Sometimes there is a moment when a little bird has to find out if she really can fly – and this year is that moment for me.

I’m considering a number of options on how to put some wind beneath my wings so to speak. And yes, shock horror! Some of these involve earning money from what I create. I haven’t come to any decisions on what to do, but some of options would give me a revenue stream that I could rely on and do more of what I love do, create worlds.

One of these is sponsorship for podcasting.

Another is charging for podcasting. This would not include Digital Magic, but could be a possibility for Erotica a la Carte and a future steampunk erotica novel that I have about half done.

Since the announcement JC Hutchins made about 7th Son not being picked up for the final two books by St Martins everyone in the podcast novel community, listeners and creators, has been in a bit of a tumult. I think there is a place for free, and I will always have a component of that nature my work, but increasingly people are becoming aware that if they want all their content for free they could be driving people away from the medium.

I would hate to see all the wonderful creators I have enjoyed in podcasting move onto other projects- but I understand for some people this is what they want to do for a living.

So here’s the question for you dear reader- are you prepared to pay? Would you be bothered by sponsorship in any of my podcasts? (Keeping in mind there would always be something free but not everything) What’s the solution? What’s the way forward?

I don’t know, but I’m going to ask you. Fill in this survey. I’ll leave it up for a month and then let you know the results

Can’t see the survey? Click here

Erotica a la carte has been lots of fun on Radio Dentata- and so it was lovely to be approached by Sean Owens of IRFT Celtic Radio about bringing Chasing the Bard to their station.

My celtic roots run deep with ancestors both Scottish and Irish. My two trips to Scotland were some of the most wonderful experiences- I felt a deep sense of home that left me in tears when I had to go.

Chasing the Bard fits nicely into their schedule and hopefully will bring some new listeners to the podcast.

So tune in for the Bard on 7th of March

Most of my readers will know by now that this year began very badly for Tee Morris. He is now facing raising his daughter, affecitonately known as SonicBoom by himself after the death of her mother.

Many donated to the ChipIn fund which helped with the immediate expenses surrounding Natalie’s death, and even left a portion over to begin a trust fund. However, as those of you with kids know, raising them is not cheap – let alone sending them to college!

So I thought ‘hey maybe I’ll auction off a few things I have here’ (Mainly the Weather Child original manuscript) – and it kinda snowballed from there. The Boom Effect auction is now hitting 70 auction lots, and I know there are more to come.

People have done some amazing craft projects, donated rare and beautiful things, and been very creative with what services they are offering.

I just want to highlight a couple of things for writers and podcasters since I presume that is who reads this blog most.

Writers

• Our agent Laurie MacLean is offering two wonderful options- a three chapters package and a full reading of your manuscript and critique. This is your chance to take full advantage of Laurie’s skills and experience.
• Our editor from DragonMoon Press Gabrielle Harbowy is offering a professional edit of a short story up to 7,000 words. An opportunity to polish up that story for submitting.
• Alex White is offering to make a logo for your website. He made me the one for this very site you are on- and I’m blown away by his skills.

Podcasters

• Kimi Alexandre is offering to produce your very own promo. Nothing will help your marketing efforts more than a sparkling promo!
• James Durham will make your own theme song. Not all of us have musical skills, but having your own theme made for you would be just amazing.

And those are just a tiny sample of the amazing things people are donating to help Sonic Boom into the future. Check out the lots here.

The auction will be hosted by Podcasting’s Rich Sigfrit at 10am EST 27th February 2010 live on ustream.

If you’re a podcaster- the promo for the event is here.

You can also find us on Facebook as an event, follow us on twitter or subscribe to the RSS feed as more auctions are still being added.

This is a great way for us to come together as a community. We’re going to give a little girl options, and one day she’s going to look back and be amazed at what the podcasting/social media community did.

And how much fun we had doing it.

A recent Twitter conversation started by Scott Roche about public critique, specifically for podcast novels got me thinking about critiques, flames and feedback.

I replied to Scott that as an author you have to expect to get all three. So here’s my take on dealing with them as an author.

The middle one Flames are characterised by negativity upon negativity- nothing positive, no encouragement, no suggestions for improvement and are usually full of bitterness and axe-grinding. You can spot them a mile away.

Yes, these attacks might annoy and/or upset me for half an hour. I imagine pouring a rain of fire back, but I never do. The most I have ever done is send back a polite ‘thank you, I’m sorry you don’t like what I do, but maybe in the future you’ll try again’. Flamers just want attention. They want you to pour gasoline on- so in return I recommend giving them a bucket of water and then putting them out of your mind.

Critiques are another matter. People have taken time to write them, and I will always give them more consideration. They usually contain ‘I really liked your book but…’

When you get one of these you should pay more attention, but you will want to run it through a process.

As a reference librarian you learn to do one important thing- judge the source. For scientific accuracy an article on an internet forum is always considered less reliable than an article in a peer reviewed journal.

So I do the same with critique and feedback.

Top of my list is of course my agent Laurie Maclean and my editor at Ace. Their opinion is right up there. They’re professionals, and they have a real interest in my books selling well. They are invested in my success.

Second are my beta readers. These are people I have picked because I value their opinion and know they will give me honesty. They have skills and knowledge that are specifically targeted at what I am doing.

And finally comes public feedback. Criticism here is a free for all- and that’s perfectly fine. Luckily we live in places where an opinion is your right, and hopefully (unless you are in some totalitarian state) you can express it on the internet.

So here’s how I deal with criticism. I let the initial pain and outrage pass. I don’t fire off an email in anger. I don’t go on twitter, or to my blog and lambast the writer. I let it sit. (In this way replying to critique is like editing, best done cold)

I let it rest until I can logically examine what they are saying. I may go to my beta readers/listeners and say ‘What do you think? Does this guy have a point?’ I am lucky enough to have several very honest people in my circle (Dan Sawyer I am looking at you). If they confirm what this person has said then I add more weight to the scale.

And then after that process I will reply, in a calm, polite, measured way. Sometimes I change things, sometimes I will not. We are not artists doing things by committee after all, and we have to, at the end of the day, believe in our work.

So that’s my process for dealing with criticism, which may make it sound easy but it’s not. Believe me, this is coming from a person that cried for half an hour when she got her first professional critique. However I got over it, and the book was better for it.

What I will not let criticism do is stop me from doing what I love- which is writing and podcasting. We may get our ego bruised, but we still go on.

The wonderful DDog has just added  Chasing the Bard to TV Tropes website and it was a very interesting thing for me as the writer to read.

A trope is a common pattern or theme and they have been around since humanity first decided that telling stories was a great idea. Some of the ones DDog picked up on are powerful tropes that get repeated again and again in literature and film. Such as;

The Chosen One; a person with a destiny to forfill- in CTB’s case William Shakespeare. (actually I think Will has two destinies- saving the world and writing great Art)

Ultimate Evil; The big Bad Creature who is not usually seen until the end. In CTB that was the Unmaker- my worst nightmare- the flip side of creativity.

Lady of War; The beautiful, powerful woman who will kick your ass. In CTB this is Sive- naturally, but these types abound in literature, and probably stem from the original war goddess- the Morrigan, Kali etc. Women give life, but they can also take it.

As a writer does that mean you should avoid writing tropes? I would challenge you to write a story without one of them cropping up. They are common themes for a reason- they speak to the human condition and have for centuries. It comes down to the old adage, there’s no such thing as a new story. However if you give a hundred people a trope, say ‘farm boy finds he is the Chosen One’ you will get a hundred different stories. We all see things differently, we’ve all had different lives so our stories will always be unique to us.

So have fun with tropes- twist them, reconfigure them- but please don’t lose sleep over them.

And thanks to DDog for taking the time to unravel all the tropes in Chasing the Bard- some of them I didn’t even realize were there!

Last week I had the honour of being one of the panel on Litopia After Dark. Hanging with the wonderful folks and talking writing was a lot of fun. I was a little nervous, but the panel made me feel at home very quickly.

Peter and Litopia do a great deal for the writing community- and their After Dark show is one I look forward to every week. I was so glad to be asked.  The best thing was I got the panel to give me their evil nemesis laugh- all except Peter. So there is something to go back for.

So have a listen to Word Wars for Fun and Profit

Podioracket has been doing great work to promote and help podiobook authors. How Heather, Rhonda and the gang do it all I don’t know.

So when I was invited to be part of their first Anthology series I was very flattered. This series aims to expose listeners to a range of authors work, but rather than making people listen to a whole novel, these are short stories that will hopefully wet the appetite- sort of an amuse bouche for podcast novelists.

The series starts dropping on February 12th and will go for 16 weeks. My story is one from Erotica a la Carte, so it is on the saucy side, but it is also one of my favourite short stories, Measureless to Man.

There will also be a supporting series of Blogtalk radio inteviews. Further information is here.

This month has sped by, but I wanted to touch base with you all.

Firstly I want to say thank you, thank you so much to all who have contributed to the ChipIn fund for Tee and Sonic Boom. In just over two weeks we have raised $20,000. That’s an amazing feat, and has renewed my belief in social media.

I will put up with the endless social media ‘gurus’ and the big companies trying to shoulder in without taking time to communicate. I will put up with blocking them, because the way people have responded has shown what social media is about. It might be new, but all it is really is another way for people to connect with people. To have that feeling of belonging.

But money is tight all over, and so I am organising The Boom Effect- check the site for more details. But there are some wonderful auction lots there, and all money raised will be going to a Trust Fund for Sonic Boom, Tee’s daughter.

Spectre is nearly done- as in 5,000 words done. It will need lots of editing, but I am happy with the bare bones of the story that I have carved out.

As for Geist, the final edits are in the hand of my editor at Ace, and I do have a publication date. November. This year!

Finally this site is undergoing some changes which you will see. I have moved themes and am in the process of tweaking it to my satisfaction.

So yeah, January. I will be glad to see the back of it, but looking forward to what other, better months have to offer.

This year has not started how it was meant to. My dear friend, collaborator and colleague has found himself with the prospect of raising his child without her mother.

I know Tee wanted to keep this a private matter, but word hit twitter within hours and now the genie cannot get back in the bottle.

So here it is. The sharp end of life. The bit no one expects or wants.

I know that the wheels grind slowly on this and Tee and his young child are looking at significant bills after the death of his wife Natalie. So I have started this ChipIn account. Money will be going to Tee Morris’ paypal to first of all pay off these bills which loom and then into an account for his little girl.

I have gone on and on about community again and again. Tee has given selflessly to my podcasts and many, many others. He is the originator of podcast audio fiction. The first. A founder of Podiobooks.com and a writer of many books on social media.

Tee doesn’t know I am doing this, but cast on distant shores this is the least I can do. I hope you can spare a few dollars for someone who has bought joy to so many. Every little bit helps.

2009 – what a mixed bag of nuts you were.

A bunch of personal stuff was dealt with and sorted- which needed to happen. However there were a number of writing and podcasting successes that made up for all that.

The highlight has to be the two-book deal with Ace. As I have mentioned in various interviews on pod, I never really imagined it would happen. I knew my lovely agent Laurie McLean of Larsen Pomada was confident, but I am a ‘believe it when I see it’ type of person. So when Laurie pulled together a deal for Geist, and got a second book in there I was both ecstatic and pleasantly surprised.

With the economy being bad all around, the publishing industry is not keen on multi book deals for unproved authors. I am very proud of Geist, but I know that I will have to work my ass off to get it launched into the world at the end of this year… Tally ho!

The second book, which I started and nearly have finished, Spectre proved to be more difficult beast to deal with. It is my first real sequel and I discovered how much more difficult that is. However I know with a decent amount of editing the continuing adventures of Sorcha, Raed and Merrick will come out just fine.

2009 also saw the completion of my first real collaboration (one other failed completely and nearly put me off them altogether a few years back). I had a blast writing with Tee and it gave me renewed confidence that I could play well with others. Laurie has the 1st in the series of Books and Braun in her hands, and I really have all my digits crossed that it will sell. I love the world, and I love the characters.

Writing wise the other highlight was attending World Fantasy Con in San Jose. I got a glimpse into the world of publishing. It wasn’t so much about writing, but about the business. Having this taster has prepared me a little for the year to come.

Podcasting wise, 2009 was a good one.

I’ve worked in a variety of voice projects for other people. This has been a wonderful thing, which I get quite a buzz out of: feels like I am representing New Zealand out there. To be involved in so many podcasts is a real blessing and joy.

UPDATE; Oh yes, and as Tee Morris pointed out, Chasing the Bard: the podiobook won a Sir Julius Vogel Award. (In my defence I am writing this away from my desk, where the shiny, pretty award sits and looks back at me)

Erotica a la carte was a great deal of fun, and for a project I started as an experiment, continues on into 2010. I got some guest ‘chefs’ into the kitchen and it proved to be even more fun when shared. It was also short-listed for the best anthology at the Parsecs. Quite an honour for a podcast that had been on for only six months at that point!

Weather Child, the book that New York publishing said no American would be interested in reading, turned out quite the success in the podosphere. I got a real buzz out of how much people enjoyed it. I hope to get some movement in NYC on Weather Child once I have given it a good through editing.

Digital Magic was launched along with Dan Sawyer and Chris Lester’s projects; Free Will and Metamor City Season 2. I couldn’t ask for two more talented people to enjoy cross-promotion with. Mixing the voices into this project is a joy. And a two week schedule is one I feel I can keep up with as I go forward into 2010.

First things to do will be finishing the last edits on Geist, tidying and polishing Spectre and handing over the reins of Erotica a la Carte to another round of guest chefs.

Later on I am looking forward to the release of Geist in the American Fall, Balticon in May and WorldCon in Melbourne in September. It feels like a full dance card, but this is the year to make strides, put up or shut up… all of that.

I want to thank my listeners and readers, both those that have provided feedback and those that have stayed quietly appreciative. You’ve all made a difference in this one author’s life and I hope to bring you more creations n 2010 that might make a difference in your own lives.

This coming year will be filled with plenty of challenges and choices. My hopes are that it is a satisfying, happy and productive. I wish the same for you and yours.

Litopia, which is a podcast and a community I have really come to appreciate, is running a week highlighting podcasters- and one of them was me.

I had a delightful chat with Peter Cox- and tried my best to sound as grown up as possible.

I hope to be involved with them again, and I think the interview came out quite well.

This is my last post before Christmas- which for me will involve BBQs, sun and homemade trifle. I hope where ever you are, and however you celebrate the holiday season, you are with people you love.

I will be doing a yearly wrap-up in the great tradition of every person and blog online. 2010 is going to be an exciting year, and I hope you will join me on the ride.

My lovely, enthusiastic and successful (hello… Ace deal!) agent Laurie McLean of Larsen Pomada – who now also represents Tee Morris for fiction- spoke to Kimi over at Tale Chasing. She may or may not mention me

The podcasting sphere is full of lots of opinion by writers, but getting the thoughts from an agent is pretty unusual. So head on over and have a listen.

I’ve mentioned before how lonely it can be writing (except when you have a energetic collaborator like Tee Morris but that’s another story for another post) so it is always nice when people send in voicemail, emails- or go that extra mile and review my work.

Recently two lovely ones have been posted over at Random Pimpage and View from Valhalla- and they are for the most personal of my stories (so far at least) Weather Child.

This is a story set in an alternate New Zealand and is, according to some reviews on itunes, seriously creepy. It is a rough first draft that I hope to get a home for after Geist has made its debut.

Here’s some of the things said that really made me smile

“Seriously just like I expected out of Pip great characterization you really were able to feel like Lily, Faith, and Jack were alive you get drawn into them and when the bad bad things happen to them (and yes some serious evil is laid down) you genuinely get pissed for them. It’s a great story great characterization and a hell of a ride. Let’s not forget the smooth sultry tones of the Lovely Miss Ballentine doing the narration” – Random Pimpage

“Weather Child is a beautiful and deeply personal story. Ms. Ballantine has drawn from her own family history to flesh out some of the characters, and it is an investment that is palpable. I love a well done historical fantasy, and Weather Child is very well done indeed. This is a story that exudes pain and sorrow, but never loses faith in the possibility of redemption.”- View from Valhalla

So yes – what you think makes a difference to me. It encourages me to write and podcast because it says that I am reaching other people. And that is what creativity is all about for me.

As I have blogged about- this year I have gone part-time at the library, and that means picking up the loss in income from that in other areas.

Mostly that has been by writing, but I am not adverse to working other angles.

So just lately have been supplementing that income with voicework. This really excites me, not just because of the money, but also because it makes use of training I did from when I was eight years old. My sweet elderly Speech and Drama teacher would be so pleased- a pity she isn’t alive to see it.

So here are the two announcements

1) You can find me as the intro and outro voice of the Model Rail Cast. I’ve always loved trains and the hosts of this show are lovely and knowledgeable.

2) The ink has just dried on the contract with Grail Quest Books. I will be the voice of the narrator for Shadow of the Stars;Advent and for Shadow of the Stars;The Prince of the Universe. They even know I have an accent! More details on this to come.

So if you want a kiwi accent (or heck I can do a passable British) then yes- this voice is for hire.

The Gift of Lit is a collective effort by many of the fine authors from Podiobooks. Together, we would like to share with you our diverse works and invite you to take a look at the nice selection of books we have spent hours, days, months, or years writing.

The Gift of Lit: Holiday 2009 is now here. If you are looking for a great gift this holiday season, rather it be for a family member, friend…or for yourself, take a look at the list below and give one, some, or all of these books your consideration. There are books to suit your needs this holiday season. Here, you will find fantasy, sci-fi, crime drama, speculative fiction, techno thriller, and much more. Help support these authors and spread the joys of literature. Give spark to imagination.

Below, take a look at all of the different titles offered and follow the links to purchase your own copy for yourself or to give that special someone this holiday. Yet, no matter the time of year, The Gift of Lit will be sure to please all readers.

HORROR

NIGHT’S KNIGHTS by Emerian Rich

Buy it here at >> Amazon << (starts as low as $13.00)

Vampires on a quest for knowledge attempt to create the perfect offspring, but from the shadows an even more demonic evil threatens their immortality. Markham is a simple Irish immigrant striving for the American dream in 1860 when coach robbers cause his untimely death. Severina is an exotic beauty from the jungles of Brazil whose family is brutally murdered by the same man she later calls lover. Julien is a knight who serves as guardian angel to his family but has no clue about his predestined fate. Will a powerful mortal named Jespa be the one to save them all?

FANTASY

BRAVE MEN RUN by Matthew Wayne Selznick

Buy it here at >> Amazon << (starts as low as $8.98 new)

April 18, 1985-Into a world already wound tight with the desperate
tensions of the Cold War comes Dr. William Donner with a startling
declaration: superhumans exist, they demand autonomy, and he has the
reality-bending power to enforce their status. The traditional balance
of power is thrown askew by the addition of not one super-powered
human, but six thousand. Before the Donner Declaration, high school
sophomore Nate Charters was just an outsider and self-proclaimed
freak. His unusual appearance, hair-trigger reflexes, and overactive
metabolism should have made him something special, but his differences
and low self-esteem have long since marked him as a target for the
jocks and popular kids. Now, just as his unique nature brings him the
attention of a self-assured older girl, Nate must find his place in
the world. Why is he the way he is? What really happened to his long
dead father? Why is his biggest rival suddenly interested in a private
meeting? Is he part of a remarkable, powerful new minority… or just
a misfit among misfits? Nate must discover the answers to these
questions quickly, because those in power know more about him than he
could ever imagine. And they’re closing in…

LOST GODS by Drew Beatty

Buy it here at >> Lulu << (starts at $15.50 new)

Kweku Anansi is just another member of the African diaspora, trying to
make a place for himself in his adopted home of Toronto, Canada. He
dreams of better days, of a time when he could stop running small time
cons just to make the rent. He dreams of the life he used to live,
centuries ago when he was revered as a god.

A chance encounter with a fellow con man with a dark and secretive
past of his own, plunges them both into the dark world of the lost
gods, gods who would do anything to be worshipped again. Including
destroying the world, if necessary.

How far will Anansi go to reclaim his godhood? What will he give up to
have true power again?

THE FOX by Arlene Radasky

Buy it here at >> Amazon << (starts as low as $20.99 new)

The Fox by Arlene Radasky is a historical romance and fantasy novel that looks at true courage and truly selfless acts. In this epic fiction that crosses centuries, Druid healers at the beginning of recorded time will be rescued from obscurity by an archeologist of the twenty-first century. Jahna’s clan lay in the path of destruction exacted by the Romans. Her fate is sealed unless a bargain is made with the Gods, which without a doubt means a human sacrifice. Two thousand years later, Aine MacRae is on their trail. A struggling archaeologist, she is on the verge of uncovering the village where they once lived. Encouraged by a ghostly visit, she will do whatever it takes to unearth time’s mystery. Greed almost triumphs leaving the truth and ancient stories buried forever, but an undying love is rekindled.

CHASING THE BARD by Philippa Ballantine

Buy it here at >> Amazon << (starts as low as $12.69 new)

Born into the human world with a gift; a gift that brings him to the attention of powers both dark and light from the World of the Fey, it is his burden to defend all the world. Sive, the goddess of battle, hopes that he may be able to change the fate of her people.The Fey are dying, killed by something beyond the boundaries of worlds, and Sive will do anything to save them. So she enlists the help of her trickster cousin Puck to guard the child, and watch him grow into his gift. But a dark power imprisoned by human and Fey, plots to destroy both worlds, and unmake all that they have created. Can one boy stop the destruction, even if he is William Shakespeare?

THE DAWNING OF POWER by Brian Rathbone

Buy it here at >> Amazon << (starts as low as $17.98)

The Dawning of Power is the debut trilogy in Brian Rathbone’s fantasy series: The World of Godsland. Echoes of the ancients power are distant memories, tattered and faded by the passage of eons, but that is about to change. A new dawn has arrived. Latent abilities, harbored in mankind s deepest fibers, wait to be unleashed. Ancient evils awaken, and old fears ignite the fires of war. In times such as these, ordinary people have the power to save the world . . . or destroy it.

THE WHITE SHADOW SAGA: THE STOLEN MOON OF LONDOR by A.P. Stephens

Buy it here at >> Amazon << (starts as low as $8.60)

The era of peace among the elves, men, and dwarves comes to an end when one of Londor’s twin moons disappears from the heavens. Without the moon’s balancing effect, evil forces grow bold, and warfare, sickness, and chaos threaten life itself.

Hearing the prayers of desperation that ride on the violent winds, the ancient wizard Randor Miithra, servant to the elf-gods, takes it upon himself to mend the world he has sworn to protect. The task will not be an easy one, though, for the wizard, too, has begun to feel the effects of the world’s imbalance. As Randor struggles to maintain some semblance of his powers, he meets a secretive band of colorful characters from all walks of life, drawn together by a common goal: to find the stolen moon, whatever the cost. It does not take Randor and his motley company long to see that someone or something does not want the moon returned to the heavens.

The road is perilous…the stakes have never been greater…will they find victory…or will they only find their deaths?

SCIENCE FICTION

THE VATICAN ASSASSIN TRILOGY by Mike Luoma

Buy it here at >> Lulu << (starts as low as $35.99)

This three in one omnibus edition collects all three novels in the “Vatican Assassin” Trilogy under one cover. “Vatican Assassin”, “Vatican Ambassador” and “Vatican Abdicator” are joined in this volume by an extensive appendix of previously unreleased background material. There are some early concept sketches by Mike Luoma, as well as “The History of The Future”: a timeline developed to extrapolate from today into the future setting for the story; “The Original Story Outline”; “The Story of The Project”; “The Alien Timeline” and more.

THE PIRATES OF SUFIRO by David Lee Summers

Buy it here at >> Amazon << (starts as low as $14.95)

The Pirates of Sufiro is the story of a planet and its people — of Ellison Firebrandt the pirate captain living in exile; of Espedie Raton, the con-man looking to make a fresh start for himself and his wife on a new world; of Peter Stone, the ruthless bank executive who discovers a fortune and will do anything to keep it; and of the lawman, Edmund Ray Swan who travels to Sufiro seeking the quiet life but finds a dark secret. It is the story of privateers, farmers, miners, entrepreneurs, and soldiers — all caught up in dramatic events and violent conflicts that will shape the destiny of our galaxy.

CRIME DRAMA

JACK WAKES UP by Seth Harwood

Buy it here at >> Amazon << (starts as low as $7.68)

In JACK WAKES UP, we are introduced to Jack Palms, a movie star turned drug addict, turned has-been who has been living off of the residual checks from Shake ‘Em Down, his one–and-only action movie. The money is drying up though, and this new clean, uneventful life is starting to become too much for Jack to bear. So when an old friend comes calling and asks Jack to use his former celebrity to show some out-of-town high rollers around San Francisco’s club scene, he’s happy to oblige. What Jack doesn’t know, however, is these “guests” are a pack of former KGB agents turned coke dealers out to make a big deal with Jack as their tour guide. Soon people are turning up dead, and Jack’s got too many gunmen after him to count—including a South American drug cartel, a mountain-sized Samoan enforcer, and a mobbed-up strip club owner with an army of thugs. That’s not to mention a gorgeous new girlfriend who may be planning on shooting him in the back and the homicide cop who’s just given Jack twenty-four hours to bring down the Bay Area’s biggest drug dealer.

But the thing that scares Jack the most? He’s starting to have fun.

FICTION

CITY OF MASKS by Mike Reeves-McMillan

Buy it here at >> Lulu << (starts as low as $9.97)

In the city-state of Bonvidaeo, by custom and law everyone must wear a mask and act in character with it, or face civil, social and religious penalties. Gregorius Bass is sent to Bonvidaeo as the Envoy of Calaria (primarily to get him out from underfoot). Masked as the Innocent Man, and in the company of his radical young Bonvidaoan servant, Bass stumbles into mystery, intrigue, heresy and murder.

TECHNO THRILLER

7TH SON: DESCENT by J.C. Hutchins

Buy it here at >> Amazon << (starts as low as $9.21)

As America reels from the bizarre presidential assassination committed by a child, seven men are abducted from their normal lives and delivered to a secret government facility. Each man has his own career, his own specialty. All are identical in appearance. The seven strangers were not born, but grown — unwitting human clones — as part of a project called 7th Son.

The government now wants something from these “John Michael Smiths.” They share the flesh as well as the implanted memories of the psychopath responsible for the president’s murder. The killer has bigger plans, and only these seven have the unique qualifications to track and stop him. But when their progenitor makes the battle personal, it becomes clear John Alpha may know the seven better than they know themselves…

SPECULATIVE FICTION

DREAMING OF DELIVERANCE by R.E. Chambliss

Buy it here at >> Amazon << (starts as low as $19.99)

Five years ago when Lindsay Paulson, a naive college student and talented distance runner, was 18, she was convicted of drug smuggling. Now, halfway through a 10-year prison sentence, she begins having what seem to be dreams, in which she leaves her cell in the night and visits another reality called Trae. Dreaming of Deliverance tells of Lindsay’s experiences both in Trae, where she finds herself among people enslaved by terrifying creatures, and in prison where she tries to make sense of what’s happening in her sleep: Is she actually escaping from prison somehow or is she losing her mind?

FANTASY FICTION HISTORICAL

THE MARK OF A DRUID by Rhonda R. Carpenter

Buy it here at >> Amazon << (starts as low as $16.55 new)

Have you ever had a dream so real that when you awoke, it didn’t leave the recesses of your mind for days? Eve McCormick just did, and this experience will change her life and the lives of those around her permanently. A twenty-six year old hypnotherapist who oversees a research project based on discovering the answer to an age-old question, “Is reincarnation fact or fiction?” must learn to trust a Welsh stranger. An ancient Celtic prophecy and long sought-after revenge entangles the past with the present in the struggle for existence that threatens to destroy her project. A druidess and a shape-shifter must join as one to save the Druid way of life, while a Queen conspires to kill Erin’s only High King. Will the oaths and agendas of the past reach across the centuries to strengthen or destroy?

Coming Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Three Podcast Authors, Three Podcast Novels, Three Contests!

What to look for: Blog posts containing printable PDF bookmarks at Digital Magic, Metamor City, and Literary Abominations.

What you can win: A free book, maybe two or three! (Prize details for each contest will be available at each author’s website).

Your Mission:

• Download and print the bookmarks
• Cut along the dotted lines
• Take to your local libraries and bookstores
• Leave a set near the checkout (1 pt for a stack) or put a stack inside of similar books (2 pts ea – Philippa, Chris, and Dan will each provide a list of authors to target)
• Take photos of each instance of bookmark distribution
• Send photo(s) to the author
• Each point will count as one entry of your name in the hat – so repeat as often as you wish to enter before December 20th.

Winners will be drawn December 21st.

Anyone who enters all three contests will have their names automatically entered into a second drawing – this time for a basket of tasty treats from San Francisco and New Zealand!

I’ve teased people long and hard about this project, and now I have a little taste for you.

Recorded before a live audience at World Fantasy Convention, award-winning podcaster and author Tee Morris and I (with the blessings of our agent) our work-in-progress now working its way through submissions: Books & Braun, our Steampunk take on The Avengers. 

This is its premiere- apart from a few little snippets on Twitter. Our plan is to eventually podcast it in this fashion: our narration, a few production elements, a musical score, and artwork featured by Carrie Seidman. We hope you enjoy this listen at what we have cooking in the creative kitchen.

BLOGGERS & PODCASTERS: We are releasing this reading under a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 United States License. Both Tee and I encourage you to syndicate this episode and point your subscribers to this endeavor of ours. We also would love to hear your feedback on this preview both here and at Tee’s website. Thank you for giving us a bit of space on your mp3 player of choice, and we will keep you posted on what happens with our daring duo from the clandestine organization that is The Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences.

Just had to share this news… the BlogTalk Radio edition of Podioracket.com made it to the top of their Books Category. Now this was the show that Dan Sawyer, Chris Lester and I took over, since the lovely hosts were unable through sickness to attend. I worked the switchboard (which was very cool) and we had callers and everything.

Now Blogtalk is a big site, so it is quite a big deal to get the top of any of those categories. We had a blast- so here is a chance to have a listen to it.

The Triple Threat on Podioracket

After the whirlwind of Double Trouble in 2008, I decided to get together with fellow podcasters Dan Sawyer and Chris Lester and launch our follow up podcast novel on the world- but taking it one bigger. So was born the Triple Threat.

Check out Chris Lester’s Metamor City and Dan Sawyer’s Free Will.

So we’ve been hitting the podosphere.

Check out some of the recent interviews I’ve been on.

Touching the Monolith

The Creative Penn

If you are going to be at World Fantasy Con on 31st of October, please come along and hear the debut reading of Books and Braun; Phoenix Rising. It will be the first chapter which is full of explosions, gun battles and maybe an airship or two. It is 10am Saturday and I would love to see you all there!

In the next week I will be flying to the States. I do this every year at least once, because of one person- someone that I now consider family.

My friend Mary Ann. She and her family have hosted me every year since 2006- and every year I feel safe, happy and part of their lives. For this wonderful relationship that has been going on since 1999- gosh ten years- I have something to thank.  The internet.

Now the internet is blamed for a lot of things-porn, breaking up families, addiction with gaming… but there is also a lot of good out there too.  Before I got into the world of podcasting there was Mary Ann.

She’s my elder sister, and something about her makes me believe in reincarnation. We talk about being sister’s in the Highlands of Scotland- and I call myself her Little Sister Over the Ocean.  Though we only met in 2006, we had many, many emails written between each other.

Her husband David and her son Justin welcomed me–but not just me. My Mum and Dad actually got to meet them all before me. Mary Ann took my Mum around Washington.

Mary Ann and her family have taken me to Boston. I’ve spent time with her sister’s-now my sister’s in the Berkshires.

And I have never had a sister. I always wanted one as a kid- I just took a long time to find her.

That’s the love and hospitality I feel when I am with her. And that is a precious gift that I keep coming back for. So when people say bad things about the online world I just smile. They don’t know how many wonderful things it has bought me.

The great thing about the internets is knowing so many talented folks. It challenges me, makes me work harder to be a creative individual.

So here are three examples of cool, interesting, talented folks that are rolling out new projects.

Gail Carriger’s Soulless is a book that we need to buy. Seriously. Everyone. It’s the kind of smart, fun book that takes language twists it about and gives you a spank with it. Seriously, listen to the first chapter put together by the just as talented JD Sawyer.

Download

Zodi and her co-consipirator Tim have began a project called 31 days of Ghosts for October. Since writing Geist and working on the sequel Spectre, I have a real fascination with ghost stories- scrub that- I have always had an interest in ghost stories. So I am looking forward to keeping up with all these great stories.

31 Days of Ghosts

And finally Tee Morris has put up the 1st 15 minutes of his Speak Geek to Me talk, that he did at Te Papa. I did the camera work, and you can even faintly hear me chuckle. (Ok, anyone that has heard my laugh, knows faint isn’t exactly the description)

Tee’s a great speaker so pop on over and check it out

Now, I better go write something…these guys are making me look bad :p

This is part of the NZ Speculative Fiction Blogging Week- the other entries are well worth checking out

Let’s face it not all that long ago, in fact in living memory (mine specifically) , the number of kiwi spec fic writers was tiny. I remember being a kid and excited to find out that Hugh Cook was a New Zealander- just like me- but he was the only one I knew of.

Today, it is a different story- the likes of Lynn McConchie, and Russell Kirkpatrick are being joined by a emerging host of new talents. Even in recent history, as witnessed by the need for the Sir Julius Vogel to expand its categories, more and more writers are admitting that dirty little secret–they like to write genre fiction (SHOCK HORROR!). We’re getting our names out there- we’re getting contracted to major publishing houses like Penguin and HarperCollins- in short we are making waves like never before in New Zealand literary history.

So why is this?

The Internet

Yes, I blame the internet! That wonderful collection of steampowered tubes (they are steampowered right?) has made it easier than ever to be a genre writer in this distant and beautiful island. As an emerging author in my teens I could tell you about the buckets of frustration poured over trying to figure out those damn international postage coupons; the ones you had to be precise about if you ever wanted an answer (let along your manuscript) returned. The huge amount of money spent on both them and the heavy tome itself could well buy me a new laptop (but I also want it steampowered, ok?)

Now with a click of the button (alright quite a few repeated clicks) I have an agent in San Francisco and a publisher in New York. I can email them, skype with them- heck even see their faces if I want to. Sure I may still have to travel to do all the fun stuff like writers conventions, signings and book tours (Oh please oh please Ace, a book tour! but if I wanted to be that traditional closeted writer, I could do that- as long as I had an internet connetion.

Peter Jackson

Yes… Peter Jackson has a part in this I think. Before his Lord of the Rings films if you said to most people, ‘I’m from New Zealand’ you’d get a puzzled look, or at most ‘Isn’t that in Europe/Australia somewhere?’

Pete (as I call him in my head) made our lovely home, not only famous- but also cool. I’ve worked that kiwi accent for my own nefarious purposes at every con and booksigning I can. It has got me dinner, drinks, and sometimes to the front of the line. I am merciless with it–I consider it one of the real advantages we have.

Kiwi fandom

Yep, kiwi fandom has contributed a lot- nurturing young talent, running writers groups and encouraging everyone with the opportunity to win one of those pointy delights known as the Sir Julius Vogel Awards. Without cheerleaders here at home- it can be a very lonely island sometimes.

If I can play the old woman card, about fifteen years ago I tried to join the local writers guild. I left with the distinct impression that because I was a genre writer not a literary writer I was not quite up to snuff. I did join this year and it appears time and tide have turned my way–I am worthy of entry.

We’re not American

I should start by saying I love Americans. They are far different to the portrayal on TV, and I have made some wonderful friendships and worked with some talented Americans. That being said, being a New Zealander makes us…. exotic. Yes, there I said it… exotic. What was once a handicap is now positively to our advantage. Amongst the sea of American writers we stand out- we’re different, interesting, and I imagine publishers think that is a great thing for marketing. (Everyone is thinking marketing these days, let’s face it)

We also bring a different sensibility to speculative fiction, with our different heritage, history and culture. I like to think we have something to say because of that. My character in Books and Braun is a New Zealand field agent- think of her as a kiwi female version of James Bond, with more of a love for explosions. Eliza is a kiwi and unashamed of it.

Come to think of it… so I am.

So enjoy this week of New Zealand speculative fiction blogging- it’s part of the new renaissance. Great things lie ahead- so pick up that pen kiwis!

I love when authors and podcasters try new things, pushing their stories, and taking the bull by the horns as far as their own carreer goes. Justin Macumber has been doing a lot for his fellow authors with the Dead Robots Society- one of my favourite podcasts for writers.

So when Justin bought out his chapbook I had to pick up a copy- and of course get it signed. You can read the pdf for free, but consider buying a copy (for only $US5 you can’t really go wrong) and supporting a writer and podcaster that has given us so much.

Coach Ian Scott is one of the best interviewers I know, and so it was a pleasure to sit down and talk with him recently. We covered the past, present and hints of my future as a writer.

The amazing thing is, Skype mostly behaved, and this interview conducted on opposite sides of the world sounds like I am calling him from next door. It could be because I have recently upgraded to the new version of Skype- but regardless have a listen and hopefully enjoy.

Listen to the interview

I have tech edited two wonderful books on Twitter by Tee Morris, but this is the first time I have helped choose stories for an anthology. I was very pleased to be invited to help chose from among the submissions for

The Kiwi Writers Challenge Collection 2009

Yes that deserves to be in big ole text. Kiwi Writers is a wonderful resource, and full of supportive people doing wonderful things. I was truly impressed with the quality of the writing. And you know… you can read it for free? Yes, free! But if you want to have a copy of this fine anthology, and who wouldn’t, then Kiwi Writers have made it nice and cheap on Lulu. Go have a look. It’s a wonderful thing, and I am very proud to have had a small part in it.

Suddenly realized that I haven’t blogged in awhile- and that isn’t because things aren’t happening. In fact it is because they are! There have been more nibbles writing wise, that are both sureal and exciting– and none I can talk about. One of them does involve my steampunk story. It has a new title, Books and Braun: Phoenix Rising. Yes, this is easily a series.

And here we come to the title of this post. San Jose is the city hosting World Fantasy- and I will be there. I will be meeting with publishers and my lovely agent Laurie. Also Edge Publishing will be there, and hopefully there will be stocks of Chasing the Bard and Digital Magic available to be bought. Also Dan Sawyer and Gail Carriger will be in attendance. (Gail is also having a party to release her fantastic new novel- Soulless) So let me know if you are going to be there.

You know, you work at something for 12 years, plugging along, enjoying what you are doing, but not expecting things to happen. I’ve just kept my head down doing what I love- and lately I’ve had to look up.

Ever since my wonderful agent sold the 2 book deal to Ace I have found new and wonderful things happening. Some possibilities I cannot tell anyone about, which just about kills me. But I can tell you about two.

Books and Braun is a steampunk tale of Wellington Books Esq. archivist for the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences, and how his life is turned upside down by the demotion of agent Eliza D Braun; a feisty Colonial none too happy about being stuck in the Archives. Book and Braun soon find themselves investigating the death of Braun’s previous partner and steamy chaos ensues.

The other that I have just committed to is working a steampunk YA novel with Dan Sawyer.

Collaboration is a tricky business, but can also be a delight. Books and Braun is perhaps 80% done, but Dan and I won’t start writing the YA project until December. But I am excited.

Social networking and the wonders of the internet have bought me so many opportunities and have connected me with so many fabulous people. So hurrah for digital awesomeness.

If that is how Twitter makes you feel, then I have the solution.

Yes, All A Twitter is now available for purchase. My collaborator on many things, Tee Morris has written this great book on the hot social media application. Tee has written many technical books, including Podcasting for Dummies and his style is laid back and very palatable to even the most technologically challenged.

For me, Twitter is about staying connected to friends, family and fans all over the world. But I have to admit, when I first signed up I didn’t ‘get it’. A book like this would have really helped me through those awkard months of learning.

I also tech edited All A Twitter- using my librarian skills to make sure Tee was giving you the good oil. It’s a book that covers everything from setting up, building a network, proper ettiquette and everything in between. It is also funny- which is a nice thing to have in a tech book.

So pick up a copy. Or do what I am- suggest your local library purchase it.

Tee Morris got to speak on Radio New Zealand- and I believe this is what is called karma. When I was in the States in 2006 I might have crowed about the coverage I got over there… and this is payback.

Tee put together this cool video of the interview. Part 2 to follow

Phil Rossi writes great stuff- creepy, sexy and gritty. I’ve been a fan of his novel Crescent for a long time, so to have him part of the DragonMoon Press family is exciting.

Anyway this video was too cute not to share. The man himself unboxing his books. *sigh* I remember my first unboxing. The lesson is keep pushing, keep your eye on the goal- it can happen.

And don’t forget to join Phil’s Amazon rush on 9th of July. Let’s get him up where he deserves to be!

A couple of new interviews I have done recently- I am talking about my journey. Both The Creative Penn and Coach Ian Scott give great interview. Have a listen- I think there are some pearls of wisdom in there.

The Creative Penn

And

Coach Ian Scott (with Tee Morris)

…and a cast of authors to make you drool- and me. Here’s the kick-arse vlurb for JC Hutchins kick-arse novel Personal Effects; Dark Arts.

JC has been using vlurbs to great effect- have a look right here and don’t forget to rush out and buy your copy

The cast of characters in the vlurb (excluding myself of course) are

I’ve had plenty of fun this past week, hanging with my peers online.

I got to talk with the Dead Robots and Helen Madden, Nick Scipio and Nobilis about writing erotica. It is a subject I am just learning about, but it was a fun time. (WARNING- you may have already guessed, but this is NSFW or children, or those with a sensitive disposition to subjects of a sexual nature). We cover lots of saucy stuff, so have a listen.

And then I had a great interview with Michell Plested of Get Published where I talk about my 12 year journey to this point of having a book deal with a New York Publisher. Have a listen here.

Well if I thought it was all just a mad dream, here is evidence that I am not. From May 2009 edition of Locus confirmation that the Ace deal is a go.

So I sent the contract by fast plane to New York, and now I have a date of publication. Geist will be out November 2010 and its sequel the following year.

I can’t wait to get start on final edits. Geist 2 (still have to come up with a satisfactory name) is about 15,000 words done and it is a lot of fun to get back to this world.

So apart from that writing here’s my calendar of things to get done

• Finish podcasting Weather Child.
• Begin planning and then podcast Digital Magic
• Write, edit, produce and podcast Books and Braun
• Write and podcast a series of perhaps 10 episodes of short stories in the Geist universe.

Tee Morris, the Social Media guru is heading to New Zealand. This is your chance to catch him and listen to his expertise. And here’s where and how to do it.

May 29-June 1
Conscription in Auckland, New Zealand

June 2
ANTI-Social Media, presented for LIANZA, 12pm-2pm
Room 420 Kate Edgar Information Commons Building #315
2 Alfred Street, University of Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand

All a Twitter, presented for LIANZA, 3pm-5pm
Room 420 Kate Edgar Information Commons Building #315
2 Alfred Street, University of Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand

June 3
Social Media Mainline Workshop for LIANZA, 9am-5pm
Computer Lab Room 433, Kate Edgar Information Commons Building #315
2 Alfred Street, University of Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand

June 15
ANTI-Social Media, presented for LIANZA, 12pm-2pm
Seminar Room, Reserve Bank of NZ
2 The Terrace
Report at ground floor reception no later than 11.45am
Wellington, New Zealand

All a Twitter, presented for LIANZA, 5pm-7pm
Conference Room, Department of Conservation
18-32 Manners Street
Report at ground floor reception no later than 4.45pm
Wellington, New Zealand

June 16
Social Media Mainline Workshop for LIANZA, 9am-5pm
SOLD OUT (Waiting List available)
Computer lab 510, Level 5, WelTec Wellington Campus
11-17 Church Street (off Boulcott Street)
Wellington, New Zealand

June 17

Speak Geek to Me, for Te Papa Tongarewa: The Museum of New Zealand, 10am-12pm
Location: TBA
Wellington, NZ

May 15th and Nina Kimberley the Merciless is coming out. If you love comedy, fantasy or women with swords (heck have all three) then on that day, buy this book. Christiana is a talented writer and we want her at the top of the charts on Amazon.

UPDATE And now the generosity continues- yes a free pdf copy of Nina Kimberly the Merciless. Have a read, have a laugh and one 15th May EST go buy your copy. The dark goddess will be there.

It’s been a long time coming, and it’s something I will have to get used to- but it has happened. After ebooks, small presses, and riding the wave of podcasting- I can finally tell you all. I have reached that thing that I have been dreaming of for over a decade of active writing.

Yes, I have just confirmed that I will in fact be an Ace Books author. Ace is an imprint of Berkley Books (which is part of Penguin), and has a fine history. The deal is for two novels, with the possibility of more if those sell. The book in question is indeed Geist, and a to be named sequel.

This will take some major adjustment in my mind set- but as you can imagine is very VERY exciting. I can now say that like Scott Sigler and JC Hutchins I have moved into the big leagues. The names I will be joining in Ace include Ursula Le Guin, Tanya Huff, and Tad Williams to name but a few. These are stellar names, and it is a pleasure to be in the same stable.

This totally justifies my decision this year to go part-time in the corporate library, but I am not yet at the point where I can be a full time writer. That’s OK, I’m on my way. I expect there will be huge amounts of work ahead, but I am ready for it.

This would not have been possible without the assistance of three people. Gabrielle Harbowy who helped me edit Geist and get it ready for the big time. Laurie McLean, my agent, who is both an inspiration and a rock. And Tee Morris, who was my sounding board, kick in the pants and inspiration.

The final details are still being ironed out, and I will keep you all in the loop as things progress.  All I can say is…. YESSSSSSSSSS!

The story I wrote, Geist is top of mind at the moment. This is the tale that I was motivated to write after my visit to America in 2007, when I got to rub shoulders with some of the most creative people I know- in both the writing and podcasting world.
Then a social media meme sprang up on Twitter among those same people, called Solidarity. Writers all over the globe posted their word count and supported each other to write more.

So Geist was born.

Deacon Sorcha Faris has plenty of supernatural problems and also her fair share of real life ones. A terrible riot caused by a geist attack has left her partner and husband badly injured and she is assigned a new partner that she doesn’t want. Merrick Chambers is young, talented and tormented by what he saw Sorcha do to his family years before. A good start to any partnership. As Active and Sensitive they are supposed to work seamlessly as a team. Sorcha wonders what their Abbot was thinking.
In the north, the Young Pretender to the throne that Sorcha’s Emperor now sits on, is struggling to find a safe harbor to make repairs to his ship. When Raed Rossin is offered the isolated village of Ulrich, he is grateful. However he cannot know that his ancient familial curse and the rising threat of the unliving will combine to make this place the most dangerous place for him to go.

The inspiration for the story is once again drawn from history. The world that Sorcha and her Deacons inhabit is based loosely on Imperial Russia, vast and packed with bickering Princes. The idea of an Emperor that was invited in to rule is not without precedent. George I of Greece and Haarkon VII of Norway were both born Danish princes.

The concept of the Deacons, who are sworn to protect the world from the unliving, came from several places. The Knights Templar might well have become the Deacons in another world. Organized in the same way as a religious order, they gave up the belief in what they call ‘the small gods’ in the face of a steady stream of paranormal attackers. While their weapons, the Gauntlet and the Strop hark back to ancient stories of artifacts imbued with special powers- the magical shield or sword of the Celts and Vikings.

And the challenges Sorcha faces… well I have always thought that in the fantasy genre real life personal crisises are not realistically portrayed. The hero rides off with the heroine and all is well. But what if the heroine chose the wrong person? What if like real life things changed? Hence Sorcha has to face the kind of turmoil people in our world know all too well.

So the supernatural, intrigue, dirigibles and a tormented heroine.

I have recently learnt what sort of geek I am. And frankly it was staring me in the face the whole time. Yeah, I am a gadget geek, a sci fi geek- but most of all I am a history geek.
Not surprisingly- I have two historical fantasy novel out! But I only realised this when I was putting together a google map for my podcast novel, Weather Child. I had so much fun making this map, and putting links to images from the past to go with it.
Wellington has a great little history, dark, violent and set in one of the most beautiful little cities in the world.
So check out the map, and follow along. As I drop episodes I will add more locations.

View Larger Map

Forgive me as I sway towards melancoly.

Today is April 1st and you will find a number of podcasters remembering Joe Murphy on this date, because two years ago he passed beyond the Veil. Yet he is not forgotten.

I never got the chance to meet Joe in person. I was preparing for my first trip to DragonCon in 2007, and was looking forward to meeting someone whose insight and charm I had enjoyed on shows like Slice of Sci Fi and Kick Ass Mystic Ninjas. I never got the chance- something I regret deeply. He touched the lives of a lot of people, some who had met him, many that had not. That is the beauty and power of podcasting.

Have a listen to the tribute show here and think about someone you lost today. We all have, and like it or not we all will pass that way too.

Then go hug someone you care about; a friend, a lover, a family member. Tell them how much they mean to you. One day you will not have the chance to.

Remember me when I am gone away,
Gone far away into the silent land;
When you can no more hold me by the hand,
Nor I half turn to go, yet turning stay.

It’s been one of those months- everything seems to be hanging on a knife edge, and it is not my preferred method of living I can tell you.

• Digital Magic (best novel- adult) and the podcast version of Chasing the Bard (best fan production) are up for Sir Julius Vogel Awards this year. This NZ version of the Hugos, just keeps getting bigger and better, so it really is an honour to be nominated.
• My wonderful agent Laurie is pitching Geist. This is the novel I am most proud of, with a main character I love and very much want to continue writing. It’s wide open to being a fun, exciting series. It’s on the desks of people I only ever dreamed of getting my stuff in front of. I am trying not to think about it or I might just chew my own fingernails off.
• The first of my guest chefs at Erotica a la Carte has landed. Susan Z’s A Heart of Hammered Brass is just wonderful. But the only problem is, listening to it *I* want to get back to writing for this series. I am thinking about pulling the whole thing together into a collection for podiobooks. I may also put my stories (or with permission the other chef’s stories) into some sort of e or print versions. For a project that I started just as a bit of fun, something to get me over my inability to write ’saucy’ scenes, EalC has really developed a life of its own. The numbers are starting to match Chasing the Bard!
• Books and Braun is coming on a pace. It should be done by the end of April. I am very much enjoying writing Eliza D Braun, secret agent from the Colonies (Yes, New Zealand)
• I am in the tentative acceptance stage of getting an technical editing job. This would mean I can make up some of the money I sacrificed by doing one day a week less at my corporate librarian job, but will make use of the skills I developed there.

Someone who knows about living on the edge is friend and fellow podcaster JC Hutchins. He has two books coming out this year and the first one Personal Effect: Dark Art is an combination of novel and ARG. Looks spooky and well worth checking out. The video is pretty kick-ass too.

When I started out working on Erotica a la Carte and thinking how I would manage it I knew there was one issue. Weather Child.

A lot of podcasters make the mistake of working too damn hard- or piling their plates too high. So after doing Chasing the Bard I knew approximately how much work is involved in producing a podiobook on time. It’s hard. And even though Weather Child is a smaller production (mostly due to the lack of lots of kiwi accents) I knew it was going to take a lot of effort.

And yet I am loving doing EalC- so I came up with the idea of having guest chefs in the kitchen. Susan Z of Steampunk Spectacular, J D Sawyer of Antithesis and my main collaborator, Tee Morris, have all offered their talents to me.

This three month break away from EalC means I can concentrate on Weather Child, but also means that other people will have a shot at the fun I’ve been having.

Susan has already got the results from her post, but go to Erotica a la Carte and vote on Dan’s. I love so many parts of this community, and am very excited to be sharing EalC with some of the brightest, best people in it.

It feels a little strange to say this… but I have a fan page. On Facebook. Someone sent me a message asking, I tweeted how weird and cool it was that someone asked, and next thing you know the lovely Scott Roche had created one. 

Anyway it has photos, discussion boards and I will post news and generally keep in touch with people over there. So if you love FaceBook then go check it out. If not, well we will still have this blog won’t we.

Well its been a while since I have been blogging so, let’s get into it.

First off Whispers at the Edge is on hiatus. I find I have just too many podcasting and writing projects that need to get done, and something had to give. I imagine it will be 3 months until I get back to it.

America was amazing fun. I got to spend some quality time with my favourite people who just happen to be my favourite podcasters. Chris Lester, Kitty Niciaian and Dan Sawyer, oh yeah and that guy Tee Morris. It was the first time I had met in person the San Francisco podcasting community, and it was an instant click. They are just fabulously talented, warm, wonderful people. I also got to see Scott Sigler and be there for his first book signing on the tour for Contagious. We got to hang out at a pub and I got made to feel bad. Two people approached me and said ‘if I’d know you were going to be here I would have bought my books for you to sign.’ If that was you, let me know – I have book plates to make up for it.

I got to have a very interesting conversation with my agent Laurie McLean, and came away feeling bouyed by the possibilities that the topsy turvey nature of the world may provide this year.

The Social Media Jungle in Vegas was a great chance to learn, and meet people in the sphere. And well with attending.

I got to see a lot more of Vegas than I had last time- including free tickets to O, the mesmerising Circe de Soleil show. Tee and I were able to take it in thanks to my fan Rachel Doughtery, who is one of the technicians behind the scenes at this amazing shows. It is an experience I will never forgot. It was also fun to to hang with her after. Vegas is somewhere that I will definitely be going back to. I never expected to like the town, but as crazy and weird as it is, I love it!

Books and Brawn, the steampunk CSI I am working on with Tee Morris is coming on at an amazing pace. It is a long time since I have collaborated with anyone, and I have forgotten how much fun it can be. We are on track for a late May release of this project.

And finally, Weather Child will be available from next week. This never before released novel, is set in New Zealand, and thus a first for the podcasting world. It can be found here

After a conversation with my agent and various other wonderful creative types in San Francisco a few days ago, I have realised that things are changing in a major way in the publishing business. The negative gear change in the economy is scary, but it is also bringing possibilities. When the old order falls, new ones have a chance to breathe- like a tree falling in the crowded forest give seedlings below light for the first time.

The internet and its possibilities has been nibbling on the edges of the big publishers for years, and while some have tried to make changes and adapt, many have not. Houghton Mifflin’s recent stop on acquiring books is a pretty big indicator that there is a lot of struggle going on behind the scenes in the publishing business.

So the arrival of Scott Sigler on the New York Times Bestseller Lists is I feel a marker in the timeline of change. Scott is, if you don’t know it a great guy, the first person ever to pick me up at San Francisco airport without knowing me. Now I am very used to meeting people from the internet, but back then- I admit I was a little nervous. Scott however was just happy and kind and pleased to meet me. He set the tone for all these other trips.

So now he’s made it. The guy who first podcast a never before published novel is on the most prestigious list in publishing. It is a great beginning for 2009 for him- and heck for all podcast novelists.

To Scott I say- congratulations. You’ve been working so hard in a bumpy year to get here- bask in it for a spell mate. (As a nice side effect I’ll be able to dine out on that whole rubbing-vodka-into-your-head thing now)

Things are changing for us all, so let’s get ready to ride that wave!

Been a tumult this year, but a productive one.

• I recorded Chasing the Bard and posted it to a better reception that I had anticipated.
• I started recording Erotica a la Carte and have found it to be a fun and challenging experience
• I began work on a short story, which became a novella (which got interest, but because I wanted more I had to decline with regret), which is now on its way to being a novel
• I attended DragonCon
• I had a successful launch of my novel Digital Magic, and a heck of a lot of fun with the Double Trouble Promotion with Tee Morris.
• My novel got to #53 on Amazon.com charts
• I had a lot of fun with voicework; including Metamor City, Codename:Starkeeper, Murder at Avedon Hill, and of course Morevi.
• I participated in a fun and challenging collaboration with other podcast authors in the Pieces Podcast
• I got my novel Geist edited and now in the hands of my agent

So what’s ahead in 2009??

• Sell some more novels- but that is the in the hands of my agent and the fates
• Weather Child- my New Zealand novel which has never been published anywhere before will be available as a podcast novel Feb 6th 2009.
• Erotica a la Carte will continue and I plan on having fun with guest chefs in the kitchen while Weather Child is running
• Working on a podcast only collaboration with Tee Morris. Steampunky goodness that may even make some money.
• Digital Magic will be available as a podiobook in the latter half of the year.
• I will be at Balticon to meet those other podcast novelists that I have missed meeting up until now
• I will in in San Francisco to meet Chris Lester and J D Sawyer, both of whom I respect and admire.
• I will be attending the CES in Las Vegas and I expect to learn a lot more on the social media side of things
• Both Digital Magic and Chasing the Bard are up for Sir Julius Vogel Awards in May- and I don’t mind saying I want to win one!
• I hope to have Erotica a la Carte, Chasing the Bard and Weather Child up for some Parsecs in September
• I will finish my new steampunk erotica novel Magic by Gaslight
• I’ll be trying to earn at least 10% of my income by writing, so plenty of schemes for making money are needed 
• I’ll be training a new literary cat (or two)
• Plenty of personal life changes that need to be made, but hopefully that won’t affect my writing
• Changes are also in the wind for Whispers at the Edge
• I hope to get to DragonCon again this year depending on finances

Whew, when I write it all done it seems a lot. I just want it to be a happy, productive year. 2008 has been a little bumpy with deaths, emotional turmoil and confusion but I hope for better things ahead. My wish is the same for you and yours.

Love

Pip

OK.. so here’s the deal. I am dipping my toe in the world of professional writing. I have reduced my hours at the library, and have one whole day a week to write. This means I have to make up the money I am not making in the corporate world in the free lance work. I am hoping this will be by selling a novel, but I am not going to count on that. So I have to explore other income streams.

My novels will still be free podiobooks, I am committed to that, but I was considering offering my novellette Magic and Gaslight as an audio download for the princely sum of $5. I’d love to hear what you think. It would probably operate on the honour system. You donate by PayPal and I send you to a link. I’d love to hear what you guys think- is that too pricey? Not pricey enough? I’m just starting out and would love some input.

Someone also suggested I could write a column. Though for who I again have no idea. If you have a suggestion or a need for a kiwi perspective on social media, podcasting or life then email me pip@pjballantine.net. Heck any suggestions about ways to make money writing would be great. Regardless I will be doing my 8 hours behind the computer, writing.

And that I find very, very exciting….

Thank you all! I have been informed and accepted nominations for Chasing the Bard (in Fan Production) and Digital Magic (for Best Novel) for the Sir Julius Vogel Awards. This is New Zealand’s version of the Hugo’s and I am so pleased to be nominated. In fact twice is even better! The awards are designed by Weta Workshop and are presented at the  Annual Science Fiction Convention, to be held in June in Auckland. (Conscription).

Now it is up to the judges, but you all responded wonderfully. So fingers crossed the 2009 is the year I get some awards on that mantle.

Now…. about those Parsec Awards…

Nominations open 1st December for the 2009 Sir Julius Vogel Awards. They are New Zealand’s Hugo Awards- but prettier. And yes, I would love to have one on my shelf. So here’s the deal. Email after 1st December sjv_awards@sffanz.sf.org.nz to let the committee know that you think Chasing the Bard is worthy of a shot at Best Fan Production and/or Digital Magic is worthy of a nod for Best Novel. They need my contact details which of course are pip@pjballantine.net

Thanks

Christmas is approaching, and I have a new box of books. So if you want to give some Fey magic to your loved ones (or yourself) then have I got a deal for you….

Well actually I have some books. For the princely sum of $US24.95 each (inc postage anywhere on our fair globe) each, you can have your own copy of Chasing the Bard or Digital Magic (or both)- signed by me! Yes… one day these may be worth selling for a princely sum on ebay.

Just email me at pip at pjballantine dot com with the details of how many, how you wanted it signed (personalised or just vanilla signature) and where to mail it. I’ll send you my PayPal details and Fey goodness will be on its way.

I only have limited copies and they do make very pretty gifts all the way from New Zealand.

The wonderful Nobilis from Nobilis Erotica has finished the final episode of the Pieces Podcast. Eight writers an one crazy experiment. As Nobilis said, the result was far from perfect. Writers are usually solo creators for a reason! Plot, characterisation, style; all are very personal, and are best handled by one, or at the most two writers. So no, Pieces is not perfect, but as I tweeted ‘an image seen through a broken lense may not be perfect but it can still be beautiful.’

So why did I take part I hear my dear readers asking? I wanted to stretch myself as a writer- which seems to be a constant theme with me. I love a challenge. I think by trying something new, something scary that you learn a lot more than simply staying in your comfort zone. And Pieces.. and Erotica a la Carte are WAY outside my comfort zone.

So what did I learn? I learnt about my style which is something I have always found it hard to pin down. Held up against other people’s style I got to see it in contrast. It is no better, and no worse than anyone else’s… but it is mine.

So go check out the podcast, and let me know what you think.

Also I posted the second Erotica a la carte story- which, though still banned from the itunes directory (insert favourite swear word here) seems to be catching on. And as the indominatable Tee Morris said to me ‘this experiment of yours is turning out to be quite interesting’. I hope you think so Morris, I want you to write an episode while I am doing Weather Child. It is fun… but I am getting itchy feet.

Geist is done, out in the world like a young person, making its way as best it can, and now I need to start something new. One year turnaround for a novel is pretty good for me, but I can’t just sit there relaxing. So I am turning my attention to new projects. I am going to take my 10,000 word novelette and expand it into a novel. It will be a little saucy, but no more than Kushiel’s Dart for example… which I hear has done quite well. The title for this new novel is tentatively Magic and Gaslight. I already have my 10K, so if I get back on the 1,000 words a day minimum I should be set.

Wish me luck!

photo by JR Blackwell

Who are the people that influence your career? Is it someone whose books you read and whose style you admire? Or is it someone that challenges you to strive harder and do better?
I have plenty of the first (even been lucky enough to meet some) but I only know of one of the second.
And since blog posts I sometime write can seem a bit whiney to my ears, I want to take this opportunity to say thanks to that person- one whose birthday it is today.
Yes, back in 2003 I was lurking on a fantasy writing email list, and this guy called Tee Morris was talking about his new book Morevi. I nervously wrote him my first email, little imagining that five years later I would be embarking on over a month media blitz/book tour with him.
I know I give Tee a lot of gyp over many things, but then I do that with pretty much everyone. It’s a hard habit to break, so I’m going out on a limb to try and do something different. Since he’s turning the big 4 O I want to set the record straight.
Without Tee Morris’ influence I wouldn’t have been brave enough to submit to DragonMoon Press. Without him I would not be podcasting- everything from Whispers at the Edge to Erotica a la carte owes a lot to him. Without him I would never have been able to do the amount of touring in the USA for the last three years I have. Without him Chasing the Bard, the podcast would not have been nearly as good. Without his constant challenges on Twitter I would not have written the novel my agent is getting ready to shop around in three months- if at all.
He’s been a sounding board, an inspiration- and yes occassionally a pain in the you know what. But he is also one of the kindest, most giving people in podcasting and writing. With all the difficulties Tee has had this year, he has managed to maintain that, despite a sometimes challenging response from people that don’t have a fraction of his good qualities.
I am proud to call him my friend.
If this sounds a bit glowing, a bit over the top, then please stop and consider this. How much on the internet is negative? How much is about pulling people down? Why do we do that, and not something like this?
We should celebrate those people that make our lives better. We should take a moment to say thanks, acknowledge those that are a positive influence.
And if that is corny I’m prepared to wear it. So Happy Birthday Mr Morris. Anyone who has ever met you knows you have the energy of a 20-something and now you have the wisdom of a 40-something. Use this power wisely.

Two podcasts in less than 24 hours! Yes I am both proud and exhausted. The first episode of Erotica a la carte is online (don’t forget to keep voting so I can keep writing) as well as a new episode of Whispers at the Edge. I am slowly pulling all my webpages and podcasts to Dreamhost and there will be some changes, the most important one right now, is that the feed for Whispers at the Edge has moved.

I am nearly done with some additional scenes in Geist and then… well then I will have to see if that Tee Morris character is ready to do some writing with me.

Closing off a project is hard. Especially when it is one as delightfully unexpected as the Chasing the Bard podcast has been. I’ve been blown away by the response to my little tale. The number of people who have called, written and contributed was something I never expected.

So the final bonus episode is posted- something I was putting off subconciously. It was a good way to end it. It you want a listen, check out the Will homage. Of course, the wonder that is the internet means the show continues on for those that have not heard it yet, so that continuing feedback I will appreciate.

Still I am a little blue…