Envy Red

Now that I have your attention, let's discuss. At first glimpse one may think the title implies that race matters but it was really just the author in me who created a ploy to grab your attention. Besides, a good story, or in this case a good blog, should capture you from the start right? I am so laughing out loud right now. For the remainder of this blog, let's clarify that the true topic is matters of race and not that race matters.  On a serious note, a post by a fellow author by the name of Oana definitely caught my attention this morning with a subject she raised for discussion. Paraphrased, the questions were: Are you only comfortable with people of your own race/background/hood? Do you allow those friends who are not of the same descent to get as close to you as those who share certain racial/cultural commonalities? These questions made me think over my own stuff. They forced me to acknowledge what I would call barriers in both my professional and personal life. Although I absolutely enjoy being around a diverse group of people, I have admittedly been limited in networking with those outside of my race and culture. When asked why, I would say it was lack of effort and not lack of interest. Many may not see this as a barrier but I definitely feel strongly that when you limit yourself in any arena, that you are selling yourself short. In my opinion, it is...

With so many individuals realizing their goal to be a published author through the help of self publishing tools, print on demand services, and small publishers alike, it is a wonder that the basics are still falling by the wayside. We have entered the land of publishing mayhem. Like any business, the road to success in becoming an author is not realized without hard work and dedication. So why then are so many still jumping in blind to the basics? Writing should be the easy part but what comes after will take many hours of training and a good dose of that thing we call reality check. You wrote an awesome book. That may be a true statement but does it mean that everyone will immediately flock to your product? Chances are no. You must build your brand and following from the ground up. There are many books in the sea. How will you separate your work from the pack? Publishing involves more than just packaging a book for sale.   When it comes to seeking a publisher, education goes a long way in ensuring one does not enter into a deal that will do no more than front them the cash for a book cover, typesetting, and editing. One of the key terms that many new authors fail to consider is DISTRIBUTION. It is a self publishers nightmare as limited resources and connections could very well present a huge challenge for authors with so much potential, self included. When entering...

People are often surprised at my candidness when it comes to speaking up about my battle with cancer. In August of 2010 I was diagnosed with a rare form. You know that thyroid gland that exists in your neck? It does wonders for your energy levels and helps regulate your metabolism. Well I had malignant thyroid tissue in one of my ovaries which is almost unheard of. So much so that my case was referred to Yale University (PA) and involved Kaiser Permanente, Washington Hospital Center, and Holy Cross Hospital (DC Area). It required that I also have my thyroid removed in March of 2011 just after my birthday. I then had radiation treatment shortly thereafter in May of 2011.  The fact of the matter is, cancer is plaguing the nation, It is becoming as common as the cold it seems. I am not ashamed to tell people about my experience because in my mind it may help save someone's life. As I take this journey, it is my hope that someone will hear my story and it will drive them to keeping their regular doctor visits. Furthermore if one feels in their heart that something is not right, it is important to pursue it and get as many opinions as possible until the source of the ailment is found. I know this from experience as mines went under the radar until after the decision was to made to have the first surgery. It was not until the biopsy was performed...

Aspiring authors always ask "should I use a pen name?" Well I hate to report but there is no magic answer to this age old question. The key is to be memorable. Therefore, you must do what works for you. In my opinion if your name is common, chances are you just may be lost in the sauce of the million other "Danielle's" of the world. Unless of course you are Danielle Steele. Her name is a household commodity and is synonymous with the term "bestseller". However, don't get me wrong. It does not just take a strong name to sell a book. For these purposes we are assuming the book is great! Whether or not to use a pen name was the dilemma I faced when embarking on my literary journey. I knew my name was common so I wanted something that I could brand and set myself apart from others in my field.  I wanted it to be short enough to remember yet easily associated with something memorable. In addition, the key for me was to also make it catchy with a bit of an edge to say the least. To me, pen names should be a conversation piece. So far "Envy Red" has done just that. People often ask "what does it mean or how did you come up with that name?" The conversation takes off from there. Even if I don't sell a book right then, I have successfully implanted myself in their psyche which could lead...

Kindle, Nook, and iPad's have changed the way books are brought to fans. In fact, the list of eReaders goes on and on as the eBook craze has swept the nation! With the touch of a button and often times a large fraction of the cost, one can download books from their favorite authors without stepping foot in a store. With small independent stores and large retailers like Borders closing it's doors, one is left to wonder what the future holds for the industry? As a new author, I have participated in book fairs and festivals with some showing a large turnout while authors struggle to bring the author out of the red associated with participation. Although I have not been privy to the changes in the industry on a grand scale, one thing I know for sure is that change is occurring at a rapid pace. It is up to us to sink or swim as authors and bring you, the fans, what you want. So the question is do you still enjoy the feel of a good paperback or hardback book in your hand? Do you enjoy the atmosphere of being surrounded by your favorite authors in one place ready to meet and greet you with an autographed copy of their work? Are book fairs here to stay or will they evaporate like other traditional literary platforms?...