tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90543743952146051652024-03-13T14:38:23.832-07:00Writing My First Book Didn't Teach Me Everything - Tips, Pitfalls and other Monumental DiscoveriesThese are things I learned while writing my first novel. I hope you find them helpful, interesting, funny and I hope you know you are not alone!Kate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-18946529442616933202013-12-11T13:56:00.001-08:002013-12-11T13:56:20.567-08:00You Never Know Who's LIstening ... shhh.<br />
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Words on writing – for what it’s worth.</div>
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I thought, after Heat Wave, that I had this job down. I write – for hours – everyday, I have the plot line, I have a firm grasp of my characters and I guess it was that arrogance that was my first mistake. I was super excited to write from Adam’s point of view – I didn’t take into account how difficult that would be … for the three previous books (Living Lies, Second Chance and Heat Wave) I’ve done my best to keep out of everyone else’s head. I didn’t want to mar Melanie’s view point by crawling into someone else’s thoughts – giving her insight on things that she shouldn’t have known.</div>
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Today, I know better. And I’m not taking anything for granted.</div>
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For Adam I darkened the things in my life. I chose male oriented shows, movies, books – read articles, magazines and listened to men speaking in restaurants. My mom didn’t understand when I was forced to shush her during one of these most interesting episodes. “Why are you listening to them? What are they talking about?” She asked, too loudly and I told her I didn’t know because she kept asking me questions. My poor mom. In my defense, I apologized later and told her why I listen … because I’m interested. In everything.</div>
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To all of you writers out there … whatever your hang-ups are, whatever you struggle with … know this (taken in an sympathetic way) we are all still learning, no matter how many The Ends we’ve reached … or (not so pleasant) once you’ve mastered a hurdle there will always be another one waiting to trip you up.</div>
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But remember you’re having fun. I can’t wait to see what Book 5 and the sequel to Moon Over Monsters are going to teach me … right now the first drafts are moving along nicely. But like all of my first drafts … there will be cutting, realigning, rewording … editing, rereading, changing, fixing, adjusting, mending and then I’ll be ready for the second run through.</div>
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Got to start somewhere.</div>
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Love All,</div>
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Kate</div>
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<br />
I know this looks different - they (the computer people that live in the walls and order me around via this device) changed my blog page. I'm still going to link here for as long as I can ... until they discover what I am doing. But I also included a link to the new blog place ...<br />
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http://powwowpublishing.com/KM/2013/12/11/you-never-know-whos-listening/Kate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-85118909233496890102013-11-26T15:11:00.002-08:002013-11-26T15:11:41.013-08:00The Halloween Candy Caper<a href="http://powwowpublishing.com/KM/blog/blog-list/">http://powwowpublishing.com/KM/blog/blog-list/</a><br />
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So I changed my blog site - this a good idea - who knows. But since I'm a technically challenged I rely on those around me and they said - good idea.<br />
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Let me know what you think and please stay tuned!<br />
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Love All,<br />
KateKate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-76506733933257252812013-11-18T11:17:00.000-08:002013-11-18T11:18:09.467-08:00Take Back the Power From Mean And Crush Its Little SoulI was telling Brent that I feel bad - (I was pulling quotes from book reviews) - and I know I shouldn't because people can be mean. They probably don't even know they're mean. Maybe people are mean to them (because they're gossipy and unhappy) ... anyway - he said that it's "natural to feel bad".<br />
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That got me thinking - why is natural such a great thing? You read it on packages and hear about the benefits of 'going' natural. But who wants that? Natural childbirth hurts. And I used to have to eat watermelon outside or by the sink - because of all those seeds - now I just enjoy. And nature is really beautiful to look at and I think we should have more areas that are left alone. That being said - do I want to commune with creatures living in said environment? No. Because I have respect for wildlife. And great fear of bodily harm.<br />
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I'm thinking I prefer artificial. Artificial lighting makes me look better, I have an artificial lake in my backyard. Have you ever rubbed an actual strawberry on your lips or hair? Doesn't hydrate as well as lip balm or shampoo and then there are those pesky seeds.<br />
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It is something to think about on a non-election year.<br />
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I spent yesterday at a book event for Arizona authors. I sold one book, one download, made two Facebook friends, got invited to sign at a table for the UA Festival of Books, talked a lot and met some really nice local authors - it was a good day.<br />
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Okay - Brent just read an exceptionally nice review for all three books. I wish the good ones could worm their way in like the bad ones do.<br />
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Boo! to the power of mean!<br />
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Happy Monday!<br />
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Love All,<br />
KateKate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-60004741110578111072013-08-19T22:35:00.002-07:002013-08-19T22:35:05.356-07:00There's A Hero In The HouseWhere have I been? The answer is everywhere but that's got to wait.<br />
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Today I'm going for cliche. I have a new hero and her name is Wendy's Liberty Bell - we call her Libby and sometimes she responds, but only if she wants to. She's a 10 year-old Weimaraner and has got a huge bump on her nose. The vet says it's cancer but this dog is so strong and so amazing that I'm refusing that diagnoses. He only looked at an X-ray, there were no tests, no biopsies, NADA. Anyway, I couldn't be anymore proud of her. It's like if that rhino-bump were gone she'd be better than normal, she jogs on her walks, follows me around like her own personal vending machine and plays like a puppy. We are defying the odds and I believe she's sporting her Halloween costume with style!<br />
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Summer is over, kids are back in school and I'm fixing into a routine. I have to say that I wonder about other writers and their comfort patterns. Me, I can't write in solitude. It makes me lonely. Give me a fast food restaurant with headphones and a television and I'm set for a strong chapter. I cannot concentrate alone at my desk/table with music in the background. The other night I had the computer on the kitchen counter as I cooked spaghetti because I had a conversation going inside my head that I couldn't ignore and ... real people were hungry.<br />
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How do you write? How does your story come to you? Is it so much fun that you forget about the painful linking of words?<br />
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My publisher spoke to the editor and I have not had a more stressful moment ... since the last time that happened. I'm normal. On a regular day, with regular things ... I'm a together sort of person but when Jill is part of the conversation I become a crazed, scared idiot. She's absolutely the greatest and I want her to like the story and I'm so super sorry for my many errors - sometimes I wonder what she must think of me ... I can't even blame a public school education, not totally. And I went to college, I've strongly suggested to my mom that she write to the university and demand a partial reimbursement for my lack of grammar skills. But to be fair, it's her fault I can't speak Spanish and there's no money-back-guarantee with a parent. I guess it's time to be grateful for that (I've got two).<br />
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Hey, this was fun. I'll have to do it more than once every 3 months.<br />
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Thanks for reading.<br />
Love All,<br />
Kate<br />
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<br />Kate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-48254562740953355382013-05-05T15:05:00.002-07:002013-05-05T15:05:35.167-07:00Uncomfortable BlockageI'm not going to call it 'writer's block' because that sounds uncomfortable. And it isn't like I ran out of ideas or didn't have a game plan ... more like I was frozen by some futuristic device that allowed my brain to move while immobilizing my fingers. But this description makes it sound painless - which, it wasn't!<br />
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Each book has had its own set of issues:<br />
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<i>Living Lies</i> was difficult because it was the first and I was new (which I plan to alleviate - more later).<br />
<i>Second Chance</i> was like 'nobody cares anyway' :(<br />
<i>Heat Wave</i> was 'Jeez Louise, I give up.'<br />
<i>Moon Over Monsters</i> - not so much any of that but the sales have caused the :(<br />
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And by now I have to ask myself ... why are you surprised that Chase is peppered with obstacles? Because! I don't expect sneak attacks from my-own-self! From my-own-characters! How is that even possible?<br />
Well, they are spies and assassins! DUH! Surround yourself with sneaky characters and you get what you get!<br />
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But we're simpatico (homage to Cinco de Mayo) again and it is wonderful to be in love and be loved in return! Back on track and racing toward the finish line - that may have to be moved. Which causes another set of mental ulcers but ... can't nor shouldn't be ignored.<br />
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Here is where I'm going to (gladly) change the subject -<br />
Last week I was privileged to be part of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Middle school career day. It was a great reminder of how lucky I am to be able to write, to create, to spend my days with Melanie and meet readers. So much fun. Of all the jobs, though some were really cool and for a split second I considered working with the animals at the zoo, mine is the best!<br />
My very empathetic daughters would remind me that it's the best for me but other people like what they do better. Is it bad to have kids that are more adult than their parent? I guess I'll judge by the amount they need to spend on therapy.<br />
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Hope you like what you do better.<br />
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Love All,<br />
Kate<br />
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<br />Kate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-83815914268507844492013-04-21T18:36:00.002-07:002013-04-21T18:36:26.320-07:00104 Days Of Summer VacationAs an English assignment this week my girls were given the task to write an original 3-6 page Science Fiction story. Using three of the seven characteristics of Sci Fi that I didn't know were requirements.<br />
I would've loved that assignment much more than diagramming sentences.<br />
When I was a kid I was hooked on the Nine Princes In Amber series by Roger Zelazny. I loved Corwin. I was ten or eleven and when I'd completed the last sentence of the last page of the final book - I missed him. So, Friday night, decades later, I retrieved my copy of the book (I am a terrible nostalgist) from the shelf with my other favorites and started to read it to the girls in the car as we drove to their sleepover. Though, I can't remember but the basic plot I still love Corwin. And I love Zelazny's descriptions.<br />
Books hold an important part of our childhood memories - at least they do for me and even when I'm missing my room with the canopy bed, the 9"black and white television and having nightly dinner with my parents and brothers I can still pick up a book and be transported back. I can be that kid again.<br />
Right now War Games is on the television and earlier Madonna was on the car radio - they weren't the best of times but they were my times.<br />
But ... back to reality, the 21st century ... It's the end of April and I'm excited about summer vacation. In a few short weeks (or 104 days according to Phineas and Ferb) summer vacation will only be a memory and this prep time a distant recollection.<br />
Live for the moment. That's a great motto but right now my moment consists of trouble with Chase. Not so much as writer's block more akin to AHHHGG!<br />
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Back to Corwin where it's safe.<br />
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Love All,<br />
Kate<br />
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<br />Kate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-41897423824569350402013-03-28T17:05:00.000-07:002013-03-28T17:05:05.504-07:00Melanie vs. Zombies, Serial Killers and Chemistry TeachersI am a big fan of the library. I like to reserve books, movies, television shows – it's like getting a gift when the male voice kindly lets me know that I have a item waiting. <div>
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However, a couple of weeks ago - Homeland, The Walking Dead, season 2 and Downton Abbey season 2 - all came in about the same time. And I had been waiting nearly 6 months for Homeland and three for the other two - no way was I going to miss out on this trifecta of television! </div>
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We finished the very last episode last night. </div>
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If you find Melanie killing servant zombies in a giant mansion while taking medication and sleeping with a suspect then you'll understand. My brain is swimming with these great characters and the vast difference in each of the tales. </div>
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Another confession is that I'm in love with Dexter (just today reserved season 7). Not just Dexter but the entire cast - Deb is my favorite. </div>
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I've been through the four seasons of Breaking Bad - didn't get into Mad Men but I am waiting on Game of Thrones and Justified.</div>
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I don't know what happened to me - I was never this kind of crazy over shows. Are they getting better or is it me? </div>
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Now everyone has been telling me about Dr. Who? but my library doesn't carry the new one - I don't even know what it is - but it's got to be good! And I already can't wait. </div>
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I do have to say that watching The Walking Dead before bed - isn't one of my best ideas. Oh, well, have to wait for next season. Kind of like having to wait for <i><b>Chase Book 4 of the Melanie Ward Novels.</b></i> - thought I should throw that in - do a little subliminal marketing. </div>
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Well, if you can think of any awesome programming I've missed - let me know! </div>
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My advice is to stay away from angry personal maids, Maggie Smith, serial killers, zombies, cops who are in love with your spouse, chemistry teachers, war heroes and Miami.</div>
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Got to go - the Arizona Wildcats are playing!</div>
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Love All,</div>
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Kate</div>
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Kate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-42985825037991194752013-02-11T16:10:00.003-08:002013-02-11T16:10:49.537-08:00Book 4 - Melanie Ward NovelsFinished the first draft of Chase!<br />
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Love All,<br />
Kate Mathis<br />
Kate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-35876042938510419812013-01-28T17:37:00.002-08:002013-01-28T17:37:43.347-08:00Another Attempt At FreeA year has passed since I first discovered Kindle Prime on Amazon. It changed my life. It changed the way I saw my writing and it changed my enthusiasm.<br />
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A year ago I wrote because I wanted to - I had little faith that my books would get into the hands of strangers and Second Chance took so long to complete because I figured no one cared anyway. I wrote for myself. I wrote what I wanted to read. I wrote because I enjoy it. I don't think that I'm very skilled but what I lack in natural ability I make up in determination. I'm willing to learn, to fix my mistakes and I'm willing to make more. I figure before I'm done I will have fallen into every pit unimaginable. But I will also pull myself out again.<br />
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Now there are people waiting for book 4!? What!? I can't over express my amazement. So the numbers are in the handful but it still surprises and leaves me speechless when I'm reminded that someone - I don't even know - is enjoying the books.<br />
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(My husband tells me not to focus on my mistakes. Actually, I just read this to him and that was his comment. To which my reply was "I don't." Duh.) He was also the one to tell me not to use a pick-up line on a stranger - clearly I don't listen to him and usually I find myself grimacing as I think I should tell him he was right. But then I save him from developing an abundance of ego and pretend like I have no clue what he's talking about. Marriage. Oh, side note, I have realized that I talk to strangers too much and to my horror I think I've hit on more men than I can count. Blast my naiveté.<br />
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Anyway, back on topic. Moon Over Monsters has a revised cover! We're going to be at a book signing on Feb. 16th at the Safari Club Wildlife Museum! They have the bones of a centaur and a few other mythical creatures and I can't wait. Just this week I received an email on Moon Over Monsters. I haven't pushed that one because it demands a sequel and that is still in the works - super cool.<br />
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Long story short. Living Lies is free on Kindle for the next three days! Tell your friends, tell your neighbors and lets all get out and download!<br />
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Thanks a million everyone!<br />
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Love All (avoiding the ones we accidentally excite),<br />
Kate Mathis<br />
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<br />Kate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-73348099511854915372013-01-06T13:52:00.005-08:002013-01-06T13:52:39.988-08:00Readers Are The Real MysteryA New Year. New Goals.<br />
I hate putting so much pressure on myself in January - or anytime of the year, really - but I do like making lists of things to do. Mostly because I like crossing things off. Sometimes I do something and then remember it wasn't on my list, so I add it – just so I can cross it off.<br />
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This year is pretty much the same as last ... get a couple of books out, shove the pressure aside and simply enjoy the process. It's hard to appreciate every moment in life and when the yucky stuff creeps in, it's nice to remember that most of the crap just doesn't matter.<br />
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Life is a game, a competition and the purpose is to learn and have fun as the time on this planet passes. This has never been more evident to me than book sales. Raise the price, lower the price ... sell some, give some away. When or why readers buy a book is a mystery. None of it makes sense and I have almost no control.<br />
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I marvel when a book hits it big and goes crazy. My thoughts at that time are ... "Now why didn't I think of that? An X-rated Twilight ... duh!" with a hint of, "At least it's possible and maybe next time..."<br />
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I'm not an obvious gambler. I don't play the slots or hit the Indian casinos on weekends but I do play the odds with my career. So introspective - it's giving me a stomachache. But seriously What Is The Next Big Thing? Forget the tired old stuff of the last few years. Look ahead on the horizon ... what's there? You never know – it could be you lisping with Barbara Walters next December.<br />
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Squinting out over the sunrise,<br />
Kate MathisKate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-6636980674755699452012-12-27T10:12:00.002-08:002012-12-27T10:12:12.236-08:00The Christmas LetterI love reading Christmas Epistles. One of my favorite things of the holidays is opening a Christmas card and finding a folded wreath-designed paper with pictures and accomplishments. I admit that I stop whatever I'm doing to cozy up on the couch and enjoy a read. I even do this when I'm at someone elses home and they have them out – I don't care if I know the people or not.<br />
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I'm not sure what the captivation is but it's there and it's strong. This year was a skimpy year for Christmas letters so I savored the few I could get my hands on - I might have to drag out the box I keep in my attic to get my fix by reading previous years letters ... hmm, did I just go too far?<br />
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Here's To A Wonderful New Year -- I've got big plans for 2013! (So suck-it Mayans)<br />
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Love Those Who Are The Warmest - it's cold outside,<br />
Kate MathisKate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-58481986762530091372012-12-13T09:16:00.002-08:002012-12-13T09:16:59.999-08:00Think Twice Before You Call A Stranger An...Last night I went to an event to award a local businessman for his contributions to the community. That's the boring part but in the mix I spotted a man. He was in a light brown leather jacket, had rectangular silver framed glasses and ... he reminded me of Adam (for those of you who have read my books you know that Adam is an assassin). I turned to my husband and he said, "that guy looks like an assassin!" At that point I was hooked - I had to find out who he was. There are many problems with this ... the first being his name tag was tiny and second he kept turning each time I tried to run into him.<br />
What was I going to do? Resolved, I decided I would simply introduce myself and tell him he reminded me of a character in my books. To which my husband said, "That sounds like a pick-up line. Hey you look like a guy in my book."(You have to do the cheesy, cheap porn star sound effects.)<br />
Whatever. At the end of the event I was going to forget the whole thing ... but then I'd be a chicken and I hate missing opportunities.<br />
So, I walked up to him and said "Hi, I'm Kate Mathis. I write and you remind me of one of my characters." Before I'd even finished my sentence I knew I was in trouble - the way his face changed – It WAS a pick-up line! I babbled on a few more seconds and he asked, (seriously) "Pray tell who is this person?"<br />
I laughed, nervously - pushed his shoulder (which I immediately realized was another inappropriate gesture) and told him - an assassin.<br />
I was in deep doo-doo! I gave a hasty goodbye and jetted like a rocket out of the auditorium. I figured Brent would find me, or he wouldn't, but I was not going back into that room.<br />
I woke up a few times during the night to have a laugh. At least I proved that I am not a chicken!<br />
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Poor guy. I did get his name and after a bit of contortion he'll appear in a book - somewhere.<br />
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Anyway, I have learned a lesson and have passed my education on to you. Can't promise I'll remember that lesson next time I run into a dumb idea but...<br />
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Love All,<br />
KateKate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-86542991976527932542012-12-04T10:19:00.001-08:002012-12-04T10:19:07.730-08:00No VacancyEvery year my mom says that she's going to make Christmas shopping easier for herself - she's going to give money and each year she spends hours, walks miles and stresses over everyone's gift. I'm on my fourth Melanie Ward novel and after each one I think "okay, now I've got this!" But here we are three months into CHASE and I'm stressing. It isn't writers block or finger cramps - but it's the hours and miles of plot that I go through to get the story down, to make it make sense. I have a jumbled personality and unfortunately it comes out on the page and that's why I have to edit and reedit.<br />
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Yesterday I started reading <i>Living Lies –</i> You wouldn't think this was a difficult task but my heart races, my fingers shake and I get nervous reading my own work. It's been years since I've opened up the book - I changed, rewrote and tore those first chapters nearly to death (After each rejection notice). Bad memories of trying to please everyone. Reading <i>Living Lies</i> again (with fresh eyes) I see my issues, which I will kindly address as my 'style'. And though I'm tempted to go back and update (fix) some of my 'style' dilemmas, I question if that's a good idea. Maybe, when I'm finished with CHASE ... we'll see.<br />
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The goal is to get better with each book. To write clearer, to tell an interesting story with real people and entertain for the 300+ pages. I take it seriously and hope readers think about Melanie, Adam, Trish after The End of each book – and if the next one is available <i>have</i> to pick it up and read more. I just wish I could do all this faster because the stories are piling up inside my head. The other day I tried to learn something and discovered I have no more room - I need the equivalent to an external hard drive for my brain.<br />
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Therefore the 'No Vacancy' sign will sway behind my eyeballs until I can come up with a solution. Anyone got one?<br />
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Love All,<br />
KateKate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-7686618251803568612012-10-23T11:28:00.002-07:002012-10-23T11:28:04.029-07:00The DiscoveryI'd forgotten how much fun it was to blaze through blank pages. To uncover the next situation, the next emotion as it's happening. I feel really lucky to be able to tell the story. I've had 'real' jobs (lots of them) and I sort of miss the companionship of other humans, the routine, the daily question of lunch - the paycheck. But there is benefit to this life, too. Though, to be truthful some consider me jobless because I don't have an office or a desk - I do have a desk, I just prefer to write at the kitchen counter or at a fast food restaurant.<br />
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My point is that there is give and take in each of our choices - consequences don't always have to be bad. But we do have to live with them. The consequence for me is that I'm alone most of the day (the conversations inside my head only count as partial interaction) and there is a part of me that wants to set up cubicles in my living room, pop popcorn in the microwave and hire a couple of people just to get on my nerves. Even in that scenario I'm missing the predictable paycheck. Well, my dream to have it all is still a work in progress.<br />
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I know that these post are supposed to be very narrowed down - with an exact purpose, but I'm so not that organized that I guess it is what it is. How do I know that my posts are off topic? Because I read it on the Internet! Or, no, I saw it on one of those puffy morning shows that are supposed to be about hard news ... and cooking or terrible fashion ... I get confused.<br />
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Hope all is well.<br />
Love All,<br />
Kate<br />
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<br />Kate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-39228659595065554712012-10-11T10:28:00.002-07:002012-10-11T10:30:02.694-07:00New Ranking System on Amazon - 202!The other day I got an email from Amazon - they are now ranking authors and I was ranked 202 in Romantic Suspense! Woo-hoo, right? 202. That's so funny. What does it even mean? No clue but I liked it!<br />
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I live with a dysfunctional dog family. Seriously, I love them but right now I've got three snoring on my couch and one up on my bed with his head on the pillow. They bark at each other, gobble down anything that resembles an edible treat and they poop 17 piles a day. I've read where people say that their dog has changed their life - that is true. I'm a servant, a slave and if I stick my cold hands on their warm underbellies ... they bite. That is not unconditional love! To further illustrate, if I ever left the front door open, they'd be gone in a flash. Where are they going to find a better place? Doesn't exist - except at my mom's house. Maybe it's because they don't have thumbs and can't unlock the front door and they think I'm holding them captive. But truly it is for their own good.<br />
They don't know that I'm the big 202 (that is ranking and NOT age or weight).<br />
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Enough of the ridiculous.<br />
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If this isn't an example of procrastination - don't know what is.<br />
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Remember to be kind.<br />
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Love All,<br />
Kate<br />
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<br />Kate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-46375673795182573062012-09-26T10:56:00.001-07:002012-09-26T11:03:30.308-07:00Awkward and Clumsy - Social Media So, I'm not the best social media worker. I'm quiet. And though I know there are some that would disagree but I could consider myself shy. That is funny. But I'm less comfortable in a crowd and that's how I feel on Facebook. Like I'm thrown into a party where everyone knows each other and I'm standing on the sidelines watching with a drink in my hand. It's fun and all but I'm awkward. That being confessed - I just signed up with Pintrest (ikatemathis) - this looks like fun. I get to find images that remind me of Melanie, Adam or Trish and pin them on this site. Maybe it will give others a sense of who I think these characters are - is this a good thing? Books are so individual, so personal because it involves the readers unique imagination. My Adam is not the same for everyone. That's why when Twilight was first cast I wondered how they were going to find Edward. Because other than his copper hair the only description was that he was beautiful. What do you think?<br />
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Well, along with my screenwriting class, book 4 and the Moon Over Monsters series, I now want to embark in a social media education course. I've taken some of these webinars and I think I need to become more specific with my goal. Strategize, build a following, piggybacking, use others fame to comment on their blog, retweet, associate with them, do guest blogs - see I've got the terms. But I want to interact with readers - have discussions, talk to real people instead of typing on a blank screen. I love to procrastinate with answering emails or finding images online, doesn't everyone?<br />
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Heat Wave - out for almost a week and is doing well! What a relief because you just never know. Thanks to all. And I've got the basic outline for book 4 complete! I hate to say it's going better than Heat Wave because I'm highly superstitious and believe that the Gods of Karma don't need any incentive to zap me but ...<br />
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Love All,<br />
Kate<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kate.mathis.3">https://www.facebook.com/kate.mathis.3</a>Kate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-28724349266756220102012-09-08T09:34:00.000-07:002012-09-08T09:34:03.411-07:00Paying For ReviewsSo, I had the 4th hour of the Today Show yesterday and one of their topics actually stopped me - with laundry in my arms - to listen. They named an author who had set up fake accounts on Amazon and was giving himself raving 5 star reviews about his 'modern day masterpiece'. I didn't have time to evaluate what I thought about that when they went on to say that he'd also left horrible 1 star reviews for his competitors. I didn't need any time to know my feelings. What an @$$hole!<br />
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How rotten is that?<br />
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I did already know that this was going on a smaller scale ... because I have a couple of 1 stars reviews that make no sense. I'm not saying that someone can't like my books but their comments were inaccurate regarding my story.<br />
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Researching it yesterday I found that there were companies set up - so you could buy good and bad reviews. Apparently, after successful freebie promotions there are nasty people who either pay companies or use fake email accounts to leave bad reviews. Amazon customers have no idea this is going on and the star ratings matter. What a lousy thing to do to someone - all I can say is that in return they're getting fake 1 star reviews. The author noted on the Today Show - was rj ellory and in their piece they said he admitted to it - said it was a wide-spread occurrence among authors.<br />
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I'm here to tell you that I would never do that! EVER. It's mean and hurtful to read a nasty review - forget about hurting sales. And it's not like I pose a threat to anyone. Seriously if Fifty Shades Of Grey can make over a million a week - there's enough readers out there for everyone!!<br />
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Well, if these authors don't have enough confidence in their own abilities they should choose another profession.<br />
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All you Amazon customers - read the reviews with skepticism! But in return the percentage of readers that leave a review is very small - so, my request to you is if you like a book at least 3 star worthy - leave a comment. If you don't like the book, don't finish it and say nothing.<br />
It's a shame people can be such dicks!<br />
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Mean People Suck<br />
Kate<br />
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Kate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-45927549610011818492012-08-20T10:31:00.000-07:002012-08-20T10:31:21.040-07:00The Art of ProcrastinationIt's been a long time since I've been here - summer vacation is over and the kids are at school. I admit, it makes me very sad. We had a great summer and they're off learning with friends and having a good time and me ... well, I'm sitting here rearranging furniture and pretty much doing everything except what I'm supposed to do. I've got the final edit going on Book 3 and I think that I have absolutely perfected the art of procrastination! Seriously, I am GOOD!<br />
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I'm also here to announce that Book 3 has an e-book release date! September 21st! The last day of summer - is this a technical date? yes and no. It's my birthday and I don't care what any scientist, religious or calendarist say ... 9/21 is always the last day of summer! And Pluto will always be a planet! I gladly challenge anyone to any of these arguments!<br />
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I've got a title and a cover but I think I want to announce those together and probably on the website in the next couple of days!<br />
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Hope all is well in your world and that you're remembering to Love All.<br />
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KateKate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-58911869034152264682012-07-04T18:46:00.000-07:002012-07-04T18:46:05.538-07:00Happy Independence DayThe rain finally broke over the desert and if I can pause for a moment to say how amazing wet creosote smells. The sky is gorgeous, cloudy and dark, and on the wind travels the scent of life and hope. Monsoon season is my favorite time of year. The drilling heat is worth the price and today we were granted the reward!<br />
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Independence is a wonderful thing. Not to have to ask someone for something; to use the car, for a couple of bucks for dinner or to go someplace. It's freedom and it's the best. Let's say I go to my mom's and she's grumpy, starts bugging me ... guess what I can do. Drive. Drive. Drive. She's great and don't get me wrong - She's the best, kind, generous, and would do anything for me. I love her. Love Her. But there are times when I am also in love with my keys! In Love With Car Keys. That's freedom on a personal note. That we live in a time where homeless carry cell phones and I don't have to eat pig intestines, that is even more to be grateful for - I am grateful. Everyday.<br />
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What are you grateful for?<br />
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Happy 4th of July!<br />
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Love All,<br />
KateKate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-49571801702508356992012-06-26T11:23:00.000-07:002012-06-26T11:23:47.410-07:00Automated E-mail Alert! And Here I Am.It's bad when you get an automated email saying it's time to blog from some unknown, snooty server. What do they think, a computer knows my inefficiency better than I do? No. I realize I've been lax - but I've been writing! Ha! My kids are out of school and I've been going to the gym. Hey, I'm busy.<br />
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I've been thinking about books and how/why they skyrocket to fame. I need a niche market. Some untapped area that people want to read about. I missed the erotica by a year or so, missed the girl with an arrow by a few years, lovable vampires by a few more than that and wizards by over a decade. What will be next? Is there a trend?<br />
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Here's the thing - the devil himself has lit a fire to every molecule of air outside my door. Hell has sucked the desert into its womb. Translation: It's hot. Can't expect too much when you've got a head full of boiling brains.<br />
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But it's summer and I love summer. The cicadas have invaded every branch of every tree within earshot and are buzzing me crazy. But the monsoons are on their way and so many delicious fruits are in season and God created popcorn and movies.<br />
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Let me know if you come up with a trend - or maybe I'll just watch you promote it on the news. Good Luck.<br />
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Am I all over the place, not making sense - Hello, it's hot!<br />
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Remember even through extreme heat you have to Love All.<br />
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KateKate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-53217049324155611532012-05-17T16:59:00.000-07:002012-05-17T16:59:51.580-07:00A Young Adult Book That Really Is For Kids!Tomorrow a promotional newsletter to teachers is going out with a Moon Over Monsters review! It feels odd to have this book out on Kindle. It's the first time we've done that ... ebook out before the actual book has been printed. I feel as if I'm letting Christina down. But this is also the first time we've had such success with ebooks.<br />
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Moon Over Monsters is a story about a girl, Christina, who lives in LA. She's super smart and at 16 has just graduated from High School and is getting ready for UCLA in the fall. When her dreams start they're treats and a break from reality but when they start becoming more like visions Christina starts to worry. She witnesses a boy battling a dragon and her scream crosses the continuum as the boy turns to look at her, the dragon lunges.<br />
Christina has a destiny that is stronger than her fight. And when her family is sent to Germany to cover a dragon sighting she slips into another realm. It's like nothing she ever thought existed. Elves, witches, trolls, dwarves and fairies populate a kingdom that has been bread to hate and fear humans. With the shield that protects their secret fading it is destiny that has her way.<br />
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I've spent years researching the YA genre and I really wanted a story that I could hand to my kids and not worry. It's a summer read for kids of all ages. The book edition will be out within the month. If you have kids ... check what their reading!<br />
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Are we sick of political ads, yet? I am not going to let them ruin my summer! Because summer has started in this household. My girls are finished with their finals today and will spend the next week at school creating puppets. Puppets. Nothing like the sixth grade that I remember, in either the level of learning or the crazy last week. It's a great school and I cannot complain, nor do I want to.<br />
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Be safe.<br />
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Love All,<br />
KateKate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-22564839929837840472012-05-10T17:53:00.000-07:002012-05-10T17:53:13.948-07:00Brothers & Sisters - Is A Mother's Love Equal?Today is my mom's birthday. She's way old and I've spent 7.5 of the last 8 hours with her. Enough said.<br />
I had to get that off my chest. And am I feeling better? Not really. But I've got a passport and I'm only mildly afraid to use it!<br />
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To real issues.<br />
It's been almost two weeks since we had our FREEEE promotion and it was an overwhelming success! Now, because I am willing to play the game of life, we are lowing the price of both books to $.99 (Hey, who stole my cent button?) for three days! Starting May 11th! I know that authors can experience overwhelming sales by lowering the cost but ... I think those authors have a long line of books for readers to purchase and I have only three. We'll see and so will you! We've tried a few different advertisers and haven't seen much return on investment on those. Next week we are going to be in a newsletter for kids promoting Moon Over Monsters. It's a great summer read - a book that you can feel comfortable letting your child read.<br />
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There is so much in the news lately and I have to tell you I always watch and don't always believe - however, the English double agent has captured my attention. Don't forget to check your backyard for oil, double check the drugs you're on, a prince of weather, another billion dollars wasted - you can't make this stuff up. Except for the cheating, lying politician story - that's old news even if it comes with a new face.<br />
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Well, I've got to get to my mommy's birthday party.<br />
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Be safe.<br />
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And remember to Love All,<br />
KateKate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-82025264398940011782012-05-04T09:57:00.000-07:002012-05-04T09:57:40.454-07:00Fake Can Be A Great AlternativeI think the Tylenol, ibuprofen, the Benadryl and the caffeine from the Diet Coke are finally kicking in! And even though what I'm feeling is totally fake - it's better than how I woke up this morning. Fake isn't always better but I have to admit my fingers are flying over this keyboard, when an hour ago I was slumped in the sunshine. I wonder if a tanning bed would have served the same effect as the dose of chemicals. But maybe (here is my artificial light - lightbulb - moment) it is the fake things that are most addictive! New thoughts for my procrastinating ponder.<br />
Speaking of fake ...<br />
I'm going to have to open my mind to the possibility that some of my strong feelings about nothing could be wrong. I used to dislike seedless watermelon. How unnatural to de-seed such a beautiful fruit! What, are we smarter than God? But then (against my will) I tried the devil food – and it was not only delicious but totally convenient. Spitting isn't attractive. Now, to justify my turn of opinion ... It would be more of a sin <i>not</i> to take advantage of the tools we were given!<br />
No one gets addicted to seedless watermelon! Go Team Seedless Watermelon!<br />
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I think humans are smart enough to fix anything in the world - if only we weren't so consumed with nonsense. If we could pick up our pants, put less sugar in ice cream, mute mean gossip, end selfishness, have kids that like to clean their room and receive a dollar for every lame political television ad we are subjected to ... life would be better! Someday I might miss those seeds, nostalgia that, I'm sure, will dissipate with the coming of summer melon season.<br />
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Hey, did you see the Tucson Lifestyle Author page? So nice.<br />
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I can't write how super cool it is to open email or FB and read a note from a reader. It makes me happy on the inside and motivates my work. Thanks to everyone - it's better than fake!!<br />
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Remember to be kind.<br />
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Love All,<br />
KateKate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-52675165979395265222012-04-29T15:25:00.000-07:002012-04-29T15:25:29.798-07:00Nearly 13K Free Downloads In 48 HoursIn two days almost thirteen thousand people (world wide) downloaded <i>Living Lies</i> and I have to wonder ... What does that mean? It's crazy and scary. The thing is, is that it really is just a game of pricing, strategy and luck. <div><br />
</div><div>My next concern, because there always has to be at least one, is that people like the book. I realize it isn't possible to please everyone but I do cross my fingers and hope it's a high percentage. There's expectations with such a catchy cover and though I was in categories with mostly men authors with war covers I think Melanie can hold her own.</div><div><br />
</div><div>For the next couple of weeks I'm going to keep my eye on <i>Second Chance</i>. Not everyone emails or leaves 5 stars that they enjoyed the story but if they like <i>Living Lies</i> ... they'll want to read the sequel. (FYI *** 5 star comments are always, always appreciated as well as recommendations! - momentary pause for blatant plea for positive accolades.) </div><div><br />
</div><div>And Moon Over Monsters was released on Kindle - book form will be out in May. I actually thought it would get some notice because of <i>Living Lies</i> free days. But sadly no. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Remember to be kind.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Love All,</div><div>Kate</div><div><br />
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</div></div></div>Kate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9054374395214605165.post-32955910436364169632012-04-23T16:46:00.000-07:002012-04-23T16:46:15.177-07:00One Small Sound Can Change The Whole MeaningWe all have busy days.<br />
You know what I'm sick of? Dieting. Hearing about dieting. Counting calories. Brown rice over white rice. All of it bores me to death. What a waste of time and energy. If I'm a little fat, who cares? Be a little more active each day, say no after the twentieth french fry and enjoy over worry.<br />
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I cannot express enough how much has put me to sleep lately. I'm so tired of the same old thing. I'm tired of television, radio and I'm tired of my own thoughts. I crowd my day with useless pondering, I think it is a honed procrastination technique. It ranges from ...<br />
Have you ever wondered why self-deprecating is so similar to self-defecating? It's because when you put yourself down it is just like pooping all over yourself. Gross. I know. But it is something to think about.<br />
To ....<br />
I will never purchase a tree that doesn't work for me. I planted a couple of citrus trees over the weekend and was overjoyed with the idea that I will never want for a lemon – ever again. Marvelous. I'm thinking pecan tree next!<br />
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And either I'm suffering from heat exhaustion or struggling with thoughts that race out of my mind faster than my fingers can keep up. Why am I missing every third word I write? Is it misunderstood talent?<br />
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Three book related news events!<br />
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First I'm being interviewed for a magazine article on Monday. I get a little nervous with this kind of stuff.<br />
Second, Living Lies is going to be FREE on Kindle Thursday and Friday or Friday and Saturday!<br />
Third Moon Over Monsters will be out this on next week on Kindle!<br />
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Remember to be kind and don't self-defecate!<br />
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Love All,<br />
KateKate Mathishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01662188421471770136noreply@blogger.com0