Monday, November 16, 2015

Reading Romance: Making the Right Selections by Jacqueline Seewald


Although I’m a writer, I’m also a reader. In fact, I was a reader long before I became a writer. Reading inspired me to write. I would rather read fiction than nonfiction, although I do read both. I also enjoy reading and writing poetry. I love theatre and read and write plays and screenplays. My tastes are eclectic. But this blog isn’t about me, it’s about you the reader. So let’s get to it!

I’m discussing romance fiction. I admit it’s my secret love as a reader. I’m assuming you too like to read romance. Today more romance novels are being published than ever before. It’s a virtual deluge! At one time, if you were a fan of romance fiction, you borrowed hardcover or paperback books from the library. But libraries are feeling the pinch due to a poor economy and not buying as many titles as before. One solution is to go to a bookstore and buy paperbacks. But brick and mortar bookstores are going out of business. Part of this is due to online bookstores such as Amazon, now a giant in the industry. Digital books sold there and on other sites offer free and sale books constantly.

The big six of publishing have publicized and provided us with some outstanding romance writers such as Jane Ann Krentz, Nora Roberts, Mary Balogh, Robin Carr, Carla Neggers etc. Truthfully, it’s a long, long list including branded, certified writers that almost always provide good reads.

Currently, I am finding good reads among independent publishers. These are small presses that are particular about the books they accept. They provide professional editing and cover art. Their prices for digital and paperbacks are kept low in order to attract readers. The big problem is that the writers get virtually no promotion or publicity so that you the reader don’t get to know who they are or if their novels are a good fit for you. Self-published authors are in a similar predicament. Many of them write quality fiction, but finding a readership proves difficult.

With this in mind, I’m inviting writers to post in the comments to this blog. Tell readers a little about your current romance novel. Give us a brief blurb and a buy or site reference.
Readers, please discuss the type of romances you like to read.

I’ll get this started by mentioning two of my own romances.
DARK MOON RISING, adult Gothic paranormal romance from Luminosity, is available in All e-book formats and now in print. Check out the Five Star reviews on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00Z7824A4/

YA romance STACY’S SONG has been released in a new rewritten re-edited digital edition by Clean Reads Press which published THE DEVIL AND DANNA WEBSTER. Both novels are selling at bargain prices.  
Excellent editorial reviews on Amazon:


Okay, now it’s your turn to communicate!



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Friday, November 6, 2015

STACY’S SONG: Now Published in E-Book Formats!


 It’s my great pleasure to announce that STACY’S SONG has been released in a brand new digital edition by Clean Reads Press which previously published THE DEVIL AND DANNA WEBSTER, a novel popular with readers.

A young adult romance, STACY’S SONG, is special in many ways. Stacy’s attraction to a musician forces her to make some hard choices. The implied message is a good one--be true to who you are.


                       Check out some of the reviews posted on Amazon:

                          http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0177E67CQ

Editorial Reviews:

"Young readers will embrace Stacy...STACY'S SONG is a well written story about those awkward teen years, when the ugly duckling turns into a swan, and the rocky roads that teenagers traverse. This is an enjoyable, fun read, and I recommend it for young adults."
Deborah C Jackson, Romance Reviews Today
***** 
"This is a fun and speedy read, with a lead character you can't help liking...You don't have to be a teen to get a hoot out of this. Recommended." 
Snapdragon, Long and Short Reviews
 *****
"This is a wonderful young adult novel! Full of honest emotion, problems, conflict and a cast of fascinating characters, STACY'S SONG is a heartwarming story of a girl growing up and learning how to make thoughtful decisions that will affect her life today and in the future."
Alice Duncan, multiple award-winning author
*****

"This is an entertaining young adult tale starring a likable high school age girl who goes from being the outside freak to the in-crowd. Stacy is stupendous as she struggles with two boys; one is charming while the other is demanding. Who will she choose particularly since her dad has already selected who he wants kicked to the curb." 
Harriet Klausner, The Merry Genre Go Round Reviews
*****
“Jacqueline Seewald expertly portrays the mindset of teenagers struggling for their place in the world and ultimate independence. Stacy is an endearing character, a young woman who loves her parents but wants the right to choose what to do with her life. Readers are drawn into Stacy's world as she struggles to make the right choices which will affect her future. This well-written coming-of-age novel is heartwarming and engaging and sure to be a popular addition to the young-adult genre.”   
Christy Tillery French, Midwest Book Review

Besides Amazon, STACY'S SONG IS available from:



I believe it’s the kind of novel that mothers will want to share with their daughters. Here is a brief excerpt from the beginning of the book:

Chapter One

When I was in junior high school, the boys used to call me “Giraffe.” I hated it, but they were right. I towered over them. On top of that, I had this skinny, long neck. Things got better when I became a sophomore in high school. It seemed as though most of the boys in my class finally caught up with me and I didn’t feel so gawky anymore. But I’m still taller and skinnier than any of my friends.


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