SOCIAL NETWORKING: A CURSE OR A GREAT COMING?

When I began writing back in 1987, we were still putting manuscripts in the mail, using floppy disks and responding to fan letters with real live letters, envelopes and stamps! My how far we have come.
I was one of the early dissidents against cell phones. I thought they were the most ridiculous, obnoxious and obtrusive pieces of technology known to man. What in the world could possibly be so important that one must have a conversation walking on the street, in the car or on the bus (the worst)? Flash forward—if I walk out of my house without my IPhone, you can be darn sure I’m going back to get it.
In other words, over time, we’ve all grown accustomed to our love/obsession with being connected—and that one special someone is no longer sufficient—we want to be connected with the universe by every trick of technology possible. And for authors—aspiring or those sunk deep in the trenches—the opportunities to spread the word about your work has multiplied exponentially as the plethora of cyber opportunities has grown, becoming affectionately known as “Social Networking.”
Networking used to be that thing you did after work at the local bar, restaurant, hot spot, and trade gatherings. How many of you remember the glass bowls where you deposited your business cards? Well, now you can network from the privacy of your own home, in jammies and hair curlers, through the magic of Social Networking.
What are social networks anyway? In their infancy social networks were very often simple author loops, where authors from a particular house or specific genre set up a loop where they could email everyone in the group to be kept up to date on trends, gossip and industry happenings, share advice, joys and sorrows.
With the growth and development of YAHOO and its various uses, individuals were able to form YAHOO GROUPS for whatever topic pleased them, build an email list from those who joined the group, and share information between ALL those who held a common interest. MSN has similar “group” capabilities. Both YAHOO and MSN give authors an opportunity to develop a fan base where members join to discuss the author’s, books, characters, ask questions, find out about new releases etc. and most importantly to connect with their favorite author in a matter of seconds.
SHELFARI is a book lovers dream. Members can list their favorite books, build a bookshelf that can be embedded on an author blog or website (showcasing your books of course) and it is also a place to spread the word about your own books and upcoming projects. SHELFARI allows you to build your own network group within the community. A great way to get thousands of people talking about your book. http://shelfari.com
MYSPACE-the social network giant introduced the world to the art of connecting through cyberspace. Setting up a MYSPACE page is relatively easy. There are templates available and all sorts of links to help get you up and running with a look and feel that represents you. The great part is, nothing is etched in stone. If you don’t like the look you can always change it. Most important it is a way to gain friends and hopefully potential readers. The features of MYSPACE include Blogs, Bulletins, and Notices. There is an address book feature as well as a categories feature (which is extremely helpful in categorizing the people that ask to be your friend—are they already fans, potential readers, book clubs or other authors?) http://myspace.com MYSPACE has grown so large that there are MYSPACE pages just for musicians and book lovers.

FACEBOOK—the younger of the social networking giants is truly “everyone friendly.” There is no page building, graphics etc. to contend with to get “a look.” It is a place to get connected with others, share news, talk about yourself and be cheered on by all those who have “become you Facebook friend.” There are a few nice little perks to face book. As an author you can actually set up your own fan page. And as surfers scoot by your page they can become a “fan.” Great way to get announcements out to your FACEBOOK friends about appearances, book release dates, and what you ate for breakfast! http://facebook.com

Amazon Connect—power house Amazon has a neat feature for writers. With Amazon Connect, you can have every book that you’ve written “verified” by your editor or your agent. Once the books are verified and you post to the Amazon blog, each and every person who has ever purchased any of the verified books will automatically get an update. What I found out quite by accident is that my own blog feeds OUT to Amazon as well. So all of my blog posts go to every person that has ever purchase any book of mine through Amazon!

NING—is a thing of beauty and my personal favorite. The versatility and ease of use is wonderful. My entire fanclub was built through NING. The features are wonderful from blogs, to chats, groups, and forums, you can add video and audio as well. A great alternative to a static website. With NING you can build your very own network with your own focus and purpose and have a membership base than can continue to grow. http://ning.com

TWITTER—uses SMS technology (Short Messaging System) to keep friends and family updated about every aspect of your life… if you wish. It’s fun and great for hot off the press info sharing. Twitter is rapidly becoming the go-to network outlet for up to the minute information, resources and trends. The downside is that messages must be short. http://twitter.com

EZTexting—a nice way of not capturing email addresses but cellphone numbers! This free service allows you to embed the widget into your signature line, website, blog etc. and capture cell phone numbers to all those who sign up. This is an excellent way to remind fans and potential fans in one fell swoop (while you’re on the go) that today is the day that your book drops! Or I’ll be at the local Wal-Mart for my signing at 6. Again, this technology uses SMS so the messages must be short and sweet. http://eztexting.com

Every day EMAILING is a form of social networking. Use it to the maximum. Be sure in your signature that you include your web address and the link(s) to any social network site that is/are YOURS. i.e., http://myspace.com/donnahillwriter

Internet Radio is also a form of social networking. On BLOGTALK RADIO for example, you can set up and host your own radio show for free. In addition to mentioning your own books, you can bring on guests that drive listeners to your show and hence find out more information about you. What’s great about BlogTalk is that each show is archived. Listeners who missed a show and always download a missed episode. Your show and what you want to say can be heard by listeners literally around the world. You can embed the widget on your blog, or website so that visitors can sign up for reminders, thus building your listening audience. Listeners can call in and talk to you and your guests. And guests wanting to get on your show to tout their latest offering brings more listeners to your program. http://blogtalkradio.com/author-donna-hill



There are many other social networking sites out there. But these are some of the big ones. And they are all FREE. However I must share a few words of caution.

*Every social network site or utility is not for everyone. Choose one that represents who you are and what you can manage.
* Don’t join a group or network simply to toot your own horn. Members really don’t like it. And can smell you coming a mile away. Join a group because you are interested in what the group is interested in, share your interests, what you are doing, and actually make friends. It’s the best way to gain support when that book comes out. The members will feel that they are supporting a member of the “family.”
*Don’t post to the lists that you belong to or the networks that you are in, only about you, or only post when you have a new book. Members will ignore you.
*One great way to drive traffic to your group is to have fun, informative and relevant information that is not necessarily about you.
* If you build a group or a social network that is specific to you and your work, make sure that the members feel that by being a part of it they are getting something that non-members can’t get.
*Don’t start a group, loop, blog, or social network site that you can’t maintain and keep up with.

There is no doubt that in the current economy, and with publishers pulling back on tours, advertising dollars and new contracts, authors have to be creative and pro-active about getting the word out on their books. Becoming social network savvy is and will continue to be for a very long time, the way that authors will connect with their readers. On my fanclub site, for example, I have members from as far away as Dubai to as close as around the corner from where I live. That may have never happened without the advance of social networking.

With all the Tweeting, and Facebooking and Emailing and Blogging it is easy to actually become disconnected as opposed to connected. We all crave that human connection. Don’t get buried so far behind the screen and SMS messaging that you forget the real world. Send a real thank you card to the book clubs that have supported you. Try to get out to a store or two in your travels to meet your fans. And be as nice in person as you are on screen and your fans will follow you anywhere “in the world.”

Rep. Joe Wilson Shouts 'You Lie' to Obama During Speech

Rep. Joe Wilson Shouts 'You Lie' to Obama During Speech

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Prize of a Lifetime… excerpt

Mitchell flipped on the light as Sasha step fully into the room. She was pleasantly surprised to see that his room was as neat as hers and she wondered if he'd gotten some sage advice from a friend of his as well.

"I can order something from room service if you're hungry or thirsty," Mitchell said. He shrugged out of his jacket and hung on the back of the chair.

"Water is fine. I'm really full after all the food we ate on the ship," she said, stifling a laugh.

Mitchell chuckled in response. "That's true. One thing about going on vacation, you always eat more than you ever possibly could when you're back at home. I found that out the hard way last time I went away."

Sasha strolled fully into the room, walking towards the terrace doors. She slid the door open and stepped outside. She leaned against the balcony. Mitchell stepped out behind her.

"It really is quite beautiful here," Sasha said softly, looking out towards the horizon.

Mitchell moved close to her. There was barely any space separating them. He looked down into her upturned face. "Everything from the flowers to the mountains to the ocean, the sandy beaches, nothing can compare to how beautiful you are Sasha," he said. "And I'm not just saying all those things because I want to make love to you," he admitted.

Sasha could not believe what she'd just heard. He'd actually said he wanted to make love to her. She reached up and stroked his jaw. "Do you really mean that or is it just a line that should hand all of the single island ladies?" There was a hint of mischief in her voice, but her question was sincere.

"I have no reason to lie to you. If there was someone else I wanted to be with, I probably could've done that a long time ago. It's not what I wanted. I know as well as you do, that there was something that sparked between us from the moment we laid eyes on each other. If it's not, tell me and I'll leave it alone. Right now. I'll never bring it up again."

Sasha knew what he was saying without actually coming out and saying the words. He wanted her to admit that she wanted him just as much as he wanted her. "You're right," she said. "I've never felt this way about someone so quickly." She lowered her head for a moment trying to gather her thoughts. She looked up at his into his questioning eyes. "I feel the same way you do. I've wanted you from the moment I saw you, from the moment we started talking, from the moment... you kissed me for the first time." She listened to her confession pour from her lips. She did believe the things that she was saying. What was even more distressing, was she could not believe what she was feeling. Was it possible to actually feel this deeply this quickly about someone she barely knew? Which she wake up tomorrow and regret the decision she was about to make or would she wake up and discover that this is the greatest thing that ever happened to her?

Mitchell watched the array of emotions flit across Sasha face. It was almost as if he were watching his own reflection. He felt the same way, certain and uncertain, yet knowing that there was no turning back and he didn't want to. He threaded his long fingers behind her neck, pulling her closer to him. He lowered his head. His eyes focused on her lips as they slightly parted waiting for him to touch them. Make them his own. He felt her intake of breath as his lips met hers, soft, sweet delectable like the succulent fruits of the Caribbean island.

He took her mouth, slow and easy like the sultry beat of the ocean waves against the shore. He felt his body react to the softness of hers as he pulled her closer.

She stepped up to him, pressing her body flush against his own. Every dip, every curve fit like perfect pieces. Sasha moaned against his mouth, which only incited the desire that he had for her.

She felt his body harden, stiffen, pressing his heat between her warm thighs.

His large hands slid down the curve of her spine, cupping her behind, pulling her closer, locking her against him. He groaned as Sasha lifted her fingers and played with the shell of his ear.

"Sasha," Mitchell moaned against her mouth. "The whole world can see us standing on the balcony." He stroked her hair, ran his finger along the curve of her jaw.

Sasha looked up at him, feeling bold. "I don't care," she said. "Let them look."

Mitchell tossed his head back and laughed. "You never cease to amaze me." He took her hand and stepped back into the safety of the room, shutting the terrace doors behind them. He drew the drapes. "There are some things that I plan to do to you tonight that I don't want anybody to be a witnesses to other than you and I."

Sasha languidly ran her tongue across her lips. She shrugged off the jacket that she wore over her strapless dress and dropped it on the corner of the bed. She leaned down and released the straps from her sandals and stepped out of them.

Mitchell crossed the room turned off the overhead lights and turned on the softer lights that were positioned on the nightstand next to the bed. He extended his hand to her, which she took and he drew her close.

"Are you sure this is what you want to do?" Mitchell asked a final time.

Sasha nodded, uncertain of what she would say if she tried to speak.

The sound of partygoers moved outside their door. Laughter rippled up and down the corridor drawing their attention. For a moment the spell that they cast between themselves was momentarily broken. The noise quieted by degrees, and Sasha and Mitchell returned their attention to each other. He reached behind her and unzipped her dress. She gasped softly, his eyes questioning her, her answering response was an unequivocal, yes.

Sasha worked the buttons of Mitchell's starched white shirt until it was completely undone falling away from the hard lines of his muscular chest. She ran the tips of her nails across the rippled muscles of his six pack. He drew in a short shot breath then eased Sasha dress over the curves of her body until it slipped away and pooled at her feet.

"Oh... my... God," Mitchell uttered, when his gaze fell upon the curves, the softness, the sensuous delight that was Sasha's banging body. He lowered his head and sought her lips.

Sasha's eyes drifted close as she stretched her arms upward and linked her fingers behind the curve of his neck.

His gentle fingers played with her spine, causing shivers to run up and down her body. The hard bulge in his shorts pressed roughly against her and she felt her own desire rise and flow between her thighs.

A quick pop by nimble fingers released her strapless bra. Mitchell pulled it away and tossed it on the floor. He took a step back to take her in and it was a feast.

Her breasts were full, lush and perfect. Her nipples hard and pointed ready to be tasted and he did.

Sasha let out a gasp of delight when Mitchell's hot lips covered her right nipple, gently tugging, laving and sucking on it making her legs tremble in response. He massaged the other running his thumb across the hardened peak. Any thought of doubt or misgiving vanished, replaced with a need so demanding that she was certain if she didn't have him, and soon, she would explode. And she wanted to be sure that the explosion happened with Mitchell buried deep inside of her. She released his belt and zipper. His slacks dropped to his ankles. He kicked them out of the way.

She reached down, slid her hand beneath the band of his shorts and tenderly stroked the length of him, stunned by the silky texture that covered what felt like steel.

Mitchell shuddered. The muscles in his neck tightened like knotted rope. Something deep and dark rumbled in his throat. In a smooth move he reversed their positions until Sasha's back was to the bed. He eased her down.

She lifted her legs onto the bed and slid over to give him room to join her.

For a moment, he stood above her, drinking her in like a man starved for nourishment, before pushing his shorts down over his hips and stepping out of them. Sasha drew in a breath of awe and alarm. Even in the dim light, he looked lethal. She trembled.

Mitchell moved toward her, stretching the length of his body alongside hers. He caressed her face as she turned her head to kiss the inside of his palm.

His hand drifted down, trailing across the rise of her breasts to the hollow of her stomach to the hot darkness nestled between her legs. She jumped ever so slightly when he began patting her there, gently in a teasing rhythms that shortly had her writhing and moaning softly. He pushed away the barely there string of her thong to find her wet and ready.

Instinctively her hips rose as his finger played with the throbbing bud, slid further and up into the slick wetness of her opening.

Sasha gripped the sheets as her body took on a will of its own, moving up and down against the steady stroke of his fingers.

His rhythm built in intensity. Her head spun as an unbearable heat filled her.

"That's it," he cooed, urging her on. "You feel so good," he murmured. He lowered his head and took her breast into his mouth as he continued to finger her.

"Oooooh, God," she cried, as the first spasm was unleashed and roared through her in a wave that curled her toes and separated her from reality. Her chest rose and fell in hard knocks as her orgasm slowly subsided leaving her weak yet wanting even more.

Slowly she opened her eyes and stared into his.

"Ready for me now?" he asked, slowly easing his fingers out.

She whimpered, suddenly feeling empty. Numbly she nodded her head, then reality hit. "Wait," she managed to say. Pulling herself up on her hands and knees she crawled to the edge of the bed and felt her for purse on the floor. She took out two condoms then returned to her spot next to Mitchell.

"Why don't you do the honors?" he said.

With shaky fingers she tore the packet open and removed the thin sheath. Nervously eyeing him she placed the condom on his swollen tip and rolled it down his length.

Mitchell bit down on his bottom lip to keep from groaning out loud. The heat of her hands, the way she subtly jerked him up and down while putting on the condom was nearly his undoing.

He gripped her wrist. "Okay, okay . . . you gotta stop," he said.

Amusement sparkled in her eyes and a sense of power flooded through her that she could make him feel anywhere near as awesome as how he'd made her feel moments ago.

"What would you have me to instead?" she taunted.

"Lay back and open your legs for me. Let me in."

Locking her gaze with his, she did as he asked. He reached around her and snatched a pillow from the head of the bed. "Lift up," he ordered, and slid the pillow beneath her hips.

He moved into a position above her, snug between her parted thighs. He cupped his hands beneath her knees and rose up on his. He pushed her thighs back toward her chest until they were wide, stretched out on either side of his shoulders.

He didn't need a hand to guide him. Like radar he found her opening. That first contact was electric and shot through the both of them. He pressed. The head breached her opening and she gasped, feeling her insides begin to spread as he slowly pushed into to her.

Mitchell lowered his head and kissed her, filling her mouth with his hungry tongue, muffling her moans as he began to move in earnest deep within her.

The nothings that he whispered in her ear were anything but sweet. They were hot, erotic, down right good and freaky. And she gave just as good as she got.

"Like this . . ." she said, thrusting her hips hard against him, causing his eyes to slam shut and an expletive to gush from his mouth.

He opened his eyes and looked down at her, his gaze intense and fierce. "No. More like this," he ground out, cupping her firm behind in his palms and lifting her lower body up and down like she weighed no more than a loaf of bread.

Her head spun. Her fingers dug into his shoulder blades when he hit a spot that had never been reached. She screamed when he tapped his again, and a again, winding his hips, pulling almost all the way out then plunging back in again.

Sasha couldn't catch her breath as the sensuous assault continued and escalated until her entire body was consumed by heat and the tremors began from the balls of her feet, shot down the back of her legs that were pointed toward the ceiling and exploded in the center of her being.

The sound that erupted from the core of her soul, spiraled into the heated air, unfamiliar, raw and ragged as Mitchell moved harder and faster drawing closer to his own desperately needed climax.

Sasha managed to slide her hand down between their thrusting bodies to cup and massage him, while using her internal muscles to squeeze and release his cock, pumping out every drop of his essence.

"Uggggg!" He slammed into her one final time, pushing himself to the hilt, his body stiff and jerky as if electrified before collapsing on top of her.

Their heavy breathing and the thumping beats of their hearts were the only sounds in the room.

Sasha lay beneath him, listening to his heart pound against her chest, mesmerized by what had just transpired. There had not been many men in her life. She could count the one's she'd slept with on less than one hand. But this . . . this thing that happened between her and Mitchell was beyond carnal lust. It was a reckoning. The way he'd made her feel was how they wrote sex scenes in romance novels. Surreal. Impossible. But she'd experienced it. She could testify.

As his erection began to soften it sent another shudder rippling through Sasha, stunning her with the realization that she had anything left. She moaned in need.

Totally in tuned to her body's reaction, Mitchell slowly pulled out, ensuring that the condom was still in tact before bringing Sasha to another spine curling orgasm with his fingers.

Spent and weak they curled against each other and drifted off to sleep only to wake a short time later to begin all over again.

They made love throughout the night, taking short breaks to talk, laugh at what they were doing and replenish their bodies with much needed water.

Just before daybreak, Sasha coaxed Mitchell out onto the terrace and beneath the splash of stars and waning moonlight, with only the ocean as their audience, she leaned over the railing and let him take her.

Sitting in the doctor's office cause I'm sick as a dog. So nurse asks me what's wrong. Mind you my eyes are glassy, I can barely talk, I have tissues plugging my drippy nose and my mouth is hanging open like a rabid dog because I can't breathe.
So I humor the nurse and run down my litany of symptoms to which she brilliantly pronounces "sounds like you're coming down with something ". Duh really.

Brooklyn is Doing the Damned Thing!

On Saturday, August 29, 2009, director, writer, producer, actor and Brooklynite Spike Lee turned Prospect Park on its ear with a blow out block party tribute to "da man" Michael Jackson in recognition of his passing and in celebration in what would have been his 51st birthday. I was honored to have written the proclamation that was presented during the event by the Borough President.

Brooklyn is gearing up to rock again, but on a different note. On Sunday, September 13 from 10am to 6pm Brooklyn hosts its annual Brooklyn Book Festival The festival boasts a stellar lineup, including yours truly and ROCHELLE ALERS on a 3 pm panel on the mainstage dishing on the longevity, power, and passion of the romance novel, why it continues to dominate sales... and what about those sexy, shirtless men? Yes, we'll discuss those to as well as how we got in and have stayed in the business and in print for more than two decades.

Please spread the word and try to join us.

Longing and Lies

Well the wrap up has finally begun. Many of you have been following my Ladies Cartel series, featuring my female butt-kicking, sexy sleuths. I am currently working on the forth and last installment entitled Longing and Lies (not my original title). This time Ashley Temple (who readers met earlier)is in the spotlight paired up with Elliott Morgan(the to die-for undercover agent)to smoke out a baby smuggling ring operating in New York City. The assignment is more than a job for Ashley. It's personal. And the heat gets turned up when Ashley and Elliott for the purposes of their cover have to play husband and wife and live under the same roof. Needless to say, sparks fly. And of course, as with this entire series,nothing is as it seems. I've saved some interesting twists for this one.

If you missed the earlier books, be sure to get your copies:
Sex & Lies
Seduction & Lies
Temptation & Lies

Happy reading

Innervision Books

As we move headlong into a world dominated by technology, my bizness partner, Pittershawn Palmer and I decided we wanted to be part of the new age. With that in mind we launched INNERVISION BOOKS, an e-book publishing company that seeks to fill some of the literary gaps, open the door for new voices, support the veterans and provide readers with hours of enlightenment and entertainment.

We currently have four titles in print (and immediately ready to download to your computer,PDA or e-book reader). For those who have Kindles, although these are not Kindle books, once you download to your computer, you can email the file to your Kindle and read on the go. The same is true of the Sony Reader.

If you have not tried an e-book, now is your chance. We hope that you will support our efforts and the work of our authors so that we can continue to bring more writers and books to the marketplace.

Prize of a Lifetime--Coming to a Store Near You

I'm happy to announce that PRIZE OF A LIFETIME my annual Summer contribution to the Arabesque summer series is primed to hit bookstores on September 29. I know seems like a long time but it's not. This new series is part of the Primetime Passion series that got kicked off with Adrianne Byrd's novel Queen of His Heart (Available Now).

My story puts love to the ultimate test when Sasha Carrington spends two sizzling nights on the romantic island of Antigua with sexy Mitchell Davenport, only for the both of them to shortly realize that they will be competitors on television's newest and hottest reality television show Heartbreak Hotel. The prize of a lifetime is one million dollars and your own hotel!

How will the game play out? Who will win? And when they do will they chose love or money and the dream of a lifetime? Hmm, think you know the answer? It's not as simple as you might imagine.

Be sure to add it to your book list and find out for yourself.

Harlequin has been on a mission to re-issue many of my early Arabesque titles, which give so many readers a chance to get books they may have missed and introduce new readers to my work. So far they have reissued CHARADE, CHANCES ARE, TEMPTATION, A PRIVATE AFFAIR AND PIECES OF DREAMS.

Well,that's it for now. I'll be back to post my upcoming schedule. Heading to Calfornia, Chicago and Maryland in the coming months. Would love to see your friendly faces.

Author Francis Ray Gets Special Honor

Francis Ray Author
Today, Celebrity Bakery and Cafe, a chain restaurant in the Dallas metroplex, honored me and three other women as local heroes. I was honored due to establishing The Turning Point Legal Defense Fund, a fund that assist battered women with their legal expenses. The fund is managed by the Family Place, a local women's shelter in Dallas. A menu item that I selected, Cranberry Chicken Salad will now be Francis Ray's Cranberry Chicken Salad on the menu board. It was a fun event. I was humbled by the honor, and then totally blown away when several fans who were guests of another honoree promptly went to the Borders bookstore next door and purchased books for me to sign. It was an incredible afternoon.

So, if you're in the North Dallas area and want a great lunch with a fabulous dessert, may I suggest Francis Ray's Cranberry Chicken Salad at Celebrity Cafe at 10720 Preston Rd - Suite 1016 - Dallas, TX 75230 -214-373-0783. Please tell them Francis sent you.

Is There a Book Hiding Inside You? - TRCB

Is There a Book Hiding Inside You? - TRCB

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Whew Finally Back

I can't believe it's been a month since I posted. It's not that I didn't have anything to say. It was more that I had so much to do I couldn't get my thoughts together. So here is a brief update:

I finally finished my almost ten years in the making sequel to RHYTHMS. Handed in my final revisions to my editor on May 14! Amen. The title is WHAT MOTHER NEVER TOLD ME. I am so excited about this book for so many reasons. First because I so loved Rhythms. That book allowed me to do things with my writing I have never done before. This sequel gave me the chance to do it again. Hopefully, with age I've gotten better! LOL.

WMNTM will be out in March 2010. It seems like forever but it coincides with another phenomenal event---my 20th year in publishing!!! That is so awesome and I feel totally blessed to still be in print and around to tell the story. That I owe ALL to the readers who have supported me each and every year. I may not be on the New York Times list or USA Today, but I know I am in the hearts of all those readers who like what I do. And I promise to do my best to keep them coming. (Please stay tuned for all kinds of upcoming events heading toward my anniversary)

On another note INNERVISION BOOKS my co-owned e-book publishing company has officially opened its virtual doors! We have 4 launch titles with more on the way. Please visit the site and check us out. Guidelines are available on the site as well.

That's it for now. Working on my next Ladies Cartel book --Scandals and Lies. But I think my editor is trying change the name... sigh...

I'll keep you posted!

Writing Classes

Greetings,

Beginning next Thursday, April 23, I will be conducting a novel writing workshop at the Frederick Douglass Creative Arts Center in New York: Crafting the Novel: From Concept to Publication.

If you are an aspiring writer who has begun a novel and is looking to strengthen the story, characters, dialogue, gain some guidance on structure and editing, then this is the class for you. If you have a story idea, but don't know how to get started, then do join us. The class will meet on Thursdays for 8 weeks. Class size is strictly limited to 10 students.

To register, please call 212 864-3375. Address 270 W. 96th Street. Reserve your seat today.

Crafting the Novel—From Concept to Publication by Donna Hill

This class is for those who have a story concept or draft of their novel and those who wish to flesh out their novel in=2 0progress.

I. Crystallizing Your Novel’s Premise/Theme
What is my novel about? Who is my audience? Developing that 3 sentence pitch.

II. Characters That Live and Breathe
Crafting three-dimensional characters. Developing characters biographies

III. Plot, Pacing and Backstory
How to keep your story moving and readers interested by using a storyboard

IV. Dialogue
Learning the technique of listening to your characters

V. Crafting the Synopsis/Working Outline of Your Novel

VI. Those Daunting First Chapters—Make them Sizzle

VII. Revision & Review

VIII. The Editorial Process, Agents, Conferences, Joining the Literary Community (book groups, online book clubs)

Each class will include worksheets, reading assignments and in-class work assignments.


Thank you and if this is not for you, please feel free to distribute to those who may benefit from the class.


Donna

From the Typewriter to the Bookstore

This was shared on a group that I belong to and I had to share it with you all. It is truly funny!! Enjoy the trials and tribulations of publishing

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQ78WHpGZ1o

L.A. BANKS Coming Your Way!!

NYT Bestselling Author L.A. Banks,the creator behind the phenomenal Vampire Huntress series is scheduled to be my special guest on Sunday, February 8, 2009 at 6 pm EST on Blogtalk Radio.

L.A.Banks will be discussing her amazing career, her road to sucess and how she manages to "stay in the light" when she writes her dark tales. And of course her upcoming major event in Philly.

Three lucky listeners will win a copy of the soon to be released THE THIRTEENTH, the final book in the Vampire Huntress Series.

So do join us on line in our chat room or call in to speak with L.A. live @ 347 426-3649.

TEMPTATION & LIES DROPS TODAY!!

TEMPTATION AND LIES, the third book in The Ladies Cartel Series hits bookstores nationwide today!

For those who have been following my sexy series, book 3 features Mia Turner, event planner extraordinaire who is given her first Cartel assignment. Unfortunately for Mia, the person under investigation is none-other-than her ex,Michael Burke who is now head of a major management firm, and suspected of being the ring leader behind a high-powered escort service. Mia and Michael had a heated, clandestine love affair, that ended abruptly, with a few loose ends. Now that Mia is back in Michael's life he wants to tie up those ends. But not if Mia's current man Steven has anything to say about it.

Torn between her commitment to The Cartel, her love for Steven and her unresolved feelings for Michael, this case may be bigger than Mia bargained for.

As you all know series books have a short shelf live (2 weeks) so be sure to get your copy soon! I know you will love it!

Other Books in the series

Mary Morrison Joins Me on Blogtalk

Please join me and my co-hosts Debra Owsley, Marc Lacy and Joy as we meet and greet NYT Bestselling Author Mary Morrison aka Honey B on BlogTalking on Sunday with Donna Hill & Friends.

Known for her spicy hot stories, an off the chain website,and true freedom of expression, Mary will talk to us candidly about her career and her alter ego Honey B. Be sure to set your reminders for Sunday, February 1 at 6 pm EST. To call in and speak to Mary dial 347 426-3649 or visit us in the chat room

Celebrate Black History 365 Days Per Year

http://www.ls.cc.al.us/blackhistory/blackhistory.html

PLEASE ENJOY THIS PHENOMENAL ARRAY OF OUR MAGNIFICENCE (CLICK HERE)

Does Reading Make You a Better Writer?

I recently devoured three books in the past couple of weeks. To voracious readers this may sound like “so what.” But for me, as a writer, finding the time to read is like taking a mini-vacation. And I need to make the most of my time. As a result I have more books in my house than I will ever read (I’m always compelled to buy at least one book everytime I pass a bookstore!–It’s an illness). So when I do get that rare break in my hectic schedule I have to find a book that hooks me from the beginning, that is intriguing, enlightening, and exceptionally written. Needless to say I have tossed many books aside that don’t live up to that criteria.

In any event, I’ve recently read ORANGE MINT AND HONEY by Carleen Brice. A damned good book on all levels and a must read. Then I read SCARPETTA by Patricia Cornwell one of my favorite authors. I followed that up with the master of the short chapters James Patterson’s CROSS COUNTRY. And I just picked up Eric Jerome Dickey's DYING FOR REVENGE, the latest in his Gideon series.

I say all of this to bring me to the point of this post. When we as writers read good work it can only enhance, stimulate and encourage us in our own solitary endeavors. After reading a good book I feel charged and want to up my writing level. Do I? Hmmmm, only a reader will know for sure, but I certainly hope so.

Although my motto is “A writer writes” my other one is, “Any writer worth a damn reads.”

When Writing is No Longer Fun

When I first started writing back in the early 90's (ouch that sounds so looooong ago), I was totally fascinated by the process, of seeing my ideas unfold on the page, of breathing life into inanimate folks. Over time, when contracts and deadlines continued to loom in front of me, that spontaneity and zest for the written word at times gets sucked out of me.

I never want to be a writer that simply grinds words out on the page. I want to have the time to write the book of my heart, not just the book that will pay the bills. So often I find myself at a crossroad between art and survival. And that's when it stops being fun.

What to do? When moments like that hit me, I think about all the wonderful readers that I have met in person, through snail and email and how much joy the words that I've poured onto the page have given them. And ya know what--it ain't so bad afterall.

PR Workshop for Writers--Register NOW

PR Workshop Email Announcement:


SELF-PROMOTION: Does the very term make you cringe? Do you suffer from "Not-Doing-Enough-Self-Promotion" guilt? Do you think self-promotion is something you'll have time to learn AFTER getting The Call?

In February, PR consultant Marcia James and over TWENTY promotion-savvy guest lecturers will present "PR Is NOT a Four-Letter Word", a month-long, online workshop that will provide insider tips, hard-won knowledge, and tools to pick the PR options right for YOU.

The speaker fees for this workshop will be donated to Best Friends Animal Society (http://www.bestfriends.org/), which runs the largest no-kill animal shelter in the U.S.



Here's the workshop's topics and presenters:

Introduction & "What's Your PR Personality" Quiz by Marcia James, Berkley/Cerridwen author

Promotion According To Deadlines, Paydays, And The Real World... by Kate Douglas, Kensington author

Promoting Yourself Before "The Call" by Beth Morrow, Wild Rose Press author & workshop presenter

Author Branding by Jenn Stark, Golden Heart winner & workshop presenter

Web Site Design by Karen McCullough, Cerridwen author & Karen's Web Works designer

Chats, Reviews & Banners by Marcia James

Online & Print Press Kits by Patricia Sargeant, Kensington/Berkley author

Introduction To Co-Promotion by Dianne Castell, Kensington, Berkley & Harlequin/Silhouette author

Co-Promotion Through Group Blogs by Donna MacMeans, Berkley author

Cross-Promotion by J.C. Wilder/Dominique Adair, Samhain/Ellora's Cave author

Author Promotion Sites by DeNita Tuttle of AuthorIsland.com

Advertising In RT, RWR, Etc by Janice Maynard, NAL author

Print & Trinket PR Materials by Marcia James

Public Appearances/Public Speaking by Karen Harper, MIRA author

Promoting To Acquaintances by Laurie Kingery, Steeple Hill/Love Inspired author

Networking I: Power-Schmoozing by Susan Gee Heino, Berkley author

Networking II: Mentoring & The Farleyfile by Jennifer Stevenson, Ballantine author

Social Media Sites I: Navigating the Galaxy of Social Networks – Kathy Kulig, Ellora's Cave/Cerridwen Press author

Social Media Sites II -- Social Networking: A Curse or the Great Coming? – Donna Hill, Harlequin author

Author Newsletters by Kay Stockham, Harlequin Superromance/Berkley author

Readers' Loops by Carol Ann Erhardt, Wild Rose Press author

Published Author Contests & You by Jenna Petersen/Jess Michaels, Avon author & workshop presenter

Books, Shelves, and Signings by Linda Keller, RWA Bookseller of the Year & Barnes & Noble CRM


Interviews by Marcia James

Book Videos by Barbara Satow, PPA author & owner of NovelTeaser

Podcasts by Melissa Alvarez w/a Ariana Dupre, Nonfiction/Cerridwen Press author

Thinking Outside The Heart-Shaped Box & Wrap-Up by Marcia James

The workshop is sponsored by the Yosemite Romance Writers (YRW) RWA chapter, and registration information can be found at their site: http://www.yosemiteromancewriters.com/6.html The fee is $25 for non-YRW members, and the deadline for registration is 2/1/09.

"PR Is NOT a Four-Letter Word" is a fun, informal workshop, and attendees are encouraged to print out the lectures for a binder of PR tips. In addition, Marcia James offers a 200-page Microsoft WORD file, filled with detailed information on all types of promotional options, to all attendees.

Published and aspiring authors: Learn to love (okay, LIKE) self-promotion. ;-) And banish the guilt of not doing enough PR. Join us online in February! See you there!