Author News

Marsha Says: “Social Media Is Where It’s At For Books & Brand Marketing.”

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Author News, Book Promotion Tips For Authors, Featured Guest, Marketing and More, Posts , , , ,

We are happy to have a new ‘Guest Article’ by my good friend and PR Insider Marsha Friedman, CEO at EMSI Public Relations.

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Marsha Friedman


Marsha has been my PR go to girl for a long time and she knows the public relations and media business like no other. So here is a new featured article about using social media to your advantage with your brand as an author and book promoting. As social media is a must for promoting your book, find your readership, and build you social media following! I wish all authors much success!  Catherine Lyon “-)

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Are You Set Up For A Successful
Social Media Campaign?
by: Marsha Friedman


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After months – or more likely years – of hearing about how you need to include social media as a vital part of your branding strategy, you’re finally convinced.

You’ve decided to take the plunge!

But hold on there! While you want to take advantage of this up-to-date venue for promoting your personal or business brand, are you properly prepared to take on a social media campaign that will accomplish your goals?

Actually, you may not be! It’s not enough to establish Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and other social media accounts and just expect good things to happen without any more effort.

First things first:  You need to lay the right groundwork. The following are necessities for properly leveraging social media for branding purposes:

  • A website is a must. On social media, you’ll tweet, you’ll post and you’ll share. But the ultimate goal is to drive your target audience to your professionally designed website – or at least a quality landing page – so they can learn even more about you and/or your business.
  • Be ready with content worth viewing. When your followers click on your links and are directed to your website, they should be rewarded with something more substantial than a sales pitch.  Share your valuable expertise with them so that hanging out on your website is worth their while. Maintain a blog or provide useful information in tips articles, video blogs, infographics or a white paper. Include a call to action.  Invite them to sign up for worthwhile information via your mailing list.  This enables you to stay in front of them whenever their need for your product or service arises.
  • Someone needs to take charge. Social media isn’t something you set and forget. Someone needs to oversee your social media; otherwise it’s likely to die on the vine. So, how will you handle this? It’s not the best idea to assign it as an additional duty for someone already slammed with responsibilities.  It needs to be handed to someone for whom the work will be a priority.  A successful social media campaign requires knowledge, skill and persistence.  Effective social media marketing simply cannot be treated as an afterthought.

That third bullet point is perhaps the most crucial because – regardless of how well the groundwork is laid – nothing is accomplished without the right person executing a smart strategy to build your brand.

And just any random person is not likely to do this well.

Sure, most of us have become at least marginally adept at liking, commenting, sharing and tweeting, but a genuine social media expert will have a formal and professional background in their craft. This is vital for ensuring that your social media channels play a legitimate role in the overall marketing strategy behind your brand or product.

Social media managers continually hone their knowledge and keep up to date with trends in both social media and marketing. Such experience and focus are vital to ensuring your social media follows a well thought out and effective strategy.

So if you haven’t already, start getting those pieces of a successful social media campaign lined up.

With your website or landing page humming, with terrific content ready to give visitors valuable information, and with a person or team in place to oversee the strategy, you’ll be ready to launch.
All set?  Come visit out website for information and tips on marketing and sign up for our free newsletter while your their!

       
Marsha

Presented By ~ Lyon Book and Social Media Promotions ~ Catherine Lyon

Introducing the third book in the John J. Cannon Trilogy~ By John W. Howell, Author.

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Author News, Posts , , , ,

Introducing the third book in the John J. Cannon Trilogy – Our Justice

 

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About Book Three in The Trilogy:

The terrorist leader and financier Matt Jacobs has figured out a way to eliminate the President. He is relying on John Cannon’s stature as a hero to help him carry it off. John finds himself walking the fine line of pretending to help Matt while trying to figure out a countermeasure to the plan.

The action begins with John fearing for his life. Clearly, whoever is trying to get him has a mission to accomplish and the elimination of John is at the top of the to-do list. The quest to survive takes John and his love, Stephanie from the beaches of Port Aransas to West Virginia and finally to Matt Jacob’s corporate headquarters at the Embarcadero Center in San Francisco. There John finally understands what he needs to do to protect both he and Stephanie from further mayhem.

The third book in the John J. Cannon Trilogy brings together two strong wills for a showdown. The question to be answered is who will feel the satisfaction that the achievement of justice delivers? John, Matt or neither?

Our Justice is available on Amazon and KDP now in e-book format for preorder at $2.99 with shipments starting on September 23rd. The paper edition will be available on Amazon September 23rd at $14.99. Here is the link for pre-order of the e-book Pre-order on Kindle.

EXCERPT:


I see out of the corner of my eye that Ned is on the phone. Hopefully, he’s calling in reinforcements since it looks like the SUV is gaining on us. Just as the rear window of the Focus blows inward, he finishes the call. Hundreds of pieces of glass hit Ned and me. Luckily, it’s shatterproof stuff, so we’re mostly okay cut wise. Ned crouches down and fires three quick shots with his 9MM. In the mirror, the SUV swerves to the left and almost explodes after it rams a parked car. “Stop,” Ned yells.

I slam on the brakes, which nearly tosses Ned through the windshield. “For shit’s sake, I don’t have a seatbelt on, junior, so take it easy. Just stop and turn around.”

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About The Author:

John’s main interests are reading and writing. He turned to writing as a full-time occupation after an extensive career in business. John writes fictional short stories and novels as well as a daily blog. His first novel, My GRL is available on Amazon and wherever e-books are sold. His second, His Revenge is available on Amazon and KDP Select.

John lives on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of South Texas with his wife and spoiled rescue pets.

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Connect With The Author:
Blog Fiction Favorites – http://johnwhowell.com/

Facebook– https://www.facebook.com/john.howell.98229241

Twitter –https://www.twitter.com/HowellWave

Authors db –http://www.authorsdb.com/authors-directory/6604-john-w-howell

LinkedIn –http://www.linkedin.com/pub/john-w-howell/48/b59/462/

Google +https://plus.google.com/+JohnHowellAuthor/

Goodreads –https://www.goodreads.com/johnwhowell/

Amazon Author’s page –https://www.amazon.com/author/johnwhowell

Martin Sisters Publishing –Http://www.martinsisterspublishing.com

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Thanks Readers for Visiting!

 

~Fabulous Cover Reveal & Editorial Review for The New Kim Carter Mystery~ “Murder Among The Tombstones”

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Author News, Book Review Post, Posts , , , , , ,

“What can I tell you about Authoress of Mystery Thriller reads? Her new release; the follow-up to “Sweet Dreams, Baby Belle” titled, “Murder Among The TOMBSTONES: A Clara & Iris Mystery,”

That’s WHAT!

And oh my are the early Galley Book Reviews FABULOUS!

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“MURDER Among The TOMBSTONES’ ~ Who’s body will turn up next in THE ATL?”

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About The Authoress:

Kim Carter, Author and prolific writer of contemporary Mystery, Suspense and Thriller books, is a fan favorite among her avid readers with her array of released mystery titles like; “When Dawn Never Comes,”  “Deadly Odds,”  “No Second Chances” and “Sweet Dreams, Baby Belle.” Her soon to release mystery titled;  “Murder Among The TOMBSTONES”  and Kim’s #5 new book under her belt.

Kim has been writing mysteries for some time and has a large reader fan base who enjoys all her mystery, suspenseful books, and it shows with the many 5-Star book reviews given by her readers. She continues to write for her mystery fans, as she enjoys interacting and engaging with all of them.

Kim and her husband have raised three successful grown children and have vested in retired greyhound dogs as they enjoy attending the many events held annually for them, as well as educating others about their need for great homes and what great pets they make after retirement.

Kim, a college graduate of Saint Leo University, she has a Bachelor Degree of Arts in Sociology. She has worked in Human Services in the Grant Division before becoming an author and writer. She lives in the Atlanta, Georgia area. Between reading and traveling with her beautiful family, she will continue to write mysteries for some time for all her avid reader fans. You can visit and connect with her now on Goodreads: Kim Carter Mysteries On Goodreads .

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(See, even Kim’s son Austin and his doggie Olive enjoy reading Kim Carter Mysteries!)

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Editorial Review:
By Author, Ronald E. Yates was a foreign correspondent for the Chicago Tribune and Professor Emeritus of Journalism at the University of Illinois.

REVIEW:

“Two crafty septuagenarian widows turned private investigators; a crabby Atlanta cop recovering from a gunshot wound; and a cunning killer who dumps his victims rather appropriately in cemeteries. Those are just a few of the zesty ingredients in Murder among the Tombstones, the latest whodunit by Georgia-based mystery writer Kim Carter. It’s a fast-paced, twister of a mystery that keeps you turning pages until the very end. Readers are going to Rave about this one!”

~Author, Ronald E. Yates, Chicago Tribune . . . .

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So keep watching for this one reader’s as it will be releasing in a few in a few weeks! Other books by Kim Carter Mysteries and All Available Here on  Amazon Online!

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“LYON BOOK & SOCIAL MEDIA PROMOTIONS”

 

New Book Release and Author Interview With Nancy LaPointe,”Faith’s Illusions.”

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Author News, Featured Guest, New Book & Author Press Release, Posts , , , , ,

“It is not every day you come across a person that is bursting with joy, faith, and kindness. This is what you will find within my new friend and Author, Nancy LaPointe. You will also read this throughout all of her wonderful books including her new release, “Faith’s Illusions.”  .   .  .  

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About The New Release:

Newspaper Reporter Laurel Kingston leaves everything behind to begin a new life in Phoenix, Arizona. Planning her wedding to fellow reporter Carter Bradley is exciting, but life in Phoenix is a big transition for this southern girl. The strong faith Carter shares in her bring’s hope and promise for wedded bliss.

But questionable practices in the church arise to cause tension and a blanket of darkness that seems unexplainable. Conflict builds as each examines their own personal beliefs and realizes how strongly they stick to their convictions. Can their love survive the conflict? As family crises, wedding plans and career stresses challenge the couple, God steps in with interesting and inspiring solutions. A story that will encourage readers to examine their own personal beliefs and foundation of faith.

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About The Author:

Nancy LaPointe is a pastoral counselor, certified life coach, and ordained pastor. She has written for newspapers, newsletters, blogs, and magazines for about twenty years, always with a focus on the power of God’s healing. Her books carry a central theme of spiritual growth, inspiring even through fiction. Leading women’s retreats and Bible studies, she is passionate about helping people find emotional healing and learning to walk in freedom. Nancy enjoys living with her family in the beautiful mountains of New Mexico.

 

 
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My Interview With Nancy .  .  .  .

1.) How did come to writing and publishing books?

I have always enjoyed writing, as far back as grade school. A few years ago I decided it was time to write more seriously. I had published magazine articles and newsletters with my different places of employment, including regular newspaper articles, but I wanted to write a book. I believe God was in it as He was continually putting ideas in my heart. Then I knew it was time to take the plunge and just go for it!

2.) Are there authors or books that have influenced you and your writing?

I have been strongly influenced in my writing life by Julia Cameron, whose books on creativity stir up the passion in me. Her book, “The Artist’s Way,” to me is a book all writers should experience. I’ve worked through the workbook portion several times. My spiritual life and writing are definitely influenced by Francis Frangipane and also Ann Voskamp’s “One Thousand Gifts.” There are more, but these are probably the top contenders.


3.)  What is your “Motto about Life”?
“Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle. ”


4.) How many books you have written?

I have written three books. The first, “Living in God’s Rest…At Peace in a Chaotic World,” shares some valuable life lessons about slowing down and resting in God, which brings peace to all areas of life. My other two books are Christian novels which carry underlying themes regarding living the Christian life in a sometimes confusing world.


5.)  What are your Favorites:

Favorite Books: Bible , The Artist’s Way

Movie: Steel Magnolias

Foods: Green chile, pecans, coconut and of course, chocolate

Color:  Purple

Animal: Dogs


6.)  We know a little about you from your Amazon Author Page, but what are some hobbies and interests?

I enjoy oil painting, reading, playing with my puppy and spending time with friends and family. I’m a flea market junkie, and DIYer so enjoy refurbishing old furniture. HGTV is my inspiration.


7.) Lastly, how about family life? Do you have grown children? A grandma?

I have one daughter, a talented writer and website developer, who is building a tiny house right now. She has one daughter, my only grandchild, who of course, is gorgeous, brilliant and a gymnastics star. We lost my husband to cancer in April so our little family has had much to deal with, but we are blessed with a huge extended family who brings lots of joy and support to our lives.

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Now we all know a little more about Nancy. I hope you will do yourself a big favor and visit her wonderful Author Website and Blog called;  Nancy’s View
You may also connect with Author, Nancy LaPointe all over social media.

Let her know Catherine sent you!
Connect with Nancy  On Facebook  –  on Twitter –  on Google+  –  and on GoodReads
For a list of all Nancy’s books, visit her  Amazon Author Page.

Reviews: Ronald E Yates and The Billy Battles Trilogy Book One & Two.

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Author News, Book Review Post, Featured Guest, Posts , , , , ,

Nothing but Action and Adventure will be
found in The Billy Battles Trilogy by Author
Ronald E. Yates.

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Introduction:

The novel’s narrator is the great-grandson of Billy Battles, whom he meets for the first time when the old man is nearing the end of his days. The story unfolds from there, in this case. underpinned by letters and diaries as well as the old man’s recollections, taking the reader on a rollicking romp through the Wild West. There are smatterings of fact about the  historical characters who appear throughout this first volume of what is designed as a trilogy. The book conveys a real-life ambiance through the author’s diligence in whipping up authentic Kansas dialogue.

The Finding Billy Battles trilogy tells the amazing story of a man who is born in 1860 and who dies in 1960. In between Billy lives an improbable and staggering life of adventure, peril, transgression. and redemption. Then Bill mysteriously disappears. For several decades his family has no idea where he is or what he is doing.

Finally, with his life coming to an end, Billy resurfaces in an old soldiers’ home in Leavenworth, Kansas. It is there when he is 98 that he meets his 12-year-old great-grandson and bequeaths his journals and his other property to him — though he is not to receive them until he is much older.

Years later, the great-grandson finally reads the journals and fashions a three volume trilogy that tells of his great-grandfather’s audacious life in the old west, as well as his journeys to the Far East of the 1890s–includingFrench Indochina and The Philippines–and finally, in the early 20thcentury, to Europe and Latin America where his adventures and predicaments continue.One thing readers can be sure of, wherever Billy Battles goes trouble is not far behind.

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REVIEWS:

5.0 out of 5 stars Mind-Blowing, August 15, 2016 ~ The Improbable Journeys of Billy Battles:

Book 2, Finding Billy Battles Trilogy (Kindle Edition)
By KC Books and Music ~ Kevin Cooper, Book Reviewer:

I normally find the second book within a trilogy or longer series somewhat lacking in comparison to first. In fact, I’ve come to expect it as a given rule and start reading every sequel with that same expectation. Then, every once in a while as I’m sitting there feeling quite smug in my conviction, A Ronald E. Yates comes along with a sequel every bit as good as his previous five-star work. It’s mind-blowing.

Finding Billy Battles is a historical fiction series like no other and reads like a memoir making it all the more believable. The story quickly draws you in and doesn’t let go. There is so much going on, you’ll be riveted for hours.

This particular work picks right up from where the first ended and it’s like you never put it down. Billy Battle’s journey from the Wild-west to the Orient becomes fraught with adventure and new dangers as he finds himself caught up in the middle of the Spanish-American war which is closely followed by the war of the Philippines. Not to mention his relationship with a German baroness whose character you cannot help but fall in love with. Another character I absolutely loved was Potts.

Then there’s Yate’s affinity for languages and colloquialism. I do not know all the languages, but judging from the ones I am fluent and know a little of, I found the phrasing and expressions to be spot-on; their use added much credibility to the story.

“Billy ain’t in Kansas anymore!” Highly Suggest This One!

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5.0 out of 5 stars Thought-provoking and intelligently portrayed., August 18, 2016 ~ by  L. Jenkins ~ Amazon Top Reviewer:

I really enjoyed reading the first book, Finding Billy Battles, so I was excited for the opportunity to read this second installment of the series. The Improbable Journeys of Billy Battles did not disappoint. The historical events were woven into the narrative in a masterful manner. William and his close friends were usually participants in the events of the day, sometimes unwillingly. I was fascinated by the events in the Philippines as my knowledge before reading this book was non-existent.

I loved the way in which the story is told, it made me feel like I was experiencing those tribulations right along with the characters. Thought-provoking and intelligently portrayed, this exciting, action-packed book can be read as a stand-alone, but will be more fully enjoyed by reading the previous book before jumping into this one. I am really looking forward to the next book in this trilogy. For those who enjoy good historical fiction this book is highly recommended.

I was provided a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.  :-)

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5.0 out of 5 starsA Truly Amazing Tale!

Finding Billy Battles: An Account of Peril, Transgression and Redemption (Finding Billy Battles Trilogy Book 1) (Kindle Edition)  Amazon Reader:

It’s been decades since I read anything resembling a wild-west story/legend. This historical fiction is that, and so much more. I take my hat off to Yates for providing me with one of the most entertaining stories I have ever read.

Yate’s is a truly gifted story-teller. He can take a well-known historical figures like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday and develop their characters in such a way that you feel like you didn’t know them as well as you thought, and you are left with the utmost admiration for them even though this story is not actually about them.

The story is really about Billy Battles, who is but a scrivener/journalist and his unfortunate clash with the Bledsoe family/gang that sends his life into a spiraling adventure throughout the old west fraught with life threatening situations and confrontations with some of the most notorious criminals of the time.

It is a truly amazing tale. I was captivated for hours. The penmanship is excellent. I did find some repetition in places, but this can be so easily amended, I found no issues with awarding the full five stars.

I am looking forward to reading Yate’s second & third books in this series!

 

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Lastly:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Adventure Continues, June 29, 2016 ~  by Martin H.

The Improbable Journeys of Billy Battles: Book 2, Finding Billy Battles Trilogy (Kindle Edition)

In this the second book of the Finding Billy Battles trilogy the Kansas gunslinger sails to the Orient in an attempt to evade pursuing Pinkerton detectives. Grieving over the death of his wife, Billy hopes the mysterious East will provide the spiritual balm he desperately seeks. But it is trouble not tranquility that Billy finds aboard the S S China. A beautiful German baroness in distress enlists a reluctant Billy to join her on an adventure that transports the couple across three continents. Ron Yates’s knack for replicating authentic 19th century settings populated by intriguing characters both educates and entertains. This is a fun book, enjoy! Martin Henley.

 

**Ok, now you have read the fantastic book reviews, so go grab both books one and two and be ready for action and adventure in book three! ***



The Trilogy Book One and Book Two ~ by Ronald E. Yates, Author ~ On Amazon
One:  Finding Billy Battles: An Account of Peril, Transgression, and Redemption
Two:  The Improbable Journeys of Billy Battles: Book 2, Finding Billy Battles Trilogy

 
 **  Presented By ~ Lyon Book and Social Media Promotions **

Awesome Author Interview With Writer Ellie Pulikonda and Her New Book: ‘Finding Faith’

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Author News, Featured Guest, Featured Guest Writer , , ,

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ABOUT THE NOVEL

 


Three women, each caught in circumstances which limit her freedom to be, to act, to live as she chooses. Each reaches out tentatively, only to fall back in anger and fear. Despair is their constant companion.

Helping each other may be the only hope for each of them but their tentative bond is threatened by their fear. Trust is an elusive and alien concept to each. Moments, when they are in accord are rare but they do happen, perhaps giving them a glimmer of the hope and the will they need, to keep trying.

Join Mae, Mira, and Carla as they navigate the tricky path of Finding Faith …

 

An Author Guest Interview by Awesomegang of Ellie Pulikonda.

 

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Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written?

I am a retired librarian indulging my long-held dream of writing novels. I live in beautiful Southern Oregon with my little dog in the country. I have two published books,” Split Second” is a psychological thriller mystery novel and ‘Finding Faith.” Both of these books center around relationships and family, redefining or broadening the definition of ‘family’ with some twists and excitement.

I am currently at work on my third novel, “Willa.”  It will follow the same general theme but is a total departure from the first two works; “Finding Faith”  and  “Split Second.”


What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?

My most recently published book is “Finding Faith.” It was inspired by my own life experiences and those of people close to me. It looks at the question of appropriate care of the elderly from a fictional setting. I’m certain that my inspirations for this work were my own advancing age, the experiences I have had with the elderly, both in my family and my work, and our social norms.


Do you have any unusual writing habits?

Probably not so unusual, but I tend to write copiously when an inspiration hits me and then will let a day or two go by without getting anything written. During this time I’m mulling over the theme, characters, direction and possible outcomes of the tale, and allowing them to prepare me for next time I commit to writing it down.


What authors or books have influenced you?

Almost all of them. I have been a copious reader since I first discovered that those strange squiggly marks in a book represented words. The authors who inspire me have changed over the years but I still hold onto some of the earliest memories and use them when appropriate. Barbara Kingsolver is one of my favorites, both for her story-telling skill and her engagement with causes.


What are you working on now?

My next novel, working title ‘Willa’, will again be about family and about strong women. The question I ask myself about strong women is “How do we moderate between our own ego and need to be self-assertive and the needs of those who enter our circle of life?” Are our own egos paramount or is nurturing others more important? Do we have a responsibility to sacrifice our egos to those entrusted into our care? What happens when our needs and the needs of others clash?

 

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What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?

My best method is my publicist/book promoter Catherine Lyon of Lyon Book Promotions here, having waited so long to begin this new career, I find myself outdated in terms of electronic communication and she has ably taken on that role for me. She does a great job promoting my books throughout social media, book and readers websites, and even made and released Press Releases for me for the new novel. She can do it all and runs her business as a one-woman show. Don’t know how she does it! Lol. But she is good. Additionally, I blog, belong to a local authors group, attend book fairs throughout the state, and do book signings at a local independent bookstore. All of these work together.

Do you have any advice for new authors?

Don’t give up!


What is the best advice you have ever heard?

Keep refining your craft. The first book may be okay, the second should be better, the third should be even better, and the next will be exactly what you dreamed it would be!

What are you reading now?

I always have several books going at the same time. I’m reading a biography of Ruth Bader Ginsberg, an inspirational book on tweaking life in small increments, a novel about the inquisition in Spain, children’s books to add to my Little Free Library, and a book on the craft of writing.


What’s next for you as a writer?

Not sure. Just starting out on my current title and will be focusing on that for a rather long time. I would love to write a children’s book and may try that next.


If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
I would have to have my whole library with me; could never limit it to 3 or 4 books.

 


More About The Writer & Author:

Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Ellie attended several colleges after high school to obtain her BA in Education, MA in Library Science, and her MS in Adult Education. She is or has been a daughter, wife, mother, widow, partner, single mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

She has worked various jobs and in different fields such as a law office, a librarian, newspaper article writing, a welfare office, and finally as the director of a public library in Tipton, IN.

“I write for the pure joy of writing” . . .

“At first, it was diaries, journals, and musings; then I graduated to short newspaper articles, some unpublished but staged mystery/comedy plays, scripts for amateur musical productions and now books. My hope is that my readers will enjoy my books and also be prodded to think about the actions and motives of my characters, to question their choices and why they made them, and to see the characters with greater insight.”

Visit her website for her writer’s installment each week of, “Words on Words” ~ ~

 

 

Author Websites and Profiles

Ellie Pulikonda Website
Ellie Pulikonda Amazon Profile

Ellie Pulikonda’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile