Category Archives: General

Jan8

Listening To The Inner Muse

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Give your muse time to speak.

Give your muse time to speak.

There is a fact that happens after each New Year’s Eve. The questions start. What will I expect from the New Year? Will I write the best seller? Why isn’t my books selling better? Can I write a new genre? Will I get a good review?

Well, sometimes, you don’t know. You’ve got to step away, and just let it happen. But you just can’t write that good book. Your inner muse has to synthesize it for you. The only way that can happen is time. Give it all time. Walk away, and do something else, and the inner muse will speak.

I’ve been kicking the idea around for a NA Romance. I had several ideas in mind, and they weren’t connecting. I worked on another project for awhile, trusting the inner muse would connect the dots somehow.

Then one morning, I woke from a terrifying dream involving one of my past friends from those good ole’ college days. I woke with the thought, “She didn’t die that way.” Struggling with the horrors I’d been dreaming, I thought, “But what if she did?”

The rest of the day, I went to the mall, mailed a review copy of my book, and tried to get to Office Depot for some ink cartridges. Literally, the images kept replaying through my mind. As I’m walking from one store to another, the dots connected. My real life experiences were drawn up into some powerful ideas until it all spit out as a plot, all while walking from Target to my car. Literally, I had to concentrate to drive, but I didn’t want the muse to stop.

I finished the last errand, headed the car home, and drove directly to my laptop. Getting much written as I could, I started that NA Romance novel. The dots are connecting, and I can see it better. Somehow I trusted the inner muse to start it for me when she was ready. Trust is the biggest first step. It will happen when it’s ready.

Of course, this sucks when you got deadlines. But this is why I have different projects. Switching from one to another seems to unleash some subconscious explosion that will solve the problem when you least expect it. Sometimes that stop to take a moment, or do errands, can make all the difference.

Topic: Listen To Your Inner Muse

Topic: Listen To Your Inner Muse

**This post is part of the monthly
“Indie Life” posts linked on the Indelibles Blog.

The Lost Secret of Dragonfire is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

The Lost Secret of Dragonfire is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

***Tiffany Turner has released her third book, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, in her Crystal Keeper series. She continues to teach fourth graders in California while writing fantasy adventure middle grade novels. She is working on other writing projects in her No Limits Writing practices. She actively plays the Gaelic Harp at Renaissance festivals throughout Northern California.

Dec11

A Look At 2013: Embracing “Why Not?”

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Topic: Ask Yourself "Why Not?"

Topic: Ask Yourself “Why Not?”

Why not? I found myself thinking and saying this to a lot of choices, ideas, and areas of life in 2013. It’s been the drive for my writing this year, and has propelled me into areas I didn’t think possible. So, I’ll start here. The place I didn’t think I would be. Three children’s books published as an Indie Self Published writer. Other romance book projects underway. And several book signings, one book award, and one book blog tour organized. It’s been a hell of a year.
Tiffany Turner at the 2013 Almaden Lake Art and Wine Festival

Tiffany Turner at the 2013 Almaden Lake Art and Wine Festival

I started the journey into 2013 reflecting on my visit to Hobbiton. Little did I know it would take me to “No Limit” writing and tips on how to promote your self published book. I received an honorary mention in the Children’s Category at the 2013 San Francisco Book Festival for The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, my third book released in the Crystal Keeper Chronicles. I managed to get a book signing at a local book store, Art and Wine festival, and reading night for a local school. I’ve definitely taken the local approach in promotion.

Tiffany Turner(middle center) excepting the Honorable Mention Award for Children's Books at the San Francisco Book Festival 2013 for The Lost Secret of Dragonfire.

Tiffany Turner(middle center) excepting the Honorable Mention Award for Children’s Books at the San Francisco Book Festival 2013 for The Lost Secret of Dragonfire.

Plus, I’ve been working on some other genre projects such in NA Romance and a Time Travel Romance novel which my editor answered, “You go girl.” Why was it possible. Because everytime I started to doubt myself I answered, “Why not?”. Really. It works. Whenever you start to hear that little voice of distain or doubt, answer yourself, “Why not?”. I guarantee there will be some pull to resist. But keep saying it, why not? Why shouldn’t you write romance? Why shouldn’t you do an Art and Wine festival? Why shouldn’t you write novelettes?

“I can” doesn’t work for the every present pessimist inside me. “Why not?” turns all my doubts to jelly. I don’t know if it’s a Gen X thing, but something is always trying to find a reason to disable my motivation. I’m constantly finding holes in my balloon of life. The glass is always half filled.

“Why not?” opens the paths inside to the new freedom of “I can”. It changes the negative pathways with a shift to “What is stopping you?”. In the end, you are the biggest block. Don’t wait. Give it a try now. If you’ve wanted to write that novel before you retire, start now. You might have a few under your belt and maybe you can retire early. It’s a great way to end the year. Or start a new one. You won’t be disappointed if you have no disappointment to draw from.

To all of my readers and fans, a very Happy Holiday season and best wishes in 2014! Have a great New Year!

**This post is part of the monthly
“Indie Life” posts linked on the Indelibles Blog.

The Lost Secret of Dragonfire is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

The Lost Secret of Dragonfire is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

***Tiffany Turner has released her third book, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, in her Crystal Keeper series. She continues to teach fourth graders in California while writing fantasy adventure middle grade novels. She is working on other writing projects in her No Limits Writing practices. She actively plays the Gaelic Harp at Renaissance festivals throughout Northern California.

Nov20

Tiffany Turner Book Signing @ Taylor School Reading Night

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The book signing is at Taylor Elementary on Thurs. Nov. 21 at 7pm.

The book signing is at Taylor Elementary on Thurs. Nov. 21 at 7pm.

Tiffany Turner will be reading her new book, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, at Taylor Elementary’s Reading Night on Thurs. Nov. 21 at 6 to 7 p.m. Come visit and shop at the Scholastic Book Store fundraiser and meet Tiffany Turner. All three of her books will be for sale at the bookstore. She’ll also be playing her gaelic harp. Enjoy a fun, filled evening supporting a great school and meeting Mrs. Turner.
Tiffany Turner(middle center) excepting the Honorable Mention Award for Children's Books at the San Francisco Book Festival 2013 for The Lost Secret of Dragonfire.

Tiffany Turner(middle center) excepting the Honorable Mention Award for Children’s Books at the San Francisco Book Festival 2013 for The Lost Secret of Dragonfire.

Taylor Elementary School

410 Sautner Dr.
San Jose, CA 95123

The bookstore is in P-5. Mrs. Turner will be reading her books in the portable next store.

Nov13

Book Signings: Effective Ways to Reach Your Readers

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Topic: A variety of book signings can help you reach the local community.

Topic: A variety of book signings can help you reach the local community.

This year has been busy with a new book release. I’ve been doing everything to promote and get my new book into people’s hands. Which of course, has turned into a lot of lessons on how to do book signings. In the first half of the year, I won an honorable mention in the children’s category at the 2013 San Francisco Book Festival. I did a book signing at a local book store called Book Smart in Morgan Hill, CA.

The second half of the year has been equally busy. I did a book signing at the Almaden Lake Art and Wine Festival, and I’ve planned a reading and book signing at an elementary school called Bertha Taylor Elementary in San Jose.

The Almaden Lake Art and Wine festival on Sept. 15 was a wonderful experience. I sold 33 books. This is a fabulous number for a signing. I utilized Intuit’s credit card reader, and bundled all three of my books at a special festival price of $25. This is pretty much making about $5 profit. But I found bundling all three books sold better. Usually people bought the first book or all three. Plus, it was a treat to meet all the kids. I found out how some school libraries have my book in the area, and even networked for future school evening events.

Tiffany Turner at the 2013 Almaden Lake Art and Wine Festival

Tiffany Turner at the 2013 Almaden Lake Art and Wine Festival

I think the Art and Wine was so successful since so many people bring their children. They are looking for activities for the kids to do, and meeting the author is exciting for parents, grandparents, and the kids. Plus, the local connections can give you future events. I now have a school event in November, and had other schools from PTAs talk to me about an event.

I am now planning a Reading Night book signing on Nov. 21 with a local school. They are tying it with their fundraising Scholastic Book store, and I’ll be reading my new book just like in other book signings. I think it’s a great event to meet more readers, and connect with the local community in my area. I’m finding that selling local is a great way to build a readership, and is a powerful way to start making connections with your readers.

**This post is part of the monthly
“Indie Life” posts linked on the Indelibles Blog.

The Lost Secret of Dragonfire is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

The Lost Secret of Dragonfire is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

***Tiffany Turner has released her third book, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, in her Crystal Keeper series. She continues to teach fourth graders in California while writing fantasy adventure middle grade novels. She is working on other writing projects in her No Limits Writing practices. She actively plays the Gaelic Harp at Renaissance festivals throughout Northern California.

Oct29

Buried: A New Goth Series for When Everyday Is Halloween

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Buried by Linda Joy Singleton: A Goth Girl Mystery

Buried by Linda Joy Singleton: A Goth Girl Mystery

For those of us that enjoy Halloween everyday, I recommend Buried by Linda Joy Singleton. This amazing new Goth series is a spin off of her Seer books. Thorn has just moved to Nevada, started a new high school, but has managed to find her niche, other goth girls. Black nail polish, black fairy wings, piercings and fabulous wig colors are the normal attire to complement a school day. Throw in a past student that has reached fame like Justin Bieber, and you get the starting of a new goth adventure.

Thorn has the ability to find things. Needless to say, a locket finds her with a mystery. When she discovers the secret of the locket, she is connected to its crime. Can she manage to find the owner of the locket that will clear her name? It might mean giving up what she has found most dear, her new friends and gothic look. Can she give it all up to enter the singing contest and expose the criminal before it’s too late?

Seriously. This book has drive. It kept me glued to its pages, turning feverishly with mysteries around every corner. Who is the Grin Reaper? Is he cute? Can a girl save her friend from being with the wrong guy? Not to mention, candy pink doesn’t go well with skull earrings.

If you notice right now you’re wearing black nail polish, this is most likely the book for you. It is a great YA read for any age. Whether you want a good mystery to relax with, or relish the days “Everyday is Halloween”, I recommend Buried. It will make you want more in the end, especially if its dressed in black.

***** Five Star Rating

Available at Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com.

Oct24

New Halloween Picture Book: All Hallow’s ABC

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All Hallow's ABC by Jenni Kaye

All Hallow’s ABC by Jenni Kaye

Are you looking for a Halloween themed bedtime picture book? All Hallow’s ABC by Jenni Kaye is a great way to get your child into the Halloween theme without the scary, threatening pictures and messages that are often within books and movies this time of the year.

The illustrations are darling, with a cartoonish quality. Each line captures the magic and fun of Halloween. It will help with that high energy excitement as the spooky night approaches. This is definitely a repeat read for each year until the little trick-o-treater is ready to read it on their own. Currently a bronze medal winner at the 2013 Moonbeam Children’s Awards, I recommend for a spooky read-aloud every night.

***** Five Star Rating
Available at Amazon.com as a paperback or ebook edition.

Sep30

The New Bay Bridge Span: Connecting the 20th and 21st Centuries

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Standing on the new Bay Bridge span looking at the old Bay Bridge span

Standing on the new Bay Bridge span looking at the old Bay Bridge span

Lately, I’ve been blogging about local bridges. I guess growing up in the San Francisco Bay area can be something to write about. I’ve always enjoyed going over the Bay Bridge or Golden Gate. Luckily, I don’t need to commute over either. So, it is still a treat to view San Francisco, or look out over the bay while transversing one of the famous bridges.

In 1989, I was working at Macy’s when the earthquake hit. I listened in the parking lot as KCBS, the only radio station still broadcasting, reported the Bay Bridge collapse. Of course, my power was out at home, and wasn’t restored until the next day. All I had to go on were the reports from the radio or telephone. There was no internet in 1989 for the common folk.

So, when I saw the pictures on TV the next day, I was shocked by the freeway collapse of 880 and the Bay Bridge span that fell from the upper to lower deck. Really, it would be scary to imagine myself on the Bay Bridge during the earthquake.

Almost 25 years later, the Bay Bridge span from Treasure Island to Oakland has finally been replaced. Local news coverage does not do it justice. It is the only Bay Bridge with a suspended bike lane. So, I had to explore this unique way to see the span.

On the new Bay Bridge span at the tour on the new biking trail.

On the new Bay Bridge span at the tower on the new biking trail.

I conquered riding up the new Bay Bridge span on Sept. 22, 2013. The new span opened on Sept. 2, 2013. So, this new territory of bridge is fresh and new for the locals as well as the world. I have to admit, the experience of riding next to the old span really puts things in perspective. It is like being in two worlds.

Riding on the 21st century span gazing at the 20th century span gives you time to reflect on this new century. The ghostly empty old span is a stark reminder of the ideals of the 20th century, build, build, and hope it lasts. The new span is graceful and thinking of generations ahead that will use it. A bike lane gives access soon to Treasure Island for riders, but also considers the needs of the future generation.

The old Bay Bridge span now closed to traffic.

The old Bay Bridge span now closed to traffic.

As I stood at the top of the span, I remembered the times as a kid crossing the other span. It was the other century now, and I was standing on something that didn’t exist until now. It was like being in a gateway between the two centuries. I imagined that the new Bay Bridge span will eventually dull from it’s splendid white, turn a yellow, and maybe become an everyday reminder to the beginning of the 21st century. One day, someone will look at the pictures of it’s beginning and wonder what all the people thought when it opened and the old span still stood. Hopefully, they’ll know from our posts and pictures. It will be a generation’s legacy to be remembered.

Sep14

Tiffany Turner Author Signing Event 9/15/13

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Tiffany Turner signing her third book, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, at Booksmart in Morgan Hill, CA.

Tiffany Turner signing her third book, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, at Booksmart in Morgan Hill, CA.

Tiffany Turner will be signing her books in the Crystal Keeper Chronicles at the Almaden Lake Art and Wine Festival in San Jose, CA on Sunday Sept. 15. Come visit and meet Mrs. Turner, purchase the new book, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, and enter to win your own Crystal Keeper Pendant. The festival will be open from 10 am until 6 pm. Hope to see you there!


Sep11

How To Run A Blog Tour: My Lessons

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Topic: Running Your Own Blog Tour

Topic: Running Your Own Blog Tour

So, welcome all that participated or dropped by to visit my first blog tour hosted by the Indie Children’s Authors Connection. This post will be a little behind the scenes, as I share all the lessons learned and huge amount of friends that were made.

First, why should you run a blog tour? Well, it is a way to connect a whole lot of bloggers that are networking to share a certain content during a set block of time. I would recommend to try to join as a participant before you host a blog tour. It is a great way to learn the ropes.

Second, link up with a blog tour that fits with what you want to promote. I spent a good portion of the summer wanting to promote my fantasy adventure books for children. I joined a blog tour that sponsored fantasy as the theme. There were a range of different books, and it was a good way to get started. Add the fact my blog got featured for a day on Kboards.com, and it all conjoined into a lot of promotion for my books. Plus, I even sold a few books that week.

Third, I took what I learned, specializing in your genre and trying to bring that audience to your blog. I looked around for a Back to School related tour. I didn’t find one. So, I figured, if you build a blog tour, they will come and discover Indie Children’s Authors.

Realizing that I had an opportunity to support the mission of my blog, getting the word out about Indie Children’s Authors, I asked on my writing board, Kboards.com, if anyone would be interested. I got a HUGE response. You can read the almost 2 months of planning that went on with this thread here.

Back to School Blog Tour 2013 Sept. 2-6

Back to School Blog Tour 2013
Sept. 2-6

So, I whipped up a blog tour logo from some free clipart, and started organizing. I made up a list, sent out questions to authors, and gave deadlines. I made up a landing page through the page option on WordPress. I had some people come and go due to schedules, but we ended up with a fabulous list of participating authors. Here is the final list of authors:
1) Victoria Jeffrey
Blog Link: http://www.epistlepublishing.com
Featured Books: The Green Door, The Pumpkin Princess and The Winter Wolves

2)H.Y. Hanna
Blog Link: http://www.bighoneydogmysteries.com/
Featured EBook: Big Honey Dog Mysteries: Curse of the Scarab

3) Sibel Hodge:
Website: http://www.sibelhodge.com/
Featured Book: It’s A Catastrophe

4) Vivienne Mathews
Blog: http://viviennemathews.blogspot.com/
Featured Book: The Sons of Masguard and the Mosque Hill Fortune, Part Two (Volume Two)

4) W.N.Rae
Book: The Night Clock
Website: http://otherrealmspost.tumblr.com/

5) Becca Price
Website: http://www.wyrmtalespress.com/
Featured Book: Dragon and Dreams Bedtime Stories

6) Scott Pixello
Facebook Page link: https://www.facebook.com/scott.pixello
Featured Book: Rainbow

I’d like to thank everyone for making the first Back to School Blog Tour a success.

So, what did I learn? I think I’m going to go for invitation to participate next time, limit to five authors for manageability, and cut the book giveaway bundle. We ended up not have any entries, but leave the authors to do their own giveaways if they wish.

I’m staying with the featured author interviews, and will work as that being the host site feature. I did have study questions and Back to School memories as a popular blog topic for participants.

So, I learned a lot, and I’m glad to share the wealth. If you are interested in hosting your own blog tour; keep it simple. Simple is good and easier to manage. Add onto it as you do another blog tour in the future. To conclude, enjoy yourself. I was happy to host a place for new Indie authors to be discovered. I’m hoping I’ve created a niche, and now, hopefully, an annual event.

**This post is part of the monthly
“Indie Life” posts linked on the Indelibles Blog.

The Lost Secret of Dragonfire is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

The Lost Secret of Dragonfire is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

***Tiffany Turner has just released her third book, The Lost Secret of Dragonfire, in her Crystal Keeper series. She continues to teach fourth graders in California while writing fantasy adventure middle grade novels. She is working on other writing projects in her No Limits Writing practices. She actively plays the Gaelic Harp at Renaissance festivals throughout Northern California.

Sep10

Back to School Blog Tour 2013-Giveaway Results

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Back to School Blog Tour Sept. 2-6

Back to School Blog Tour Sept. 2-6

Today is the winner announcement for the Back to School Giveaway Bundle. It was linked through an on-line giveaway entry website called Rafflecopter. I’m sorry to announce there were no entries for the giveaway. Therefore, there was no winner.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/20834f1/

But, let’s do this all again next year. I had a great time interviewing other Indie Children’s Authors, and I’d love to run the blog tour again next year. I think I’ll be making some changes, and focusing on certain features. Look for the Back to School Blog Tour 2014 next year. Announcements will go out for participation during the summer of 2014.

For now, enjoy the information from the blog tour, visit the featured authors, and have an excellent school year!

-Tiffany Turner
Editor and Head Writer for The Indie Children’s Authors Connection