From A Writer's POV
Voted Magazine of the Year by AAMBC Literary Awards

By   Sun, Nov 01, 2009

I spoke to several authors and business owners over the past few weeks to get their thoughts on why so many authors decide to become business owners after publishing their book. If you notice, there are a lot of authors that become publishers, editors, reviewers etc. They end up going into business for themselves. These authors end up publising their own book and providing the service they were looking for and starting their own company.

There are many reason why authors take this route. I am a published author and I now provide a literary service. My reason is to give back what I couldn't find as an author. Some people do it because they want to run their own business. Some people do it because they are leaders and have always dreamed to give back. View below some responses to why authors become business owners.

Veola Carter

Business: The L.U.C.K.Y. {Learning through an Unselfish Commitment to Kids & Youth}

Been in business since: June 2004

"I believe, that many authors are going into the business of providing a literary service because.... the importance of our country and world's fight against the childhood and youthful 'illiteracy war' can and should NEVER be underestimated."

Sharisma K. Smith

Business: Faithful Foundations-My debut work/publishing soon!

Been in Business since: January 2009

"Because authors have realized their talent has profitable benefits, not only monetarily but also for self-gratification purposes as well as outsourcing literary knowledge to others.-Sharing is Caring!"

Going into business for yourself is always the next step for authors. I don't know a published author that doesn't take the next step of getting into the literary field.

To be in this field, your can't be in it for the money. You can't wake up everyday and say I need to do this for the money. Anyone who is an author first has a passion. We love to write, we got some things to take and we are dedicated. No writer writes for the money. They write because they love it. You must then have a giving heart. You have to want to give back; help people get to the next level in their career.

If you are looking to get started in business after publishing your book my advice is to research your field. There are so many people that go into business with their eyes wide shut. Stay focused on what your goal is. Also, find a mentor. Find someone that can help you get into the business, someone who knows what their talking about.

I went into business because I wanted to give back. I wanted to give something to those that love to write just as much as I do. At the end of the day, my goal is to help and give back. I have so much knowledge. Why hold it in?

As a business owner that provides a literary service and still works as a published author, ask yourself, what do you do it for?

By   Sun, Nov 01, 2009

First, is the fact that if the story is not believable to you, it will not be to the reader. It is fine to come up with plot, setting, characters, and such, but if it does not ring true, your audience will call you on it. If you are a new writer, you will most likely be rejected if you try to submit your manuscript.

Make sure you check your spelling, punctuation, and grammar. It cannot be stressed enough, DO NOT rely on spell check and grammar check in word processing programs. If you are weak in this area, find a class and learn how to punctuate and learn your grammar.

Second is dialogue. If your characters are of a certain age and they use language that does not fit the age, your characters are not believable and the reader will put down the story and most likely not pick up anything else you might right. If you are writing for yourself and never want to be published, wrong dialogue is probably ok, NOT! If you are going to write something, make it the best you can every time you put words on paper.

Third is, make sure you use the right word. As Mark Twain said, “The difference between the almost right word & the right word is really a large matter--it's the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning.” I could not agree more. Spend the money and get a good dictionary and thesaurus. Do not let them sit on the shelf collecting dust; USE THEM!

Ray Bradbury mentioned in a lecture before Southwest Manuscriptors the fourth and possibly the most important tip is; “READ!” Read the classics, read everything you can get your hands on; read, read, read. Only by reading published books, can you get some idea of what works and what does not. Especially if you have say, Mysteries in mind, read various authors in the genre.

Fifth, if you decide to edit your own work, set it aside for a minimum of a week. When you come back to it, come with a blue pencil. Take that blue pencil and take out the irrelevant junk. Make sure the meaning of what you want to say is clear. Does what you read while editing move the story along? Are your characters believable? Are they fully fleshed out? There is more, but you get the idea.

Robert Medak
Freelance Writer/Editor
Fulfilling Your Writing Needs
http://www.stormywriter.com

By   Sun, Nov 01, 2009

Every business owner has a life outside of work. Before I got to know the business owner, I asked Kat to tell me who she was outside of work and her support system."Outside of work, I work even more. (she laughs) My grandmother always told me that the mind is the Devil’s workshop. I sort of feel guilty if I am not doing something productive. I get a lot of work done, and it feels great. I chill when I can and travel a great deal. I love the sunny coasts and the ocean.  I also have become very handy around the house with repairs and renovations. Other than that cooking and sewing are enjoyable for me and my friends who love to eat. I am from a family of 12 siblings. I am the 8^th and taller than all my 7 brothers. They hate that. LOL We laugh a lot, enjoy good food ( New Orleans cuisine), drinking, music and dance. I have surrounded myself with a great group of individuals who are positive and supportive. I am on the board of the Writers’ Guild of Texas and a member of the Writers Block, Inc. and try to associate with like-minded individuals. "

As I said before, Kat is the owner of TomKat Productions. Her business Manufactures games and publishes books. Kat told us how she got into the business. "I  have the gift of gab and after leaving my nationally syndicated morning radio show with ABC Radio Networks, Inc., I felt the time had come for me to do what I love, which is to write. I read a quote that I love by C Rearie – “When Passion and skill come together you create a masterpiece.”  I began to become MY masterpiece as I create and inspire others. There were several (and still are) stories inside me and that were waiting for the right time to emerge. I have been on a roll ever since I left ABC in 2003." Kat also explains her experience. " I have enjoyed the inspiration given and received from writers and authors all over. I have learned so much and value the time and effort of professionals in this industry. I have broadened my horizons and embraced all aspects of running a business, doing business overseas, securing distributors, self marketing and fulfillment services. I wear many hats in my company and proud to say that I do. And yes, at home I still clean the toilets. (she laughs)"

Inspiration, knowledge and guidance are what she wants her customers to take away from the business. She goes in more depth of what her business provides and what the customers can expect. "I wrote The Naked Author – Exposing the Myths of Publishing after realizing many of the guests on my show had challenges with interviewing well and articulating what their books were about and talking about themselves. I got several questions on how to get published and other industry specific information which lead to me gathering all the knowledge I could and put it in a book to help others.  Anyone I work with hopefully walks away feeling comfortable when faced with signing an agent’s or publisher’s contract, and dealing with the individuals they will come in contact with in the publishing world. Ignorance is not bliss. Knowledge is still very powerful."

So how can people go about getting this service? Kat tells us how. "I recommend that anyone interested in my consulting services buy my book The Naked Author – Exposing the Myths of Publishing and educate themselves on who does what in the publishing industry. This will help arm them with knowledge prior to seeking a publisher, agent or attempting self/independent publishing. The book is $14.95, consultation fees are $75.00 per hour. They can save some cash and invest in the book first and then, if you need more guidance or have more question, contact me via my website www.tomkatproductions.com”

Kat currently has a sale going on at her site for From A Writer's POV members only. Check it out. "From A Writers POV members, I will send a free copy of my e-book Wordcrafting with any purchase of The Naked Author from www.tomkatproductions.com

Wordcrafting, the craft of writing fiction and nonfiction is a toolbox for writers. Simply insert the letters “AWPOV” in the special shipping directions portion of the payment screen."

Be sure and take advantage of this offer!!!

Kat is not only a business owner but has published several authors. View below the details of her books and where to purchase them. "The Naked author – Exposing the Myths of Publishing (1st Edition April 2008) has received some great reviews. Check them out on my blog www.kat-smith.blogspot.com. This book was my gift to the many writers ad potential authors who are seeking publication but not sure of how to get started. I walk the reader through the steps ad explain who does what to help arm them with the knowledge to make the decision that is best for them when deciding whether to go it alone of submit to a publisher and even seeking an agent or public relations professional.

I’m Tall You’re Not – So that makes us even (Nov 2008) is a short book about TALL women. It is a humorous look at a day in the life of a tall woman (i.e. Amazonian Goddess) It is something I wanted to share with the world. What not to say to a tall woman and the challenges with dating and everyday situations. There are lists of successful tall women for inspiration (our first lady Michelle Obama, Models, Athletes, authors, comedians, politicians, etc. ), we span the globe and have varied interests. I also started a social network for tall women called Amazonian Goddess. Check it out at www.amazoniangoddess.ning.com

Shea Butter, the African Secret (2008) is the result of product research into the skin care line for a former client. After learning all there was to know about their new line of products which were Shea Butter based, I figured many other women would love to know the facts about the healing properties of this wonderful moisturizer and main ingredient in chocolate candy.

Wordcrafting – the craft of writing fiction and nonfiction (2008) is co-authored with Ann Fields and is a product of seminars we performed together. It is a toolbox for writers who are learning the basics of the craft of writing.

The Naked Author and I’m Tall You’re Not are also available on www.Amazon.com”

About the author:

Katherine “Kat” Smith is formerly co-host of a four year syndicated morning radio show with ABC Radio Networks, Inc. and has an extensive background from presently holding a position as a Media Specialist for the U. S. Census Bureau to beginning her modeling and acting career at age seventeen. She is a member of The Screen Actors Guild, The Writer’s Block and The Writers Guild of Texas.

In Kat’s career as a writer, she has been published both domestically and internationally and is a publisher, game manufacturer and speaker. She is also the author of The Book Seller’s List, Publishing Step by Step and Love the Vicious Cycle. Most recently, she has released two books - The Naked Author-Exposing the Myths of Publishing, and I’m Tall You’re Not So That Makes Us Even.

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By   Sun, Nov 01, 2009

Inspiration as a writer, comes from all over the place. When talking with Recha, she told me who inspires her to write. She began the interview saying, “My first novel 'Mystery of a Woman' was inspired by a collection of poetry I penned in 1996.  After several unsuccessful attempts to get the poetry published I decided to write a novel and include excerpts of poetry.”

Recha has been writing since she was five. She smiles as I ask how long she’s been writing, then continues to say, “Since the age of five I've been pretending to write and sign autographs.  My love for the spoken word began in church as I recited the work of others.  Two poems in particular that come to mind are William Herbert Brewster's ' I'm Determined To Be Somebody Someday' and Maya Angelou's  'Still I Rise'.  Having to recite their work only sparked my creativity and prompted me to write my own.”

Being an author is a tough job. I know I am a published author and it’s not easy. It takes a lot of support from others. Recha tells me about her support system. “My support system consists of a son and daughter, family and friends.  Each of them has played a special part in my career as an author.  During crunch time my children encourage me with smiles, kisses on the cheek or a simple 'Mom it's going to be fine'.  'Phenomemonal' is the only word I can think of to describe my family and friends.”

The name of Recha’s book is “Table for Three” Recha gave us the details on this book and how it came about. “Table For Three' is a fiction novel that explores the lives of three women with three very different personalities and three lifestyles. You may ask when did their paths cross and how did they manage to become best friends?

Shiquanna Alize Jenkins, A.K.A. Fantasia is an exotic dancer, performs at a local gentleman’s club but prefers private audiences. She has no morals, is alcohol dependant and curses like a sailor.

Yvonne Miller, Certified Public Accountant never married and has no children. She’s a devout Christian waiting on God to deliver her soul mate who she believes to be her minister.

India Rasheed, the earthy spiritualist of the trio, is a full-time student who finally declared a major after ten years. Her self-appointed purpose in life other than persistent unemployment is to make a global impact by spiritually awakening lost souls.

Is Shiquanna happy showcasing her body to pay the rent? Despite hours of Bible study and prayer does Yvonne really have a dark side? Is India as spiritually grounded as she portrays? Other than a weekly girl's night out what is the tie that has bound three apparently different women together as friends for so many years?”

Recha also tells us how she developed her characters and where the story came from. “Developing the characters for 'Table for Three' seemed easy as we all can relate to at least one of them.  'Table for Three' explores the relationship between three girlfriends.  It's real in the fact that no one person knows everything about us only what we choose to reveal about ourselves.”

So what’s next for the author? “I'm very excited about being a contributing author to 'Bedtime Stories 3' an erotic anthology being released in July 2010 by Hollygrove Publishing. “

Recha gives a little advice to other upcoming authors. “Being successful in the business shouldn't be measured by your financial gain but by the lives you touch.  Many people have this false perception that you write a book and overnight you're a millionaire!  Hmmm...?  Well that isn't my testimony.  For me writing is a passion.  I'd rather write than eat a meal.  Now that's serious.”

Yes! Very serious! I asked Recha one more important question. How do you separate being a writer from being you?  She responded, “We never separate...at times I suppress Recha the author/creator but we never separate.”

From A Writer's POV wishes Recha much success with her book!

About the book:

Table For Three' is a fiction novel that explores the lives of three women with three very different personalities and three lifestyles. You may ask when did their paths cross and how did they manage to become best friends?

Shiquanna Alize Jenkins, A.K.A. Fantasia is an exotic dancer, performs at a local gentleman’s club but prefers private audiences. She has no morals, is alcohol dependant and curses like a sailor.

Yvonne Miller, Certified Public Accountant never married and has no children. She’s a devout Christian waiting on God to deliver her soul mate who she believes to be her minister.

India Rasheed, the earthy spiritualist of the trio, is a full-time student who finally declared a major after ten years. Her self-appointed purpose in life other than persistent unemployment is to make a global impact by spiritually awakening lost souls.

Is Shiquanna happy showcasing her body to pay the rent? Despite hours of Bible study and prayer does Yvonne really have a dark side? Is India as spiritually grounded as she portrays? Other than a weekly girl's night out what is the tie that has bound three apparently different women together as friends for so many years?

About the Author:  At the age of five, the gift of a Barbie Doll typewriter from a family friend sparked Recha’s interest in the written word. For hours she’d sit in front of her toy typewriter and peck away occasionally stopping to greet the public and sign autographs. Throughout her childhood and early adulthood she held on to her dream even though career choices lead her in a different direction. In 1996, The Mystery of a Woman was born and manifested as a small collection of poetry. To no avail, and many rejection letters later they were never published. Recha didn’t stop there and asked herself what would make her poetry unique. During a moment of meditation the answer was clear, a novel. In 1997, the collection of poetry became the premise of her first novel. Just like so many aspiring authors she worked tirelessly then packed it all away.

In 2003, the unfortunate news of a job closing inspired Recha to 'think outside of the box.' So she did just that.. With the encouragement and support of two children she unpacked her storage box and breathed new life into her project. Her steps were ordered as God allowed her to make contact with Kimberly Matthews of Kissed Publications, who tirelessly assisted her through several edits finally seeing it through to completion. The rest is a ‘Mystery’.
Recha wants all of her readers to know with God’s divine guidance dreams do come true. So remember the three P’s prayer, persistence and patience. 

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By   Sat, Jul 10, 2010

Follow the blog for announcements and info and become a member: http://openpoetrycafe.wordpress.com/ 

By   Sun, Jun 20, 2010

Are you a reviewer? Looking for a place to display your reviews? From A Writer's POV is extending it's new newsletter the "The Reader's Hot Spot" to reviewers to display their book reviews on our site. The option is free and open to all Book Reviewers. Our newsletter is sent out every Friday and all spots are on a first come first serve bases.

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We will check the Official review link to be sure that your review is official

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By   Sat, Jun 19, 2010

From A Writer’s POV Magazine is looking for Authors and Writers with newsletters. If this is you, we would appreciate it very much if you would add us to your list so we can be in the know about your new releases and publications and schedule you for future interviews and features to help in your personal promotion.

If you are interested, please e-mail us at fromawriterspov@gmail.com  and let us know how to join or simply add our email address yourself so we can be connected. We would love to help you get your new releases exposed! Be sure to add us to your press release list as well so that we can receive your press releases.

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By   Tue, Jun 01, 2010

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By   Mon, Nov 02, 2009

Vote for From A Writer's POV as Magazine of the Year on AAMBC Literary Award. Simply email your nomination to aambcvoting@gmail.com  and put From A Writer's POV magazine in the body of the email. So please vote for my company as magazine of the year! Thanks!

By Dominique Watson   Mon, Feb 01, 2010

I received a question about rejection letters. Here is the question,

How do you stay positive when you receive rejections?

Here is my response

By Dominique Watson   Mon, Oct 19, 2009

I received a question a few weeks ago from Jose Torres. Here is Jose's question.

"I see a lot out there about writing short stories and novels but not much about scripts writing, especially animation. I have a wonderful animated story and it will do excellent in the right hands of a producer, so my question is how do I go about finding an agent to take on this project and find a home for my work?

Thanks,
Jose"

Check out my answer below:

By Dominique Watson   Mon, Nov 02, 2009

What would you do if you woke up one day and found out that your entire life was a lie? Nyree Shaw-Chandler was sitting on top of the world. She had money, looks, and the perfect man, so she thought. Six months into their marriage, she realized the honeymoon was over and the fireworks were beginning to pop off. Her husband wasn't who she thought he was. Her own mother had a closet full of secrets. Her dad was the only one who hadn't let her down, but even his behavior was becoming questionable. When this well-to-do woman's life crumbles right before her, she does what any woman would do under the circumstances...

Purchase this book today:

 

by: Xanthe Jolanda Johnson

Last Laugh, Last Cry opens in the middle of a battle scene. Raquel’s ex –common law husband and son’s father is dragged from the bed and beaten within an inch of his life. The reader cannot fully appreciate the motive behind the action; the only clue provided is, "I mean this bastard used to beat on me because he was the one cheating on me!" Through out their relationship he had cheated on her and at 40 years old, and a host of other "transitions" she had succumb to within her life, she decides to "pay back" the one who caused all of the pain she had endured.

Dominique's Thoughts and Recommendation:

I thought this book was outstanding!!!!!! Kudos to the author Xanthe. She did her thing. Raquel, the main character, goes through her fair share of ups and downs. Not to mention, she has a son to look after. This books represents all the single mother's that just want to be loved, be happy and keep a roof over their child's head. Every woman has her fair share of heartaches and we see exactly how Raquel experiences hers. This book will keep you on your toes wondering, what next. It's not like all the other gritty hardcore books. This books will hit home for so many women, not to mention it has a surprising ending. So go out and support this author!!!!!!

Purchase this book today:

www-lastlaugh-lastcry.com

By   Wed, Jul 21, 2010

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By   Wed, Jul 07, 2010

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By   Thu, Oct 15, 2009

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By   Wed, Mar 03, 2010

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