Self-Publishing Book Review of the Week, Uncategorized, weekly self published book review

Tuesday Book Review: “On Liberty’s Wings”

Book reviews are a great way for self-publishing authors to gain exposure. After all, how can someone buy your book if he or she doesn’t know it exists? Paired with other elements of your book promotion strategy, requesting reviews is a great way to get people talking about what you’ve written.
When we read good reviews, we definitely like to share them. It gives the author a few (permanent) moments of fame and allows us to let the community know about a great book. Here’s this week’s book review:

on liberty's wings diane dettmann

On Liberty’s Wings: A Post-WWII Novel

by Diane Dettmann

Publisher: Outskirts Press

ISBN: 9781478714026

Synopsis*:

The end of World War II signals a new beginning for America, but for twenty-two-year-old Yasu Nakahara and her family, harsh prejudices remain. Now married and leading a new life, Yasu faces barriers almost as unyielding as the years she and her family spent imprisoned in the Japanese internment camp in California during the war. Motivated by flashbacks of armed military guards and barbwire fences, Yasu strives to build a new life. She pours her heart and soul into her new teaching position while her husband Masato, a World War II veteran, faces his own battles of attaining an engineering degree and securing a job. On Liberty’s Wings: A Post-WWII Novel is a story of the strength of the human spirit and focuses on themes of forgiveness, choice, prejudice and change. Readers become immersed in Yasu’s evolution and her family’s recovery as they celebrate victories and grieve their losses.

 * courtesy of Amazon.com

Featured Review

Book 3 of the Courageous Footsteps series continues the story of Yasu, who is now married and leading a new life in the aftermath of World War II, which landed her family in a Japanese internment camp and resulted in the death of her beloved brother. How does one recover to lead a new life in the aftermath of such gut-wrenching disaster? That’s one of the keys to understanding the determined, feisty Yasu’s process as she faces a vastly changed world and life, including a new teaching job and expanding opportunities, even as her husband Masato struggles to pursue a degree and faces losing his job to an experienced, returning war vet.

Readers who have followed Yasu’s evolution in previous books will especially appreciate seeing these threads of change, which force characters to consider new actions, reactions, and consequences of their behaviors even as society changes and evolves around them. While the story stands nicely alone as an individual piece, when read in the wider context of Yasu’s life, it serves as yet another jigsaw puzzle piece creating the bigger picture of the World War II experience. Especially when taken as an integral part of this blossoming series, it is recommended for mature teens to adult readers seeking far more psychological depth and social inspection than the usual focus on the Japanese experience in America during the War.

– reviewed on the Independent Publisher’s Shelf at the Midwest Book Review

Other Reviews

Diane weaves in the intensity of racial actions and words with a story that ‘Americanizes’ a small Japanese American family just trying to make it in post-World War II America. They face the additional challenge of experiencing the advantages and disadvantages of being a minority in our society. Dettmann captures the basic goodness in human nature, showing how many treated this family as if they weren’t different while including reminders that negative racial thoughts are as much a part of human nature as that goodness. As a third generation Japanese American born and raised in the Midwest, I believe that Diane writes with an awareness of what it’s like being racially different that is quite accurate.

– Amazon reviewer John Suzukida

On Liberty’s Wings is a powerful, gripping novel that made me want to read it all the way through, in one sitting. Diane Dettman’s saga sweeps us through many experiences—love, overcoming prejudice, the desire for a new life and recovery from trauma, and the power of the individual in the midst of collective transformation. I was enthralled by Dettman’s beautiful characters and her vivid descriptions of real historic events, as well as how they impacted the lives of so many people. As a historical novel, On Liberty’s Wings offers rich and poignant insight into the often-unrecognized stories of Japanese internment camps, as well as a sense of personal proximity to the struggles of individual people. The book, although fictional, is a testament to the courage of those who have faced the odds, and the power of empathy and shared humanity in restoring hope. The book sheds light on painful experiences, but it’s truly my definition of a feel-good novel. I recommend it highly!

– Amazon reviewer Kelly McNelis

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Thanks for reading!  Keep up with the latest in the world of indie and self-published books by watching this space!

Self Publishing Advisor

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news from the self publishing world, self publishing news, Uncategorized

Self-Publishing News: 3.19.2018 – New Releases!

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And now for the news!

Some highlights from this month in the world of self-publishing, specifically new releases written by self-publishing authors and published by independent presses! Today we’ll be featuring brand-new releases in the Outskirts Press Bookstore!

Today we’re focusing on new releases in Science Fiction, and the first new release we want to highlight is Tom Young’s latest book, Assimilation. This is the second in a series (the Emily Smith Trilogy) dealing with life on a post-environmental-collapse Earth, where the living is hard and friendships are vital. After all, who do you trust when you’re alone on a strange planet? That’s right, this series follows a sort of alien exchange program as Earth’s various governments put in place an agreement with the Andrians to secure peace and longevity on Earth. Jawane, Hanlee, and Persha have become the first Andrians to take part in this exchange, but their story doesn’t end there!

In this second installment, we meet Sara, whose unique brain chemistry places her at the heart of a powerful military industrial complex with the key to humanity’s future.

Next, we have Sue Westgate’s latest Science Fiction book, with a name which might twist your tongue and a story which will make you rethink language entirely. This collection of stories takes place over the course of several standard Galactic Years (GYs) and follows the work of Undercover Investigator Eeryda Daanin and her various companions, acquaintances, and cases as she delves into the crimes of this strange but delightful future. This is a future where nothing is simple, but everything is interesting. Well worth a look!

Last but not least, we have T. L. Howard’s latest book, The Final Choosing. In this heart-pounding novel of the present (with both heavy science fictional and heavy fantastical undertones), shopkeeper Mirah is suddenly catapulted to chosen ruler of the nation of Decera. But her greatest challenge is not one of governance–it is time itself. She must come to terms with–and hopefully master–an ancient prophecy brought to life by an old enemy who seems to outwit her at every turn. Buried in the prophecy is a terrifying and terrible truth: The gods are not what they seem, and everything which makes us human is in question. With time, her old enemy, running out, Mirah must parse the language of the dead and her own friends and fellow-travelers in order to understand the god to whom she has devoted her life, and the place her past and experience has in facing the future.

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As a self-publishing author, you may find it helpful to stay up-to-date on the trends and news related to the self-publishing industry.This will help you make informed decisions before, during and after the self-publishing process, which will lead to a greater self-publishing experience. To help you stay current on self-publishing topics, simply visit our blog every Monday to find out the hottest news. If you have other big news to share, please comment below.

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brent sampson, Brent Speaks, Uncategorized

What is the difference between a Publishing Guide and a Publishing Kit?

Nearly all online self-publishing companies offer authors an “incentive” to join their newsletter or mailing list. In most cases, this is the company’s own “Publishing Guide.”  These guides vary from sleek sales brochures to informative books covering the process of self-publishing (typically with that particular self-publishing company).

outskirts press publishing guide

Other self-publishers offer “white papers” or “tip sheets” or “advice columns” focusing on one or more specific topics or obstacles an author may face when publishing a book. While often more informative (at least about said topic or obstacle), these white papers are usually much shorter, and therefore of less perceived value, than a “Publishing Guide.”

An elite few combine their publishing guide with a robust collection of white papers and tip sheets to create a Publishing Kit for prospective clients. The guide typically markets the company and its offerings, perhaps sheds light on the self-publishing and book marketing processes, and shines a light on a successful author or two.  The white papers, advice columns, and tip sheets, on the other hand, identify core questions or issues facing many writers and offers suggestions or solutions to pave an author’s path toward publication.

Outskirts Press launched its brand new Publishing Kit this February, featuring their publishing guide, self-publishing white paper, brochure, and a collection of tip sheets covering everything from best practices for book pricing to book title considerations/recommendations.  Plus, my latest book, Self-Publishing Questions Asked & Answered is included as a bonus. New clients can get the Publishing Kit instantly at https://outskirtspress.com/book-publishing.html#ebooks

brent sampson
In 2002, Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Semi-Finalist Brent Sampson founded Outskirts Press, a custom book publishing solution that provides a cost-effective, fast, and powerful way to help authors publish, distribute, and market their books worldwide while leaving 100% of the rights and 100% of the profits with the author. Outskirts Press was incorporated in Colorado in October, 2003.
In his capacity as the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Marketing Officer, Brent is an expert in the field of book publishing and book marketing. He is also the author of several books on both subjects, including the bestseller Sell Your Book on Amazon, which debuted at #29 on Amazon’s bestseller list.
Book Reviews, Self-Publishing Book Review of the Week, Uncategorized, weekly self published book review

Tuesday Book Review: “The Secret of Bald Rock Island”

Book reviews are a great way for self-publishing authors to gain exposure. After all, how can someone buy your book if he or she doesn’t know it exists? Paired with other elements of your book promotion strategy, requesting reviews is a great way to get people talking about what you’ve written.
When we read good reviews, we definitely like to share them. It gives the author a few (permanent) moments of fame and allows us to let the community know about a great book. Here’s this week’s book review:

secret of bald rock island charles salter

readers' favorite book award winner

The Secret of Bald Rock Island

by Charles A. Salter

Publisher: Outskirts Press

ISBN: 9781478770848

Synopsis*:

Can Kelcie solve the island’s TWO mysteries in time?

Ten-year-old Kelcie Oglethorpe’s fisherman father disappeared at sea years ago. Since then, Kelcie has befriended Bald Rock Island’s beloved Mr. Bartleby, a kindly man devoted to the village and its children. He often warns of a mysterious creature he once saw on the island’s bald dome which towers a hundred feet above the sea, yet is hollow inside and connected to sea life by underground channels. Kelcie decides to help Mr. Bartleby solve the island’s two enduring mysteries-what happened to her father, and what the sea creature might be. She learns that Mr. Bartleby was her father’s lifelong best friend. During that terrible storm off the coast of Maine, Mr. Bartleby risked his own life to do everything possible to save Kelcie’s dad, but no sign was ever found.

Kelcie criss-crosses the island in search of clues and thinks she knows where she can find the ultimate answers. She resolves to explore the forbidden area of the island, and as she puts the final pieces of the puzzle together, a new storm arises. Can she solve the mysteries and return to safety before the new storm claims her as the previous one did her father? And what will she do when she finally confronts the mysterious creature face to face?

 * courtesy of Amazon.com

Featured Review

The Secret of Bald Rock Island (Kare Kids Adventure #1) by Charles A. Salter is an exciting children’s adventure about a young girl determined to solve the mystery of her father’s disappearance. Ten-year-old Kelcie Oglethorpe has always been curious and ready for adventure. Mr. Bartelby, the town’s well-known and much-loved writer, is always willing to tell the children a story. When Mr. Bartelby tells the children of a mysterious creature that inhabits Bald Rock, Kelcie decides that it is time to solve the peculiar puzzle concerning her father’s disappearance and discover if Mr. Bartelby’s extraordinary story holds truth. Doing some research, Kelcie finds little to help her solve her dad’s disappearance until she reads an article written by Mr. Bartelby. As things start to come together in Kelcie’s head, she realizes what she must do. Only, she has been warned that it could be too dangerous. Can Kelcie solve the mystery of the strange creature and find her father? Will her determination prove to be deadly?

The Secret of Bald Rock Island (Kare Kids Adventure #1) by Charles A. Salter is a children’s mystery story taking place on a small Maine island. I enjoyed reading this story and, although it is short, it is well thought out. The characters are entertaining, and the storyline isn’t overly complicated. With a good portion of the inhabitants being of Scottish descent, this book is also educational. I believe that this book is perfect for the child just beginning to read chapter books as it isn’t too long, and contains easily understood concepts. It is a well-rounded mystery with intriguing characters and a fascinating monster. Being the first story in a series, it will be interesting to see what other mysteries happen on Bald Rock Island in the next story. I would recommend this book to children aged eight to ten.

– reviewed by  Alyssa Elmore for Readers’ Favorite

Other Reviews

The Secret of Bald Rock Island by Charles A. Salter begins with a lilting mystery that begs to be read aloud by children around a camp-fire while the sun goes down. The voice is clear and pleasingly individual, with turns of phrase that perfectly fit the telling of monsters, dangers and more. But the story has a dark side too, as a little girl mourns her father, lost at sea.

The language in this children’s book is simple but beautifully descriptive. The mystery is haunting and sadly plausible. And the determined little protagonist is sweetly honest and true. It’s nice to read a new story for children where foolish choices are resolved by the wise, and not all the wisdom comes from guardian adults. Bald Rock Island is a story that inspires bravery, common sense, and a pleasing recognition of human emotion. It’s a fun tale, a captivating read, and a good story to share with a middle-grade reader.

Disclosure: The author was interviewed on my blog and I was delighted to be given the opportunity to read his book.

– Amazon reviewer Sheila Deeth

What a fun read. This book is short but it reads like a full length novel. I found both Kelcie and Mr. Bartleby enjoyable characters. They were kindred souls. After hearing Mr. Bartleby’s story of the monster of Bald Rock Island, I like Kelcie was very intrigued to solve the mystery of what happened to her father and just what type of monster did Mr. Bartleby see that day. I am so glad that Kelcie did not let her age stop her from taking charge and solving the mysterious disappearance of her father. Plus, she did meet the monster and if I had come face to face with it like she did I would have screamed too. Yet she showed compassion as well. I would say that Mr. Salter accomplished his goals with this book by teaching children to be caring and fearless. I thought that the book was well written and easy to follow along so that my nephews or other young readers could read this book by themselves with no struggles. I want to read the second book in this series. A great series for children.

– Amazon reviewer Cheryl

tuesday book review

Thanks for reading!  Keep up with the latest in the world of indie and self-published books by watching this space!

Self Publishing Advisor

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Self-Publishing News: 3.12.2018 – The Interviews!

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And now for the news!

Some highlights from this month in the world of self-publishing, specifically interviews with or articles written by self-publishing authors and experts!

In this article, published in The Daily Wildcat (the official paper of the University of Arizona and surrounds) during the lead-up to the Tucson Festival of Books (held this last weekend), Mekayla Phan dives into the indie publishing experience of one Christoper Patterson. A Tucson native and graduate of UA, the story might seem at first glance to be an extended (if interesting) promotion for the event, which is one of the city’s as well as the UA’s biggest literary and academic events each year. But as Phan makes clear, Patterson’s experience in publishing has relevance outside of any one time of year and any one location. For here is the prototypical story of a modern author, one who started out on a traditional publishing path because that was the literary ideal, but who ended up “going indie” and choosing to self-publish for reasons of rights and control over the finished product. Says Patterson, “Twenty or 30 years ago, if you self-published fiction it was because you weren’t good enough for anyone to pick you up — no publishing company wanted to work with you, no agency wanted to work with you, so you self-published [….] The idea was that is you had sub-par quality, but that is just not the case anymore.” And we are happier for it! You can read the rest of Phan’s article on The Daily Wildcat website.

We may not talk about dieselfunk a great deal on this blog–alright, so we’re pretty sure we haven’t talked about it before, ever–but that doesn’t mean we’re not paying attention. This week, Jude Terror engages with indie comic legend Jeff Smith for lovers not just of dieselfunk (which, according to the website http://www.dieselfunk.com, run by the same people as the “Dieselfunk Dispatch,” involves “an alternative past where the pulp stylings of Buck Rogers, Flash Gordon, and Fritz Lang’s Metropolis collide with the real world events of World War 2, FDR, Nazis, the Harlem Renaissance and the oppressive Jim Crow era”) but lovers of indie comics and indie publishing in general. For those not familiar, Jeff Smith became a legend for hand-selling his comic series, Bone, which was an even more arduous process in the 90s than it is now. Bone is now available in collected, beautifully-bound editions at most comic book stores, but that didn’t used to be the case. Once upon a time, Smith went his own way when no one else would support him. Jude Terror’s column is less of a thorough overview of Smith’s story than it is an introduction, but we think it’s an interesting place to start if you’re looking to learn more about Smith’s work and how Bone has become part of a larger ecology of indie publishing.

Last, but certainly not least, we turn to this interview of self-publishing author Heather Leigh in Eureka’s Times-Standard. Some authors are inspired by dreams, others by happenstance and serendipity. Heather Leigh was inspired by something a little more unusual: a love letter drawn on a chalk board. Says Leigh, ““As part of cleaning out the business next door to the one-room schoolhouse in Orick, there was a sale of a bunch of random stuff and there was this chalkboard. Somebody had written a love letter on a chalkboard.” From the moment she stumbled across this unusual find, Leigh began to put together the plot of her latest book, The Earth Game Option, which she self-published. Like Patterson, Leigh has previously gone the traditional publishing route, but found it didn’t answer to her needs. Leigh poses a relatable question for any author: “How do you take all the sublime existential stuff and make it into a novel? It has to be transformed a bit. You have to make it fun.” But how to do that? One way is to get out and reconnect with her body through Zumba … but also to allow herself to not always be focused and orderly. “I go to Zumba class and I can’t concentrate because I am thinking about the characters in the novel,” says Leigh. “‘Should she do this? What happens next?’ All these questions come.” And that’s okay, the article suggests. It’s okay to not have all the answers. You can read the full article online at the link!

spa-news

As a self-publishing author, you may find it helpful to stay up-to-date on the trends and news related to the self-publishing industry.This will help you make informed decisions before, during and after the self-publishing process, which will lead to a greater self-publishing experience. To help you stay current on self-publishing topics, simply visit our blog every Monday to find out the hottest news. If you have other big news to share, please comment below.

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