The Countdown Begins

It’s panic time. Less than one month before my next book launches. Even though I’ve done it several times now (Bookshop link to all my books), I’m still nervous. I have a checklist of places and people to contact: bloggers, bookstores, fellow authors. Yet I still wonder, Am I forgetting someone? My next release is Death By Bubble Tea, and it comes out July 5 (preorder here). Interesting timing. Will it launch with fireworks or fizzle out? If you want to know more about my new culinary cozy … [Read more...]

To Swag or Not to Swag?

It’s conference season time! As an author, a lot my time is spent in solitary creation. There comes a few points every year where I actually get to go out and meet folks, including readers. This happens at book festivals, and to a smaller extent, at bookstores. Fan conventions, though, are a different beast entirely. These gatherings invite readers to mingle with their favorite authors. They’ve been on pause (or virtual) for the last few years, so I’m excited to see them up and running … [Read more...]

Swag Team

"People are waiting for cues from you." Tired of waiting for news from me? Well, here's my latest writing update: My upcoming novel, DRAGONFLY DREAMS, is moving along speedily with my publisher. It's scheduled to be released November/December 2015 by Booktrope. If you like historical YA mixed with paranormal elements, this is the book for you. It's got: Culture Death Family drama Good versus evil Spirits Want more than just to buy the book? Glad you asked. You can also … [Read more...]

Solace through Swag (ALAAC 2014 part 1)

"If the horse dies, then you have to walk." --Chinese proverb You ride pretty high until the horse falters and you fall off. What else can you do then but walk? I went to the American Library Association Annual Conference (ALAAC) at the end of June to listen to the award announcements for Foreword Reviews' Book of the Year. The bad news: I didn't place in the top four slots in the multicultural category. The good news: I'm still a bonafide finalist! Another silver lining is that I got a … [Read more...]