A horror book in essence, both Never Ceese and Forever Richard caught the eye of The British Fantasy society's MaryAnn Boo . . . and I couldn't be more pleased. Coming from a smaller press than the "big dogs," I'm absolutely knocked on my butt every time I get a review like this. MaryAnn couldn't possibly know how much this means to me. When no other first line reviewers cared to notice, she did.
FOREVER RICHARD
By Sue Dent
The Writer’s Cafe Press, £9.99
Review by Maryann Boo
This is the long awaited sequel to Never Ceese, Sue Dent’s first foray into the world of Richard, a Vampire and his Werewolf sister, Ceese. In this book, Sue takes us back to the early days, where we meet other members of Richard’s and Ceese’s family.
You can read the rest HERE!
Okay. The part about it being a trilogy was my fault. LOL It is still a series but if I don't get the reaction I need from sales to survive, it could be a trilogy. :) That's not saying I'm not getting a good response that's just saying . . . it's pretty much up to y'all.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Someone recommended ME at CCWC?
Well, I had to google it too. LOL CCWC is the Colorado Christian Writer's Conference. Today I received a shoutmail (which is Shoutlife.com's equivalent to e-mail) stating this:
At CCWC this year, it was suggested that I seek you out and tell you about my newly self-published novel . . . I was told that you would be able to help me network with others like myself with a passion for good Christian Horror.
I've decided to answer here in hopes that I can help more than just this one author. First, OMG!!!! How many times have I said it. Writers, if you're a Christian seeking publication do NOT jump at any writer's conference that slaps the label Christian on it. There are sooooo many writer's conferences and any label should, if nothing else, let you know that it's for a specific market. This Writer's Conference, like 99.9% of every other writer's conference called Christian, is specifically for those wanting to be published by a CBA or ECPA affiliated publisher. How can you tell? Look at the editors present. Each, if not every one of them, are from CBA or ECPA affiliated houses. What blows my mind is Marcher Lord Press was at this conference as well and still this person was sent to me? I thought MLP was to help those authors writing outside of CBA and ECPA's narrow market. Well, I know that MLP was set up to do this but the fact is, they serve a narrow market as well. Just not as narrow as CBA or ECPA.
Okay so now for the help. You're self-published. Not a problem. I self-published initially before getting hooked up with a small traditional publisher, (who has since bit the dust as far as traditional publishers go,) so there's nothing wrong with that. BUT (yes the big but)if you are looking for a traditional publisher, which it seems you are, get your work professionally edited. It's worth every penny, especially for this author.
Why?
Because neither CBA or ECPA is going to take his work EVER. They don't publish horror. They do publish things they call horror for the sake of calling it that but it doesn't appeal to anyone outside their narrow market of evangelicals (with rare exceptions like The Left Behind Series that doesn't seem to ever die though many express concerns on blogs that they wish it would) and doesn't sale well enough for them to take on ANY author not willing to compromise their story to fit their mold.
And why in the world would CCWC send a Christian writer who paid to go to their conference to me? Gorsh! They didn't even send him to my publisher which makes more sense. I'm an author.
Now for some more advise. Sorry dude, but don't call it Christian Horror for right now. It will turn general market readers off right away, (yes Christian general market readers included which is actually a much larger market than CBA and ECPA market readers.) They've come to distance themselves from anything called Christian because they've learned it serves that narrow audience they don't like to read.
I know, it's tough but as soon as those readers learn you're just a writer who can churn out a good story that doesn't offend Christians, calling it Christian will only muddle you're market. And if you don't write for the audience of Christian's who visit Christian Bookstores then stop going to conferences geared toward landing a CBA or ECPA affiliated publisher. Seek any small publisher of horror. If it's not overt and targeted fiction, they'll gladly look at your work. But do have it professionally edited because small houses really like not having to put out the time, energy and money to do this. Besides the other guy who you're competing with has already had his MS professionally edited, I guarantee it. :)
I do hope this was helpful.
CCWC referring writers to me. Now that is interesting. Awww, but it makes me feel good I guess.
At CCWC this year, it was suggested that I seek you out and tell you about my newly self-published novel . . . I was told that you would be able to help me network with others like myself with a passion for good Christian Horror.
I've decided to answer here in hopes that I can help more than just this one author. First, OMG!!!! How many times have I said it. Writers, if you're a Christian seeking publication do NOT jump at any writer's conference that slaps the label Christian on it. There are sooooo many writer's conferences and any label should, if nothing else, let you know that it's for a specific market. This Writer's Conference, like 99.9% of every other writer's conference called Christian, is specifically for those wanting to be published by a CBA or ECPA affiliated publisher. How can you tell? Look at the editors present. Each, if not every one of them, are from CBA or ECPA affiliated houses. What blows my mind is Marcher Lord Press was at this conference as well and still this person was sent to me? I thought MLP was to help those authors writing outside of CBA and ECPA's narrow market. Well, I know that MLP was set up to do this but the fact is, they serve a narrow market as well. Just not as narrow as CBA or ECPA.
Okay so now for the help. You're self-published. Not a problem. I self-published initially before getting hooked up with a small traditional publisher, (who has since bit the dust as far as traditional publishers go,) so there's nothing wrong with that. BUT (yes the big but)if you are looking for a traditional publisher, which it seems you are, get your work professionally edited. It's worth every penny, especially for this author.
Why?
Because neither CBA or ECPA is going to take his work EVER. They don't publish horror. They do publish things they call horror for the sake of calling it that but it doesn't appeal to anyone outside their narrow market of evangelicals (with rare exceptions like The Left Behind Series that doesn't seem to ever die though many express concerns on blogs that they wish it would) and doesn't sale well enough for them to take on ANY author not willing to compromise their story to fit their mold.
And why in the world would CCWC send a Christian writer who paid to go to their conference to me? Gorsh! They didn't even send him to my publisher which makes more sense. I'm an author.
Now for some more advise. Sorry dude, but don't call it Christian Horror for right now. It will turn general market readers off right away, (yes Christian general market readers included which is actually a much larger market than CBA and ECPA market readers.) They've come to distance themselves from anything called Christian because they've learned it serves that narrow audience they don't like to read.
I know, it's tough but as soon as those readers learn you're just a writer who can churn out a good story that doesn't offend Christians, calling it Christian will only muddle you're market. And if you don't write for the audience of Christian's who visit Christian Bookstores then stop going to conferences geared toward landing a CBA or ECPA affiliated publisher. Seek any small publisher of horror. If it's not overt and targeted fiction, they'll gladly look at your work. But do have it professionally edited because small houses really like not having to put out the time, energy and money to do this. Besides the other guy who you're competing with has already had his MS professionally edited, I guarantee it. :)
I do hope this was helpful.
CCWC referring writers to me. Now that is interesting. Awww, but it makes me feel good I guess.
First review of Never Ceese!
If I remember correctly, this is the first review but I could be wrong. Keep in mind when Clint speaks of Christian Fiction and what is needed to classify a work as such, he's not referring to Christian Fiction put out by publishers who pay to be affiliated with either the Christian Booksellers Association or the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association. He's talking about Christian Fiction as most everyone views it. This is very important to keep in mind since both CBA and ECPA use this label to identify their narrowly targeted Christian Fiction. There's seems to be so much confusion out there about this, I just like to make sure and clarify when I can. ;)
Okay, read on. :)
Clint Smith
Author/Former State Legislator
Military Historian/Film Historian
Vampire and werewolf myths go back generations and have captured the fancy of many a culture. Classic books of the late nineteenth century and cinema renditions of the legendary creatures from the early days of Hollywood have played a role in shaping our imaginations. People are attracted to the mysterious icons of horror and fear. But why are vampires and werewolves so popular? Could it be our ability to relate to them? These poor creatures walk amongst us, interacting, embracing and engaging in most any setting -as long as it takes place under the cover of darkness. And most readers probably believe that the story lines have all been exhausted. But along comes Sue Dent's provocative, bittersweet and unpredictable novel, Never Ceese. It takes the two classic monster legends and incorporates them into the Christian fiction genre in a way that both entertains and witnesses to the glory of God. The plot grabs your interest immediately and takes you on a thrill ride. Darkness and evil are important ingredients of the story. But the story is spiced with enough humor to lighten the mood at appropriate times. And yet the spiritual themes so essential to Christian fiction are interwoven with a fascinatingly dramatic style. Adults and teens alike will be captivated by Never Ceese. Sue Dent hails from Mississippi, a state steeped in the heritage of literary giants who would all tip their hats, curtsy or raise a toast to their native daughter's tale. It successfully crosses the fantasy, horror and Christian fiction genres. Dent imparts spiritual themes in a provocative and thought-provoking manner. Bram Stoker, Anne Rice . . . . They've got nothing on Sue Dent! The author's fans appreciate her ability to weave a plot that captures your heart, stirs your emotions, and leaves you yearning for more. Good news readers! A sequel is in the works - 'Forever Richard'.
Okay, read on. :)
Clint Smith
Author/Former State Legislator
Military Historian/Film Historian
Vampire and werewolf myths go back generations and have captured the fancy of many a culture. Classic books of the late nineteenth century and cinema renditions of the legendary creatures from the early days of Hollywood have played a role in shaping our imaginations. People are attracted to the mysterious icons of horror and fear. But why are vampires and werewolves so popular? Could it be our ability to relate to them? These poor creatures walk amongst us, interacting, embracing and engaging in most any setting -as long as it takes place under the cover of darkness. And most readers probably believe that the story lines have all been exhausted. But along comes Sue Dent's provocative, bittersweet and unpredictable novel, Never Ceese. It takes the two classic monster legends and incorporates them into the Christian fiction genre in a way that both entertains and witnesses to the glory of God. The plot grabs your interest immediately and takes you on a thrill ride. Darkness and evil are important ingredients of the story. But the story is spiced with enough humor to lighten the mood at appropriate times. And yet the spiritual themes so essential to Christian fiction are interwoven with a fascinatingly dramatic style. Adults and teens alike will be captivated by Never Ceese. Sue Dent hails from Mississippi, a state steeped in the heritage of literary giants who would all tip their hats, curtsy or raise a toast to their native daughter's tale. It successfully crosses the fantasy, horror and Christian fiction genres. Dent imparts spiritual themes in a provocative and thought-provoking manner. Bram Stoker, Anne Rice . . . . They've got nothing on Sue Dent! The author's fans appreciate her ability to weave a plot that captures your heart, stirs your emotions, and leaves you yearning for more. Good news readers! A sequel is in the works - 'Forever Richard'.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Jackson Free Press Review of Never Ceese
The Jackson Free Press is a local paper here in Jackson. Here is Lynette Hanson's review of Never Ceese.
Never Ceese - Paperback
ISBN: 9780976994701
by Lynette Hanson
April 19, 2006
In her first novel, Jacksonian Sue Dent paints a vivid picture of the trials and tribulations of family life and love. But you shouldn’t think that “Never Ceese” (Journey Stone Creations, 2006, $12.99) details a life like the one lived by Beaver Cleaver: Dent populates this book she calls a spiritual fantasy with other-worldly characters.
I, for one, never thought before to try this style of novel since I lean toward mysteries and Southerners who write about the South, but I found Dent’s tale of determination one I couldn’t put down. It gave me pause to read of Richard’s drinking blood he had warmed a bit in the microwave, blood he’s gleaned from sources found on his computer. Right away, I realized that Dent’s two main characters, Richard the vampire and Ceese the werewolf, break the stereotypical movie mold for these creatures. Getting inside their heads and learning what makes them tick is just one reward you’ll receive in reading “Never Ceese.”
Never Ceese - Paperback
ISBN: 9780976994701
by Lynette Hanson
April 19, 2006
In her first novel, Jacksonian Sue Dent paints a vivid picture of the trials and tribulations of family life and love. But you shouldn’t think that “Never Ceese” (Journey Stone Creations, 2006, $12.99) details a life like the one lived by Beaver Cleaver: Dent populates this book she calls a spiritual fantasy with other-worldly characters.
I, for one, never thought before to try this style of novel since I lean toward mysteries and Southerners who write about the South, but I found Dent’s tale of determination one I couldn’t put down. It gave me pause to read of Richard’s drinking blood he had warmed a bit in the microwave, blood he’s gleaned from sources found on his computer. Right away, I realized that Dent’s two main characters, Richard the vampire and Ceese the werewolf, break the stereotypical movie mold for these creatures. Getting inside their heads and learning what makes them tick is just one reward you’ll receive in reading “Never Ceese.”
Monday, June 22, 2009
Eric Wilson's review of Never Ceese
This review was one of the first real signs that I'd tapped into a market I didn't even know existed. Eric Wilson writes for CBA affiliated Thomas Nelson. When he refers to Christian fiction he's referring to the work put out by CBA affiliated publishers. Other than that, there are no boundaries to be pushed. Christians have been writing for the general market forever and appealing to other Christians. And learning that CBA targets a narrow market of Christians and restricts normal writing conventions to protect that market, I'd hardly call myself circling the camp. LOL More like running from it as fast as I can (I don't write like that.) Overall however, the review shows that a Christian writing for the general market can actually appeal to this audience . . . even when said author didn't know this audience existed. :)
Review of Never Ceese - Paperback
ISBN: 9780976994701
Eric Wilson
Author of Fireproof
Sue Dent has done the unthinkable. She's pushed the boundaries of Christian fiction, circling the camp with a small publisher, howling for someone to take notice. And it's working.
"Never Ceese" is a blend of traditional vampire themes and modern smart-mouthed characters. Ceese is a werewolf on her way to a British castle, where she will rendezvous with Richard the vampire. Ceese is in a constant struggle with "the wolf" inside, while Richard is trying to maintain a modicum of control over his fang-toothed desires. This unlikely pair, united by an old woman named Penny, discover they have mutual childhood links. As they travel to meet a young college-age researcher, their pasts come to light. Romance flits about in unexpected places. And a self-seeking professor angles to take their immortality for himself.
The standbys are in play--garlic, crucifixes, wolfsbane, etc--but Dent adds a few of her own elements to this classic battle between the old ways and new. There are few surprises, but the story moves at a quick pace, leavened with humorous dialogue and clever insights. Dent's characters struggle with their cursed sinful natures, seeking release--if such a thing is possible.
In the end, all is resolved--if not a bit suddenly on some levels--and possibilities are left open for the sequel, "Forever Richard." I guess I know what book to add to my Christmas list. With Dent circling the camp, someone's bound to wake up to this genre's possibilities.
Review of Never Ceese - Paperback
ISBN: 9780976994701
Eric Wilson
Author of Fireproof
Sue Dent has done the unthinkable. She's pushed the boundaries of Christian fiction, circling the camp with a small publisher, howling for someone to take notice. And it's working.
"Never Ceese" is a blend of traditional vampire themes and modern smart-mouthed characters. Ceese is a werewolf on her way to a British castle, where she will rendezvous with Richard the vampire. Ceese is in a constant struggle with "the wolf" inside, while Richard is trying to maintain a modicum of control over his fang-toothed desires. This unlikely pair, united by an old woman named Penny, discover they have mutual childhood links. As they travel to meet a young college-age researcher, their pasts come to light. Romance flits about in unexpected places. And a self-seeking professor angles to take their immortality for himself.
The standbys are in play--garlic, crucifixes, wolfsbane, etc--but Dent adds a few of her own elements to this classic battle between the old ways and new. There are few surprises, but the story moves at a quick pace, leavened with humorous dialogue and clever insights. Dent's characters struggle with their cursed sinful natures, seeking release--if such a thing is possible.
In the end, all is resolved--if not a bit suddenly on some levels--and possibilities are left open for the sequel, "Forever Richard." I guess I know what book to add to my Christmas list. With Dent circling the camp, someone's bound to wake up to this genre's possibilities.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Horror World review of Never Ceese
This is a very close second to the review given by Nicholas Grabowsky. W.D. Gagliani, author of Wolf's Trap, is also a very well respected Horror writer. Do check him out. To see the review in its entirety please go to Horror World.org and scroll down.
NEVER CEESE By Sue Dent
S D Enterprisess
ISBN: 9780976994701
Review by W.D. Gagliani
When you hear the term "Christian horror" it's likely you'll think of the Left Behind series first, even though its readers probably don't think of it as horror. But slowly, there appears to be a subgenre unfolding, coming to terms with the inherent contradictions of the term Christian horror and finding that (like "Christian rock" or "Christian metal") shades of light and dark can be used to impart a moral with or without overt bloodshed . . . The book's publicity states: "Can two who were wronged make it right?" Herein lies one of its charming twists. Ceese and Richard hate each other on sight, and rub each other the wrong way no matter what they do. But Penelope coerces them into tolerating each other by using their love for her. The result is amusing. You might say, "Can a persnickety vampire and an uncouth werewolf share a Welsh castle without driving each other crazy?" (Cue pipe organ version of The Odd Couple theme.) . . . Older readers may wonder why Richard and Ceese don't utilize more of their powers against their enemies, but it's clearly done to de-emphasize the dark natures of the monsters in order to increase their humanity . . . The straightforward prose, vivid action and moral crises of the rather chaste versions of our favorite so-called monsters will enthrall audiences who want less darkness in their horror. Those of us who may be somewhat jaded will find it mild, but may still appreciate the monsters' heroic efforts and the author's crisp storytelling.
NEVER CEESE By Sue Dent
S D Enterprisess
ISBN: 9780976994701
Review by W.D. Gagliani
When you hear the term "Christian horror" it's likely you'll think of the Left Behind series first, even though its readers probably don't think of it as horror. But slowly, there appears to be a subgenre unfolding, coming to terms with the inherent contradictions of the term Christian horror and finding that (like "Christian rock" or "Christian metal") shades of light and dark can be used to impart a moral with or without overt bloodshed . . . The book's publicity states: "Can two who were wronged make it right?" Herein lies one of its charming twists. Ceese and Richard hate each other on sight, and rub each other the wrong way no matter what they do. But Penelope coerces them into tolerating each other by using their love for her. The result is amusing. You might say, "Can a persnickety vampire and an uncouth werewolf share a Welsh castle without driving each other crazy?" (Cue pipe organ version of The Odd Couple theme.) . . . Older readers may wonder why Richard and Ceese don't utilize more of their powers against their enemies, but it's clearly done to de-emphasize the dark natures of the monsters in order to increase their humanity . . . The straightforward prose, vivid action and moral crises of the rather chaste versions of our favorite so-called monsters will enthrall audiences who want less darkness in their horror. Those of us who may be somewhat jaded will find it mild, but may still appreciate the monsters' heroic efforts and the author's crisp storytelling.
Oh my, what's a Literary Agent?
Oh my, what's a Literary Agent? Sounds intriguing. What's that you say? Someone who will help me find a publisher, for a price. Yikes. I'll stay away from that then. LOL
Okay. In an effort to keep the gusto going, I'll be reposting reviews from Never Ceese and Forever Richard . . . just because. My first one to go up is by far my favorite and most coveted. It comes from Nicholas Grabowsky whose own writing as earned praise from the likes of Clive Barker and Stephen King. This is Nicholas' review of Never Ceese:
Never Ceese
S D Enterprises
ISBN: 9780976994701
First, some fun and facts:
When my office received this book, a handsome hardcover from Journey Stone Creations, and it found its way to my hands, I looked it over thoroughly and sent author Sue Dent an email confirming its receipt. On an odd note, the wolf on its cover was exactly the same wolf on my computer screen's wallpaper, and I held one up to the other amused. I'd been made aware of Sue's existence while browsing through that vast social bird's nest called Myspace, we corresponded a few times, and here I have her novel as a result. I was particularly drawn to it because it boasted traditional Protestant Christian-inclined values and overtones so much so that even Christian book stores should welcome it. And it's a horror novel, in essence. About vampires and werewolves.
Well, well.
Back during what would become my last years of preaching and active church-going worship, I originally set out to complete my first horror novel as a Christian allegory. And I wasn't the only one doing it. Nowadays, though I've never since then and to this day was inclined to check out what's going on in anything peddled as Christian/Suspense/Supernatural or even stepped into a Christian book store (that I recall), I'm aware of some good writing in itself going on there. The current trend of Last Days apocalyptic fiction is at an all-time high, that I know, and in spite of entire communities banning Harry Potter from libraries, C.S. Lewis-type fantasies seem to have become an increasingly popular trend also in that market.
But enough of that, and my sudden editorial lapse by no means suggests Never Ceese is churchy. Yes, the storyline carries with it a cover-to-cover essence of biblical morality and overall themes of redemption through want and sacrifice, and there is absolutely nothing about its content that I can imagine would incline parents to object to their young teens reading it. I think parents and teens alike would be utterly thrilled to read it, which brings us now to the basics without beating around the bush any further.
I simply can't give Sue Dent enough praise for this work. I truly adored it. It read like the work of a master storyteller, its narrative virtually flawless. At first it seemed like it was going to be a period piece, and throughout that portion of the book it was atmospheric and foreboding.
The approach Dent takes is that werewolves and vampires are essentially human beings carrying a curse which strips them of almost any hope of redemption, salvation, and most of the popular basic rules regarding their nature apply, save that vampires themselves are undead in predominant lore. Ceese, or Cecilia, has the werewolf curse and has been wandering the earth in wolf form for a few hundred years or so because of it. She is summoned by an aging friend who lives in an isolated English castle whose resident vampire, Richard, has cared for her for a long time. Fearful of the knowledge that if he should feed on a human being his curse would be absolute, he instead feeds on the blood of the goats of local herdsmen or blood he purchases off the internet. Before she dies, the friend sends Ceese and Richard to New York in pursuit of a possible cure for their curses via stem cell research, where an evil university professor awaits their arrival in an obsessive search for the power of eternal life.
This is Sue Dent's first work, and I am very proud of her. Very imaginative, stylistic, and highly entertaining, she excels without compromise to personal belief and the learned expertise it takes to write so well. I highly recommend it, and I can't recommend it enough.
Okay. In an effort to keep the gusto going, I'll be reposting reviews from Never Ceese and Forever Richard . . . just because. My first one to go up is by far my favorite and most coveted. It comes from Nicholas Grabowsky whose own writing as earned praise from the likes of Clive Barker and Stephen King. This is Nicholas' review of Never Ceese:
Never Ceese
S D Enterprises
ISBN: 9780976994701
First, some fun and facts:
When my office received this book, a handsome hardcover from Journey Stone Creations, and it found its way to my hands, I looked it over thoroughly and sent author Sue Dent an email confirming its receipt. On an odd note, the wolf on its cover was exactly the same wolf on my computer screen's wallpaper, and I held one up to the other amused. I'd been made aware of Sue's existence while browsing through that vast social bird's nest called Myspace, we corresponded a few times, and here I have her novel as a result. I was particularly drawn to it because it boasted traditional Protestant Christian-inclined values and overtones so much so that even Christian book stores should welcome it. And it's a horror novel, in essence. About vampires and werewolves.
Well, well.
Back during what would become my last years of preaching and active church-going worship, I originally set out to complete my first horror novel as a Christian allegory. And I wasn't the only one doing it. Nowadays, though I've never since then and to this day was inclined to check out what's going on in anything peddled as Christian/Suspense/Supernatural or even stepped into a Christian book store (that I recall), I'm aware of some good writing in itself going on there. The current trend of Last Days apocalyptic fiction is at an all-time high, that I know, and in spite of entire communities banning Harry Potter from libraries, C.S. Lewis-type fantasies seem to have become an increasingly popular trend also in that market.
But enough of that, and my sudden editorial lapse by no means suggests Never Ceese is churchy. Yes, the storyline carries with it a cover-to-cover essence of biblical morality and overall themes of redemption through want and sacrifice, and there is absolutely nothing about its content that I can imagine would incline parents to object to their young teens reading it. I think parents and teens alike would be utterly thrilled to read it, which brings us now to the basics without beating around the bush any further.
I simply can't give Sue Dent enough praise for this work. I truly adored it. It read like the work of a master storyteller, its narrative virtually flawless. At first it seemed like it was going to be a period piece, and throughout that portion of the book it was atmospheric and foreboding.
The approach Dent takes is that werewolves and vampires are essentially human beings carrying a curse which strips them of almost any hope of redemption, salvation, and most of the popular basic rules regarding their nature apply, save that vampires themselves are undead in predominant lore. Ceese, or Cecilia, has the werewolf curse and has been wandering the earth in wolf form for a few hundred years or so because of it. She is summoned by an aging friend who lives in an isolated English castle whose resident vampire, Richard, has cared for her for a long time. Fearful of the knowledge that if he should feed on a human being his curse would be absolute, he instead feeds on the blood of the goats of local herdsmen or blood he purchases off the internet. Before she dies, the friend sends Ceese and Richard to New York in pursuit of a possible cure for their curses via stem cell research, where an evil university professor awaits their arrival in an obsessive search for the power of eternal life.
This is Sue Dent's first work, and I am very proud of her. Very imaginative, stylistic, and highly entertaining, she excels without compromise to personal belief and the learned expertise it takes to write so well. I highly recommend it, and I can't recommend it enough.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Christian readers - bottle-fed targeted fiction since 1950
Christian readers have, for the most part anyway, been bottle-fed fiction since 1950 when a group of Christian retailers banded together to form the Christian Booksellers Association to provide narrowly targeted fiction to Christian bookstore visitors, so targeted that they didn't even offer it for distribution into larger bookstores. Why would they? The fiction was for Christian Bookstore visitors only, evangelicals as stated at www.cbaonline.org and never intended to be placed on general bookstore shelves.
Christian authors who write and have been writing for the broader general market for years often find themselves at the mercy of some very odd reviews from CBA and ECPA (Evangelical Christian Publishers Association)core market readers who are now accidentally or on purpose, picking up these books to read. While most are gracious and give relatively high marks, the comments can't help but reflect these readers limited exposure to general market work.
Since reviews are supposed to help a reader know whether they'd like to read a book or not, it's important to remember that any kind of slant toward Christianity will most likely warrant the author of said books a few reviews off kilter from the majority. Those would be from our wonderful readers who can only compare books to what they've been reading since 1950.
Christian authors who write and have been writing for the broader general market for years often find themselves at the mercy of some very odd reviews from CBA and ECPA (Evangelical Christian Publishers Association)core market readers who are now accidentally or on purpose, picking up these books to read. While most are gracious and give relatively high marks, the comments can't help but reflect these readers limited exposure to general market work.
Since reviews are supposed to help a reader know whether they'd like to read a book or not, it's important to remember that any kind of slant toward Christianity will most likely warrant the author of said books a few reviews off kilter from the majority. Those would be from our wonderful readers who can only compare books to what they've been reading since 1950.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Small press author gets big time praise!
Of course that's my perspective but you be the judge. Here's a message left for me on Shoutlife, a social network I belong to:
Hi Sue,
I'm at work but I had to stop and write to you. A woman just came into the library to return two "House of Night" books and Forever Richard. She said Forever Richard was far better than the House of Night books and wants to know when your next book will be out.
That's one for the small press authors!
So when is your next book coming out? This lady really, really wanted to know.
I'm glad I made your day. I love it when someone picks up a small press book and discovers a new favorite author. There is a great potential audience out there.
Kara
And here's an entry left on a forum at RomanticTimes.com, a forum that author Kate Douglas started for readers to leave names of books that they found cherishable. Here's the irony. Kate Douglas actually contacted me once to see if we might be related because of a last name we shared. We couldn't prove it one way or the other but then this reader leaves this comment on her forum and Kate remembered me. But now for the comment:
"My book shelves are ridiculously stuffed. I don't just own books, I possess them. I don't buy books, I collect them! It is a really good thing that I'm not rich! Although library book sales are my bane.
My favorite ever, as in I've read eight, nine, times, is Tahn by L.A. Kelly. If ever I'm feeling depressed that book manages to make a showing for a light skimming, and sometimes more. The sequel, Return to Alastair, is nearly as wonderful as the first, but I don't think any book can quite achieve that.
But Tahn isn't the only one. I just got Never Ceese by Sue Dent for my birthday. I was so excited. I love that book! It is so hilarious! If you ever need to laugh, that is the book. And on days that I'm feeling overwhelmed, I immediately go for the paranormal or fantasy, something that is intense and completely not like my life. I'm all into distraction. Something like Patricia Briggs. Ooh, her books are amazing."
Yep, this is a good sign of how my Thirsting for Blood series is doing with general market readers. It continues to do extremly well with readers from that specific market of Christians CBA and ECPA serve as well as they are hungry for good fiction that doesn't offend. On that note I'd like to remind that while readers of that specific market are very accepting, their publishers and those that do blog tours and blogs for their very targeted fiction aren't. I submitted Never Ceese to one blog that claimed to review and list books for the Young Adult Christian market. I asked specifically if these books would be judged against the narrow standards that have come to plague this market. The owner of the blog said no yet now refuses to recommend my book to young adults based on language. Nope. There is no problem with language used in my books for young adults. That's why it's marketed as young adult. I've had fourth graders read and enjoy these books with their parents permission. These books have been deemed and approved as "socially acceptable" to the Christian market which means distribution to CBA and ECPA bookstores (even though no non-affiliated author can get in.)
So there ya go. Onward and upward. It's going to be up to you readers for this small press author to get anywhere fast and THANK YA'LL SO MUCH FOR YOUR HELP!
Love ya'll.
Sue Dent
Hi Sue,
I'm at work but I had to stop and write to you. A woman just came into the library to return two "House of Night" books and Forever Richard. She said Forever Richard was far better than the House of Night books and wants to know when your next book will be out.
That's one for the small press authors!
So when is your next book coming out? This lady really, really wanted to know.
I'm glad I made your day. I love it when someone picks up a small press book and discovers a new favorite author. There is a great potential audience out there.
Kara
And here's an entry left on a forum at RomanticTimes.com, a forum that author Kate Douglas started for readers to leave names of books that they found cherishable. Here's the irony. Kate Douglas actually contacted me once to see if we might be related because of a last name we shared. We couldn't prove it one way or the other but then this reader leaves this comment on her forum and Kate remembered me. But now for the comment:
"My book shelves are ridiculously stuffed. I don't just own books, I possess them. I don't buy books, I collect them! It is a really good thing that I'm not rich! Although library book sales are my bane.
My favorite ever, as in I've read eight, nine, times, is Tahn by L.A. Kelly. If ever I'm feeling depressed that book manages to make a showing for a light skimming, and sometimes more. The sequel, Return to Alastair, is nearly as wonderful as the first, but I don't think any book can quite achieve that.
But Tahn isn't the only one. I just got Never Ceese by Sue Dent for my birthday. I was so excited. I love that book! It is so hilarious! If you ever need to laugh, that is the book. And on days that I'm feeling overwhelmed, I immediately go for the paranormal or fantasy, something that is intense and completely not like my life. I'm all into distraction. Something like Patricia Briggs. Ooh, her books are amazing."
Yep, this is a good sign of how my Thirsting for Blood series is doing with general market readers. It continues to do extremly well with readers from that specific market of Christians CBA and ECPA serve as well as they are hungry for good fiction that doesn't offend. On that note I'd like to remind that while readers of that specific market are very accepting, their publishers and those that do blog tours and blogs for their very targeted fiction aren't. I submitted Never Ceese to one blog that claimed to review and list books for the Young Adult Christian market. I asked specifically if these books would be judged against the narrow standards that have come to plague this market. The owner of the blog said no yet now refuses to recommend my book to young adults based on language. Nope. There is no problem with language used in my books for young adults. That's why it's marketed as young adult. I've had fourth graders read and enjoy these books with their parents permission. These books have been deemed and approved as "socially acceptable" to the Christian market which means distribution to CBA and ECPA bookstores (even though no non-affiliated author can get in.)
So there ya go. Onward and upward. It's going to be up to you readers for this small press author to get anywhere fast and THANK YA'LL SO MUCH FOR YOUR HELP!
Love ya'll.
Sue Dent
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Forever Richard gets all Pirate-ey tom-arrrrrr-ow!
That's right. So pay attention. MaryLu Tyndale has informed me that she'll be givin' Forever Richard away on her blog. I suggest you be gettin' yurself over there if yur wantin' to read it without partin' with the cash. I don't know what got into her but I'm figurin' a bunch of you don't care so long as you don't have to put out the cash for somethin'. Arrrrrrr!!! And just to show ya my good nature, I'm throwin' in one of them blasted hard copies of Never Ceese. If you buy Never Ceese you best be buyin' the paperback or else you'll walk the plank.
Trust me.
I can find a plank.
So there ya go! Now run over to http://www.crossandcutlass.blogspot.com in the morn to get yur chance to win or pop over tonight to get a good seat. Don't know if that's required but it sure couldn't hurt. Pirates can be pretty sneaky I hear.
What arrrrrrrr ya doin'?
I said go!
Forever Richard tours FIRST on 9/11
In case you don't know about FIRST Wild Card Blog Tours, let me explain. It is a blog tour designed to give all authors, who don't come right out and say they aren't Christian, to tour. And what a wonderful thing for authors such as myself who have a host of Christian readers but can't (and won't) tour other Christian Blog Tours because a.) it costs too much and b.) all work is judged against CBA and ECPA standards, two narrowly targeted Christian markets. *gasp* Say it ain't so. Sorry. It's so.
Well, yes. It's a tad bit early to announce this I guess but there will only be twenty-five books available and MANY that I know of on this tour have not been able to put out the cash to purchase Forever Richard. But my publisher has signed off on it and so there ya go!
Just wanted to give everyone the heads up. And for all my wonderful reviewers who tour the CFBA and FIRST together, this will be your only chance to get Forever Richard. CFBA judges books against that standard I was talking about. :)
I would like to emphasize for those who sign up, my publisher, The Writers' Cafe Press, though Christian, is not CBA or ECPA affiliated and therefore is not bound to serve the evangelical market CBA and ECPA were set up to serve. While some stories my publisher puts out are more overt or rather more Biblical than others, they exude a broad Christian worldview. My stories are not overt and are written to appeal to the general market reader (Christians included.) Never Ceese was even short-listed for a Bram Stoker Award. I've toured FIRST before and have been more than pleased with reviewers understanding this and reviewing accordingly. Though readers of CBA and ECPA fiction seem to love my work, it was not written within the standards required by these two affiliations.
Thank-you Mimi for the chance to tour again. I look forward to it!
Well, yes. It's a tad bit early to announce this I guess but there will only be twenty-five books available and MANY that I know of on this tour have not been able to put out the cash to purchase Forever Richard. But my publisher has signed off on it and so there ya go!
Just wanted to give everyone the heads up. And for all my wonderful reviewers who tour the CFBA and FIRST together, this will be your only chance to get Forever Richard. CFBA judges books against that standard I was talking about. :)
I would like to emphasize for those who sign up, my publisher, The Writers' Cafe Press, though Christian, is not CBA or ECPA affiliated and therefore is not bound to serve the evangelical market CBA and ECPA were set up to serve. While some stories my publisher puts out are more overt or rather more Biblical than others, they exude a broad Christian worldview. My stories are not overt and are written to appeal to the general market reader (Christians included.) Never Ceese was even short-listed for a Bram Stoker Award. I've toured FIRST before and have been more than pleased with reviewers understanding this and reviewing accordingly. Though readers of CBA and ECPA fiction seem to love my work, it was not written within the standards required by these two affiliations.
Thank-you Mimi for the chance to tour again. I look forward to it!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Faithwords-cutting edge Christian Fiction or blurring the line?
If I had a vote it would be blurring the line.
At the moment Hatchette books has two imprints for Christian Fiction. Center Street and Faithwords. They describe Center Street as their imprint to handle fiction for "edgier" Christian readers (translated this means CBA readers because CBA has set itself up as the Christian Publishing Industry so anything Christian is inherently designed to appeal to evangelical readers first and anyone else after that.) Faithwords is, according to Hatchette Books FAQ, "exclusively written for Christian audiences." Again the Christian audience in publishing today is defined by CBA. So this would be Hatchette books CBA affiliated imprint.
And to further emphasize this fact, recent reviews of recent releases from Faithwords fall in line with reviews for other CBA or ECPA affiliated books. The work seems to unbelievable for CBA's and ECPA's audience of evangelicals and too overt and targeted for general market Christian readers.
Having said that, their Center Street imprint doesn't seem to offer much hope either. Publishing affiliated authors such as Dekker might be one of the problems. However, I feel the biggest problem is that the Christian Publishing Industry is presently defined by an organization whose market, according to www.cabonline.com is evangelicals and some Catholics.
Amazing isn't it?
But yes, IMO blurring the line is the order of the day. :)
At the moment Hatchette books has two imprints for Christian Fiction. Center Street and Faithwords. They describe Center Street as their imprint to handle fiction for "edgier" Christian readers (translated this means CBA readers because CBA has set itself up as the Christian Publishing Industry so anything Christian is inherently designed to appeal to evangelical readers first and anyone else after that.) Faithwords is, according to Hatchette Books FAQ, "exclusively written for Christian audiences." Again the Christian audience in publishing today is defined by CBA. So this would be Hatchette books CBA affiliated imprint.
And to further emphasize this fact, recent reviews of recent releases from Faithwords fall in line with reviews for other CBA or ECPA affiliated books. The work seems to unbelievable for CBA's and ECPA's audience of evangelicals and too overt and targeted for general market Christian readers.
Having said that, their Center Street imprint doesn't seem to offer much hope either. Publishing affiliated authors such as Dekker might be one of the problems. However, I feel the biggest problem is that the Christian Publishing Industry is presently defined by an organization whose market, according to www.cabonline.com is evangelicals and some Catholics.
Amazing isn't it?
But yes, IMO blurring the line is the order of the day. :)
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Forever Richard passes the true test!
That's right no endorsement from Publisher's Weekly or any other first-line reviewers (that's all a racket anyway) well, except for the outstanding endorsement from the British Fantasy Society by my own hands (and what an endorsement!) But yes, two thumbs up from Mom! I actually thought it a fluke when she read Never Ceese and then made a call to tell me she enjoyed it very much. This is a woman (though loved dearly) who often compliments by telling you what's wrong. LOL Well, at least when it comes to her real kids, not her grand kids of course. They get the "Memaw" treatment. :)
The encouraging words told to me over dinner at Applebee's, "I told Judy(my younger sister by one year) that I don't usually enjoy these kind of stories but that girl can write." That sound you hear is me choking on a shrimp at Applebee's where we'd gone to eat. LOL She was on chapter 31.
So for Caprice, you've got another Rodney hater and Geoffrey lover and for me, I get to keep a fan. So stick that up your pipe and smoke it all you front-line reviewers who cater to authors who don't need your stupid help.
Beat that!
You can't so don't even try.
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