've been teaching online courses since 1997 and many of my students have gone on to become freelance writers and published authors. I love to help people make their dreams come true ;-)
To show my appreciation, for a limited time I'm offering 10% off any of my courses. Just e-mail me at scribequill -at- gmail.com with WRITING COURSES in the subject line of the message. Let me know which featured online professional writing/editing course you're interested in:
* Professional Freelance Writing - 4 weeks-$80 or $20 per week
* Creativity 101: Tapping the Muse Within - 4weeks - $80 or $20 per week
* Marketing/PR for Writers - 4 weeks - $80 or $20 per week
* How to Write, Sell, and Market Your Nonfiction Book - 4 weeks - $100 or $25 per week
* Editing 101 - 4 weeks - $100 or $25 per week
When you e-mail me, I'll give you a special link to sign up and enroll in the course of your choosing at a 10% discount. You can begin right away! If you have questions, you can ask me those as well.
I've been teaching online courses since 1997 and many of my students have gone on to become freelance writers and published authors. I love to help people make their dreams come true ;-)
To show my appreciation, for a limited time I'm offering 10% off any of my courses. Just e-mail me at scribequill -at- gmail.com with WRITING COURSES in the subject line of the message. Let me know which featured online professional writing/editing course you're interested in:
* Professional Freelance Writing - 4 weeks-$80 or $20 per week
* Creativity 101: Tapping the Muse Within - 4weeks - $80 or $20 per week
* Marketing/PR for Writers - 4 weeks - $80 or $20 per week
* How to Write, Sell, and Market Your Nonfiction Book - 4 weeks - $100 or $25 per week
* Editing 101 - 4 weeks - $100 or $25 per week
When you e-mail me, I'll give you a special link to sign up and enroll in the course of your choosing at a 10% discount. You can begin right away! If you have questions, you can ask me those as well.
Thanks for your attention ;-)
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