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Website Wonders: For Readers & Writers

20 Jun

Website Update: I am sad to announce I’ve been accused of cheating on Goodreads for the Book of the Month competition. If you’ve voted for Minutes Before Sunset, please verify your identity on the forum as commenters believe 0 books, 0 followers are fake accounts, and this is simply not true. (For instance, if you voted through Facebook, this may have happened.) I have not cheated, and I love my followers. You know how important you all are! You inspire me :] and I’m saddened to see such accusations towards my followers. I have messaged the host of the poll, so I’ll keep everyone updated as this situation is handled properly and effectively. 

If you all recall, Minutes Before Sunset needed nominations for “Book of the Month” on Goodreads, and you all succeeded! But I need votes. PLEASE VOTE BY CLICKING THE LINK. We’re in first place thanks to your votes, but I need all of the support I can get to stay in this position. 

Thank you for voting: Gregory S. Lamb, Christina Channelle, Amber Forbes, Bob Williams, Marie Bailey, Laura B., Raymond, Silver Wolf, Christie, Kristy Feltenberger Gillespie, Dale Spiller, Dan Pawlowski, Peter John, Tuan Ho, Raul Diaz, Nada Faris, Chris, Jessica, Merilyn Dignum, Andree, Charles E. Yallowitz, Vickie Kayuk, Kerri, Sarah, Ky Grabowski,David Thompson, Chris the Story Reading Ape, Hereswhatsgoingon, Daryl Stewart, Emma, Heather, Abbie, James, Kendal, and Camrin!  

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So I used to do posts under the topic “Website Wonders.” Basically, I’d share a website that I thought was good for writers and/or readers to use in order to enhance their artistic lives. However, my “last” one was back in January, because I really stopped labeling them as such. (Mainly because they’d be a part of something else, like a Writing Tips post.) But today I bring it back.

On December 8, 2012, I wrote Website Wonders: Twitter: ShanAshleeT23, which directed followers to my Twitter while also giving tips on how to promote yourself via Twitter. I did this for an important reason. I often share websites I come across on my Twitter, and I do this on a regular basis. So today’s post will be the top sites I’ve found and shared on my Twitter in the past month or so:

Writing & Publishing:

 

 

Click the pic to join me on Twitter!

Click the pic to join me on Twitter!

Reading

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I also share funny things on my Twitter about my every day life: This is a giant cinnamon roll I ate! It came with a steak knife. How awesome is that?

I also share funny things on my Twitter about my every day life: This is a giant cinnamon roll I ate! It came with a steak knife. How awesome is that?

Cinnamon Roll

If you all find any websites you like as a reader or a writer, comment below to share it :D Also, I hope you voted. It really helps me out. I’m simply flattered you support me here! And I’m excited, because so many more people are supporting Minutes Before Sunset now that the paperback has been released through all major retailers. Check it out if you haven’t already:

Click the picture of Minutes Before Sunset! Available as paperback and ebook on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords, Kobo, Diesel, Sony, and Apple. 

Click the pic and go to Amazon!

Click the pic and go to Amazon!

~SAT

June 23: It’s My Birthday :]

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Why I Won’t Give Up

18 Jun
This is my favorite photo of my mother, and I share it on my video.

This is my favorite photo of my mother, and I share it on my video.

WEBSITE UPDATE: If you all recall, Minutes Before Sunset needed nominations for “Book of the Month” on Goodreads, and you all succeeded! But I need votes. PLEASE VOTE BY CLICKING THE LINK. We’re three votes away from first place. I need all of the support I can get :D  

Thank you for voting: Gregory S. Lamb, Christina Channelle, Amber Forbes, Bob Williams, Marie Bailey, Laura B., Raymond, Silver Wolf, Christie, Kristy Feltenberger Gillespie, Dale Spiller, Dan Pawlowski, Peter John, Tuan Ho, Raul Diaz, Nada Faris, Chris, Jessica, Merilyn Dignum, Andree, Charles E. Yallowitz, Vickie Kayuk, Kerri, Sarah, Ky Grabowski, David Thompson, Chris the Story Reading Ape, and Hereswhatsgoingon, !  (I’ll add your site here when you vote too!)

This post was inspired by Ky Grabowski, a writer and reader I mentioned on my last post: Published Paperback & Spotlight Interview. On June 7, 2013, Ky blogged Why I Won’t Give Up, and her story inspired me to share mine. So I shot a video explaining details of my life I haven’t released before, and I’ve added a link below. I’ve also added quotes to give you an idea of what it’s about, but there’s a file to open the text if you prefer to read. It’s four pages long or I would’ve posted it directly onto my site.

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Quotes from my “Why I Won’t Give Up” Video:

  • You know every day you’ll have a moment of doubt. Every day. But you’ll also have hours of happiness and encouragement and people who believe in you and people you believe in. And it’s worth it again. It’s always—it’s worth it. Everything is worth it.
  • When I was sitting here and I was looking at this, I was thinking “How many people dream of this?” “How long have I dreamed of this?” “What do I still dream of?” I dream of getting people to this point. I dream of people being able to look at this: their words on a printed page, their name on a binding, their picture on the back of a book. This is what I dream of for others. That’s why I don’t stop.
  • My dream is why I continue. I continue for others. My dream is for others.
When "November Snow" was published, my father surprised me with this gift: the printed cover inside a silver frame.

When “November Snow” was published, my father surprised me with this gift: the printed cover inside a silver frame.

Watch the video by clicking this link or read the text by clicking the file: Video Text. 

"November Snow" was originally titled "It's Only a Matter of Time" and this is the original burnt file.

“November Snow” was originally titled “It’s Only a Matter of Time” and this is the original burnt file.

Specifically speaking, I talk about my nightmares and night terrors in detail, explaining an in-between place that inspired most of my novels today. I also talk about my mother’s inspiration and how her sudden death effected my life. I share a lot of information about November Snow I haven’t had a chance to talk about before, and I compare those details to being published in the poetry collection dedicated to my late roommate. In the end, I discuss my ultimate goal in life, which isn’t to become a famous author, but rather to open an affordable art school for talented young adult to be able to connect with professionals in their field.

"November Snow" "Poets: a collection of twelve young Kansas poets" & "Minutes Before Sunset." My publications that push me forward to continue chasing the dream.

“November Snow” “Poems: a collection of twelve young Kansas poets” & “Minutes Before Sunset.” My publications that push me forward to continue chasing the dream.

I truly summed up the video compared to the original explanation, but I did this, because I really hope others will share why they won’t give up. Towards the end I said this: “I hope other people analyze their dreams on a deeper level to see if they’re actually dreaming for themselves or if they’re dreaming for another reason entirely.” What I mean by this: we may have the dream to be an author, but what’s beyond that? Even if the answer is to share your words (and themes) with the world, you’re dreams are beyond what I think we might realize on a regular basis.

So take time today. Think about your ultimate goals when it comes to writing (or goals in general) and feel free to share. By sharing this post, I’m hoping to keep this topic going within the writing community. Share your story below or post on another blog altogether. Let’s inspire others together :D

~SAT

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Paperback Published & Spotlight Interview

14 Jun

WEBSITE UPDATE: If you all recall, Minutes Before Sunset needed nominations for “Book of the Month” on Goodreads, and you all succeeded! But I need votes. PLEASE VOTE BY CLICKING THE LINK. I need all of the support I can get :D

Thank you for voting: Gregory S. Lamb, Christina Channelle, Amber Forbes, Bob Williams, Marie Bailey, Laura B., Raymond, Silver Wolf, Christie, and Kristy Feltenberger Gillespie.  (I’ll add your site here when you vote too!)

Minutes Before Sunset is officially available as a paperback through Amazon and Barnes & Noble. It’s been available as a pre-order, but now it will ship to your house when you order it! I’m really excited, because this is a day I’ve been waiting on for a long time! If you click on the picture below, you’ll be taken directly to Amazon, which has the cheapest prices and the most reviews. I’m always excited to share my stories, but I’m even more excited to share your thoughts. If you do a review, let me know, and I will link your websites on this very page! Thank you for all of your support.

Click the pic and go to Amazon!

Click the pic and go to Amazon!

I wanted to share one of my most supportive followers, Ky Grabowski. A fellow writer and reader, you all may recognize Ky Grabowski. She hosts The Inner Workings Of My Mind, and she’s reviewed Minutes Before Sunset already. She also won a signed paperback. It’s a treat to connect with my readers like this. But she made my day when she sent me a tweet including a picture of her with Minutes Before Sunset. 

Ky Grabowski with "Minutes Before Sunset."

Ky Grabowski with “Minutes Before Sunset.”

I also mention Ky Grabowski for another reason.  Ky Grabowski is also doing a “Spotlight” feature on her blog, and I’m excited to announce I was featured on this yesterday. She interviews authors and other artists, and her questions include focus on Minutes Before Sunset, inspiration, advice for new writers, and fun questions. Here’s a preview: 

“What would you like readers to get from your book (s) ?

My ultimate goal when writing a novel is to help young adults understand decision-making and moral values. I also encourage teens to think outside the stereotype box. For instance, “Minutes Before Sunset” includes a character named Crystal Hutchins. She may dress like a “punk,” but she’s an aspiring journalist, and she loves events, so she’s very excited about prom. This character was created carefully, because I wanted to show there is more to a person than just their dress or their actions. She may contradict herself, but that’s simply an action created by her trying to figure out who she wants to be.”

Read the rest of this interview by clicking this link. 

Ky has graciously given me three spots for the Spotlight Feature to fill, so you can be showcased on her website! Comment below, and let me know if you’re interested.

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And help me celebrate today’s release by checking out Minutes Before Sunset! Available as paperback and ebook on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords, Kobo, Diesel, Sony, and Apple.

~SAT

June 16, 2013: Why I Won’t Give Up

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Updates: Chapter Two, Book of the Month Nomination & New Cover Photos

6 Jun

June 8th Update: My Facebook Author Page went over 400 likes tonight! Thank you for the support, everyone! Your kindness encourages the future in the best way an author can hope for.

Just a reminder: I am going on vacation, and I will be back Wednesday, June 12th. Until then, check out my new cover photos on my Facebook pages, help me by voting for my novel in the “Book of the Month” nomination from Goodreads, and check out chapter two from Minutes Before Sunset.

Book of the Month Nomination:

Minutes Before Sunset has been nominated for “Book of the Month” for July on Goodreads. If you click the link, you can vote too by seconding Christie (message 19) or any of the others who’ve voted for me. I’d really appreciate the support!

Special thanks goes to voters and supporters: Christie, Raymond, Amber, Silver Wolf, Greg Kelly, Kristy Feltenberger Gillespie, Stephanie, Nadine, and Vickie Kayuk! I really appreciate the votes! They really help, and I appreciate all the support I can get.

Goodreads: 4.55 average rating, 11 ratings, 7 reviews, added by 34 people, 23 to-reads.

New Cover Photos: 

As many of you know, I have three Facebook pages, which include the latest updates of Shannon A. Thompson, Minutes Before Sunset, and November Snow. As of yesterday, I’ve updated the cover photos of Shannon A. Thompson and Minutes Before Sunset to represent that specific page more directly. They’re below, but feel free to click the links and “like” the pages!

Shannon A. Thompson Facebook Cover Photo

I chose this collage, because it includes my three publications, and I thought it represented my history and future. I love being able to share my works, and I cannot wait to continue to do so.

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Minutes Before Sunset Facebook Cover Photo

Before I had an “Available Now” photo, but it’s been one month, and I thought the cover needed a change–something directly about the novel while hinting as to what the book was about. If you’ve seen the November Snow page, then you may recognize this format: I used the cover with the most popular quote from Goodreads.

MBScover

Because I’ll be gone for one week, I thought I’d leave a sneak peek into chapter two of Minutes Before Sunset. Feel free to read it below. However, I want to clarify that the novel has indentions on paragraphs and such, but WordPress won’t allow me to add them. You don’t even have to open a PDF file! 

Chapter Two: Eric:

I was raised with three simple rules:

  1. Fight defensively and offensively.
  2. Under no circumstances is it safe to reveal your identity. (Unless it’s Urte, Pierce, Camille, or anyone else the elders deemed an exception.)
  3. Win.

The last rule is my favorite, because of the dishonesty. Win didn’t mean win. It meant murder. It meant I had to kill the second descendant, the power of the Light, and I had no choice. I would get blood on my hands.

I brushed my hand along the shivering trees as my gaze darted around the darkening forest. I rarely had time to leave our underground shelter and use my powers, and I didn’t feel like wasting my night chasing Camille around in the dark.

I threw my senses out around me. The forest reeked of evergreen and pine. I could feel every prickly leaf and see every shadow. From stump to stump, I searched the darkness for Camille’s body heat. No one could avoid my radar.

Bingo. I grinned as I locked onto a girl by the river. I sprinted through the thicket, pushing past scraping branches and leafless oak trees. As I neared the forest’s opening, my body sunk into the shadows, and my skin tingled as it morphed into the chilly air. It was the greatest feeling—other than flying, of course—and I relished in the moment. The blackness of night flowed with me as I floated along the trees, the leaves, or snow. I was enveloped in silk.

I only solidified when I reached the forest’s edge. Just as I thought, a girl stood on the river’s guardrail, but she wasn’t Camille.

She didn’t have Camille’s white hair or mischievous dark eyes. In fact, this girl didn’t even look Camille’s age. She was my age, and she had the dark hair, pale eyes, and the pale skin complexion that our sect had.

She was undoubtedly a shade, but I didn’t know her.

My fingers gripped my jacket as I moved backwards, trying to conceal myself in the darkness, but the girl spun around and stared at me. She was perfectly still when her purple eyes met mine. She didn’t budge. Instead, she pointed at me, and the dark magnetically trailed her fingertips.

“Who—” She stepped off of the railing, and her eyes widened. “Who are you?”

I put my hands in front of me and stepped out of the forest. This must be one of Camille’s illusion jokes.

“Who are you?” she asked, backing up against the river’s guardrail.

I didn’t respond. Instead, I flew through the shadows and reappeared in front of her. My body heat escaped me, and she froze, completely petrified by my closeness. I laid my hand on her cheek, expecting her to disappear like any of Camille’s illusions, but she didn’t. She was real, and we were centimeters apart, teetering over the edge of the river.

She didn’t move. I had the ability to hypnotize any shade, but I hadn’t used any power. She was shaking—shivering—beneath my touch, and her heartbeat thundered her energy through my veins.

How odd. She was powerful, yet fear suffocated every bit of her being.

“Shoman!”

A shout split the air, and I sensed a body rushing through the forest. Camille was coming for me. “Where are you?”

Reflexively, I released the girl and turned to the forest, waiting for Camille to appear. Over here, I said, sending her a telepathic message. Immediately, she appeared in a beam of light.

Her dark eyes were ablaze as she picked sticks and dried leaves from her glittering hair. “What the hell, Shoman? At least tell me where you are going if you want to be alone.”

“I was with—” I closed my mouth as I waved my hand towards the nameless girl, but the ground where she once stood was empty. Nothing. No marks or anything signifying her leave. She was gone.

Impossible. No shade had ever been able to stay off my radar, yet I hadn’t felt her leave. It was as if she had never been there.

“With who?” Camille asked, trudging up to me.

“Shh,” I held up my hand and threw my senses out.

Camille tensed, and her black eyes darted around. “What are you looking for?”

“Be quiet,” I said, spinning in tight circles. My senses were useless. Nothing was there. Not even a bat or a plane. I was being blocked.

I grabbed my guard’s boney shoulders. “Camille, who else was out here tonight?”

“No one. Everyone is at the Naming,” she said, rolling her eyes. “If you haven’t forgotten, you’re supposed to be there.”

“I don’t care,” I said, ignoring the ceremony of the last harvest. It was hard to forget. A thick layer of frost coated the dying grass, and I knew that the first layer had fallen yesterday morning. As the first descendant, I always went, but my father hadn’t in years, and I was beginning to forget the point.

Camille touched my arm. “Is something wrong, Shoman?” she asked, widening her eyes. “Was someone here?”

“No,” I lied, patting her palm. “Let’s go,” I said. I dissolved into a shadow.

…

Minutes Before Sunset is available as an ebook and paperback on Amazon (4.5 Stars from 15 reviews), Barnes & Noble (4 stars from 5 reviews), Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, Sony, and more. 

I hope everyone has a great week! I’ll try to send pictures from my vacation. If I don’t expect some on June 12th.

~SAT

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Update & Goodreads Nomination

4 Jun

I have exciting news, and I could really use some Goodreads help!

My novel, Minutes Before Sunset, was nominated for Book of the Month for July, and it’s in the initial voting process. If you have a Goodreads, I’d love if you could follow this link and second Christie on message 19. It’d really help me out, and I can thank you and  your blog on my next post!

Speaking of blogging, Thursday (June 6) will be my last blog post for one week. I’ll be back June 12th (the next Wednesday.) I am going on vacation! So I might send a picture or two from my phone, but it’ll be difficult to post writing tips or publishing tips while I’m gone. I appreciate the patience, because I’ll come back with a whole list of new websites, tips, and encouraging posts to support your novels and other writings! (My summer class recently started, so I’ve also been really busy with that–foreign films from the 1930′s!)

But I’m delighted to say three more quotes have been added to Goodreads from the review given by the Coffee Shop Reader: Click the number if you’d like to see it on Goodreads.

1. “You’re either very brave or very foolish.” “What’s the difference?” (Eric)

2. “She reminded me of what it was like to believe in something.” (Eric)

3. “He was beyond intimidating. He was overwhelming.” (Jessica)

More Minutes Before Sunset quotes can be found here. 

AEC Stellar Publishing is still giving out free copies of Minutes Before Sunset in an exchange for a review. Simply email ShannonAThompson@aol.com if you’re interested, and I can send you an ebook.

Hope everyone is having a great day! Keep reading, writing, and dreaming :]

~SAT

P.S. As many of you know, I LOVE trees–hence why I have a willow tree in Minutes Before Sunset. This is a picture of a trail I found when visiting a lake the other day. I thought the layout of the trees was remarkable. Although it wasn’t very sunny, walking beneath the canopy of trees in the wind turned a sparked memory into a flame–reminding me of my original reason for using a willow tree as a symbol, and I wanted to share that moment with everyone!

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Minutes Before Sunset: One Month

2 Jun

I’ve been overwhelming happy with all that’s happened over the past month. It’s a gift to be able to share my words and stories with readers, and I am working hard to get “Seconds Before Sunrise” ready for publication this Fall. Speaking of which, this blog will be changing in the future to support the entire trilogy. It will have the same layout, but I will announce when it’ll have new pages (with more extras!) I’ll probably be adding a page for just writing and publishing tips too, so you can go back without having to use my search engine.

Onto today’s topic: I have one review by Coffee Shop Reader and an interview from The Kuwait Times, but I’ll also be sharing stats and feelings over my recently published novel, Minutes Before Sunset. I also have a press release from AEC Stellar that I’d like to share. It includes my novel, but it also shows upcoming and talented novelists, including Amber Skye Forbes, Oliver Chase, and Gregory S. Lamb!

Coffee Shop Reader Review

“Thompson’s reversal of the Light/Dark archetypes is really interesting and wonderfully unnerving and seeing the two extremes come face to face during intense battle scenes only highlighted the genius of this role reversal. HOLY DRAMATIC IRONY. For the majority of the novel, my mind was screaming “OMG listen to me! I know stuff you don’t!” and it was oh, so good. Thompson’s use of dramatic irony kept me on my toes, just waiting to see when the characters would figure out things. Also, Thompson sketches in her foreshadowing beautifully. I cannot wait to find out what’s in store for Eric and Jessica in Seconds Before Sunrise. The romance is genuine and did not have raging teenage hormones; instead, it shows that…(ahh, best part. You’ll have to read it!)”

Read the rest here. Additionally, the host aspires to live in the realm of stories, and she loves reviewing novels, so check her out! Her reviews are detailed and honestly balanced.

The Kuwait Times Interview

“Shannon is a young writer who dedicates her books to people she had loved and lost. She wrote her first novel when she was 13-15 years old, and her second novel when she was 14-15. She is still in a university, managing normal life with her writing career. I hope this interview shows that it is never too early or too late to take your writing seriously.”

Read the questions and answers here. But I’d suggest reading about Anglowaiti writing. It’s culturally diverse and thoughtful, while challenging writers to expand their palate into the writing industry. Nada Faris (the interviewer) is a talented young writer with three novels published.

Press Release by AEC Stellar

Click the link to read more about these upcoming novels (and you can also sign up to get the latest news from all or specific authors sent straight to your email!)

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Stats: 

I wanted to share these, because I think it gives insight to the publishing industry. But I’m also sharing these out of the goodness of my heart. I will not lie and say I am in the top ten, because I am not (although that would be amazing!) I ask to please respect the rankings in the sense that this is information I am not obligated to share but am sharing in the hopes of helping others use this tools for their novels’ spectrum of sales. I specifically wanted to share the ratings through AmazonCentral. For all of you who aren’t familiar with this website, this shows a graph of ups and downs, along with ranking within the genre.

These are the stats Minutes Before Sunset hit during May on Amazon, which has a 4.5 star rating (15 customer reviews.) Ratings are pulled out of 12,500,000 novels (and counting)

  • All Books: 46,268
  • Kindle eBooks: 24,593
  • Literature & Fiction: 12,963
  • Romance: 3,389
  • Fantasy: 1,114

I find these rankings exciting, but I mainly think they can help you all sell your books! For instance, ranks go up on holidays (specifically Mother’s Day and Memorial Day.) They also go up on the days I blog post, so keep your blog going on a regular basis.

My Facebook Pages also help keep track of sales. For instance, I reached over 2,000 people between April 26 and May 2, so I can conclude the release date reaches many. Top cities were in the Midwest, but countries included US, Canada, Kuwait, France, and the United Kingdom. This helps me know my reached audience while also allowing me to realize where I need to improve.

Overall Facebook Shannon A Thompson rankings.

Overall Facebook Shannon A Thompson rankings.

Let me know if you’d like to know more about any topics, and I will surely elaborate in a future post. I will also credit your blog (with extra information on your blog) and, again, my publisher will give out a free copy of Minutes Before Sunset to anyone wishing to review the novel. Simply email me at ShannonAThompson@aol.com for more information, and, again, your blog will be credited on all of my websites including Facebook, Twitter, and here. 

Minutes Before Sunset is available as ebook and paperback on: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords, Kobo, Diesel, Sony, and Apple.

Have a great weekend!

~SAT

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Writing Tips: Character Chart

31 May

Over the past two days, I’ve had the pleasure of receiving two more reviews of Minutes Before Sunset and one interview about the behind-the-scenes of the work. And I’m here to share it with you all before I begin my “Writing Tips” sessions.

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On May 29, Nada Faris, author of Before Young Adult Fiction, Fame in the Adriatic, and ‘Artemis’ and other Moms wrote a five-star review on Goodreads: 

“…This story has twists and turns (even the prophecy changes). It has magical powers, romance, and some funny moments. As a young adult novel, it will satisfy its readers. All in all, the first book in A Timely Death series, was promising. It sets the stage for more conflict. Seconds Before Sunrise, Book 2 of the series, is scheduled for release in fall 2013.”

Read the rest of her review by clicking here.

The five signed copies of Minutes Before Sunset are in the mail for the winners! Congrats!

The five signed copies of Minutes Before Sunset are in the mail for the winners! Congrats!

On May 30, Tina Williams, host of A Reader’s Review, wrote an analysis of my recently released novel while also expanding it with an interview/guest post: (Click the links to read more.) 

Review: “…Minutes Before Sunset is an original and compulsive read. The tale is told in the first person, with chapters told from the perspective of Eric and Jessica. This is effective in terms of both advancing the plot and giving depth to the characters. I particularly enjoyed the maturity and selflessness of the hero and heroine, Eric and Jessica, and found their growing attraction and love for one another both believable and sweet. The novel ends in such a way that I am chomping at the bit to read the next installment. Minutes Before Sunset is a magical, if slightly dark tale, containing romance and adventure, which explores fate and free will and self-sacrifice. I recommend it to readers of both adult and young adult paranormal romance.”

Interview: “As a much younger child, I often suffered from nightmares and night terrors (I honestly couldn’t differentiate between reality and dreams) so my mother had me turn them into stories in order to cope. My latest young-adult paranormal romance, Minutes Before Sunset, is actually a result of the same thing, but it was a different series of dreams. I was in a very dark time in my life, and I had dreams of a boy visiting me at night—just to talk. He’d ask me about how I was feeling, what I was going to do next, and what my hopes were for the future. When I got through that dark time, the dreams were quite literally ripped away from my conscious, and I was distraught. Despite my happiness, I still wanted him as if he was a real person, so I created a story explaining his visits. And Minutes Before Sunset was born.”

Special thanks to both of these talented and lovely ladies. I am proud and grateful to have such great supporters like you all. 

In case anyone is curious, Minutes Before Sunset is available as a paperback on Barnes & Noble and Amazon as a preorder. It will be shipped to you on June 14, 2013. Click the links to be directed to the website. (And don’t forget to let me know if you review it! I will put your blog right here.)

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Now. ::takes deep breath:: The writing tips! 

I’m a big fan of graphs and charts. Seriously. I graph everything. (I’m sure I’ll do more posts on this later–you will not believe the things I can find ways to graph.) But why do I like to graph and chart?

Whether or not I expect it, graphs and charts show something–a pattern or lack thereof–and I think this visual information can help more than a writer (or reader) might originally think. So I came across one the other day called The Character Chart, and I wanted to share it with you all. I would take a screen shot and post it, but the website asks users to “link only” and use only for personal use, and I want to respect that. 

However, I will say that it is a great chart. It’s basically a questionnaire for you to print out and get in-depth with your characters about who they are, what drives them, and who they will become. I particularly like this one because of the detail involved (like self-perception compared to reality.) This is not to say that all of these details are completely necessary to know, but I do say this: this list will challenge you, no matter how well you know a character (especially minor ones), and you might learn something about your character you haven’t expected. I think this list is great for those who are also looking to bring depth to their character (or even to create an entirely new person!)

I’ll definitely be returning to it. Again, I’d share more about it, (I’d even share my answers for Eric or Jessica in Minutes Before Sunset) but I want to respect his copyright properly, so all I can really say is check it out :] And let me know if you’d like to see more interactive websites like this. I’ll be sure to share them as they come.

~SAT

P.S I hope everyone is enjoying the arrival of summer. I sure am! And I wanted to share a piece of my lake fun with everyone: Have a great (and sunny) day!

I'm on a boat...wait...a raft.

I’m on a boat…wait…a raft.

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Publishing News & Signed Paperback Winners!

29 May

Happy Hump Day! I had a really good time celebrating soldiers on Memorial Day, and I hope everyone thanked someone they’re proud of. I know I sure did :] Today’s post is all about the winners of the signed paperbacks of Minutes Before Sunset. Congratulations to these five wonderful writers, readers, and dreamers:

1. she writes love in ink (address received)

2. Amber Skye Forbes (address received)

3. Michelle Proulx (address needed)

My Facebook Page surpassed 300 followers! Thank you!

My Facebook Page surpassed 300 followers! Thank you!

4. Tabatha Cloud (address received)

5. Ky Grabowski (address received)

And, of course, previous winner, L. Marie (address received)

If indicated, please send an address to ShannonAThompson@aol.com

But I have more exciting news!

Minutes Before Sunset’s paperback is available as a preorder on Amazon and Barnes & Noble! I’m excited, because  both companies have indicated that they will ship the novels on June 14, 2013. If you’re interested in preordering the paperback, click the links: Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Amazon.com

Amazon.com

Barnes & Noble

Barnes & Noble

I also want to update the ratings from the three websites with the most reviews:

Amazon: 4.4 Stars

Barnes & Noble: 4.5 Stars

Goodreads: 4.78

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Again, congrats to the winners! On Friday, I’m planning on posting another Writing Tips, but if you have something you’d like to read about, let me know, and I’ll credit your blog. (I’ll always share reviews and such as well.) And don’t forget that you can receive a free ebook if you’d like to do a review (and your blog will be shared on all of my websites!)

Looking forward to future postings!

~SAT

Goodreads Quote of the Day: ““…it’s my job to lead you to success, and if you fail, it’s because I failed, not you.’” (Spoken by Bracke, told by Eric) Minutes Before Sunset, Shannon A. Thompson

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Publishing News: Paperback Contest

25 May

Website Update: You can now pre-order Minutes Before Sunset‘s paperback via Barnes & Noble by clicking here. I’m so excited!  

On May 23, I received the first printed copy of Minutes Before Sunset. 

As I said on my Facebook Author Page, these moments are unforgettable, and I am grateful I got to spend this time with my father.

As I said on my Facebook Author Page, these moments are unforgettable, and I am grateful I shared this moment with my father.

Within the next 3-4 weeks, the book will be appearing for sale, which I will announce as it happens. But I am here to offer more than that! 

I announce events and contests on my Facebook page immediately! Click here to join.

I announce events and contests on my Facebook page immediately! Click here to join.

AEC Stellar Publishing is giving away five SIGNED copies of Minutes Before Sunset. You can enter the contest by commenting below. If you’ve already read and reviewed this novel, post your name with the link, and your name will be entered twice as a special thank you for the extra support!

Speaking of reviews: I want to thank two wonderful ladies for their insightful reviews.

Thank you to Ky Grabowski (Welcome to the Inner Workings of My Mind) 

5 Stars: May Contain Spoilers

“…Shannon’s ability to reveal answers that many authors often leave till the end is a great strength. I think it was also a risk that paid off. We know so much about the characters, the history, and the future before we’re even half way in. Shannon touches on everything readers want and gives the illusion that the knowledge we’ve given is all we need. It’s far from that though – there’s a rich, capturing story following and don’t for one second assume you have all the answers…”

Read the rest here. 

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Thank you to Sarah Ray (She has three blogs: click her name, Ray of Light, or Heart of Flight) Her novel, Sorcerer’s Vendetta, can be found by clicking the link. 

5 Stars: Shade is good

“…It’s a very engaging read, enjoyable for me even though it’s geared for the YA audience and I’m hardly that. Eric (Shoman) and Jessica are believable characters, easy to empathize with, and the other characters are interesting and colorful also…”

Read the rest here via Amazon.

Both of these ladies are extremely talented writers, and I definitely recommend checking them out at their blogs and/or other websites. I really appreciate their guided honesty and tremendous support.

If you want to do a review, you can receive a free ebook from my publisher. Just email ShannonAThompson@aol.com expressing interest.

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I’m very excited to see who wins the free paperbacks, joining L. Marie, who is being upgraded to a free signed copy as well. She took place in a previous competition, and she’ll be receiving her paperback along with five others as soon as they arrive in the mail (perhaps even sooner than when the paperback will be available for purchasing!)

I’m looking forward to the future! The second book in A Timely Death trilogy, Seconds Before Sunrise, is already in the editing process, and it’s expected to be available this Fall. So I’ll be working hard to upgrade this website in the near future to support more book pages and extras.

Goodreads Quote of the Day: “His resonating stare fluttered through my memory, and I shivered. I hadn’t seen kindness in his pupils. I only saw intensity, and I hated to admit it, but he was beyond intimidating. He was overwhelming.” (Jessica, Minutes Before Sunset.)

~SAT

P.S. Have a great weekend everyone!

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Writing Tips: Setting: Picking a Location

23 May

Before I begin today’s post topic, I have two things to address: 

First: Special thanks to Nicole Lee at ”Ennlee’s Reading Corner” for reviewing Minutes Before Sunset:  “…The book alternates between the point of view of each of the main characters without a set pattern, and Ms. Thompson should be commended for her ability to create two characters that are similar enough to keep these sections from being disjointed, but different enough that the reader can tell in an instant who is speaking…”

Click here to read the rest.

As of now, Minutes Before Sunset is rated 4.5 stars on Amazon, 4 stars on Barnes & Noble, and 4.7 stars on Goodreads. Thank you to everyone who has read and reviewed! An author always appreciates the dedicated and honest support. 

This picture means a lot to me. These are two great friends of mine that I met at the University of Kansas, William and Brooke Jones, and you might notice what William is holding: my first novel, November Snow. Support (and friendship) like this is priceless.

This picture means a lot to me. These are two great friends of mine that I met at the University of Kansas, William and Brooke Jones, and you might notice what William is holding: my first novel, November Snow. Support (and friendship) like this is priceless.

Second: As many of you know, I held another contest where the winners receive a free account at Happify, a website dedicated to bringing happiness to social media within a great community of encouraging peers. The winners are:

whiteravensoars: Random Acts of Writing (invitation sent)

Ky Grabowski: Welcome to the inner workings of my mind (invitation sent)

willowysp: Freefall (I need an email)

Nicole Lee: Ennlee’s Reading Corner (invitation sent)

Amber Skye Forbes: Writing Words with the Tips of my Toes (invitation sent)

Based on status, you’ll receive a confirmation. (If you don’t fell comfortable sharing your email on my comments, please send an email to ShannonAThompson@aol.com identifying yourself, so I can send the invite) Follow me here, so I can find you, and I’ll  be sure to follow back!

Now, onto today’s post:

I wanted to discuss “setting” in a novel, but I specifically wanted to share websites where you can find more information on your place (or perhaps browse the world for inspiration, even if your setting is in another world entirely.)

I think your background is a great place to start. Everyone has heard “write what you know,” and there is truth in it. Placing your novel in a place your extremely familiar with is the easiest route (not necessarily the right route), and this can make descriptions easier. For instance, Minutes Before Sunset takes place in Hayworth, Kansas. This is not a real town. It’s actually a play on Hays and Ellsworth, both towns in Kansas. I haven’t lived in these locations, but I have been to them, and I currently live in Kansas, so I am very familiar with the culture, layout, and how the weather works. Plus, I wanted an ironic name. Since the novel is about a dark fate, it only seemed appropriate (and humorous) to have a name that suggested the town was worthy.

In regards to familiarity, another thing to think about is your basic settings. By this, I am referencing your rooms. I’ve discussed interior maps before, and every house in Minutes Before Sunset is based off of a real house I’ve lived in (aside from Eric’s. That’s my dream home.) And the maps are available on the Minutes Before Sunset extra’s page.

Back to location:

If you’re looking for a place you’re not entirely familiar with, I wanted to give a great website out there for beginning, especially if you’re not positive on what you’re looking for.

Earth Album Alpha: This is a slick flicker collection of photos, virtually capable in regards to clicking anywhere on the map just to see an arrangement of pictures from the specific country. This can be very broad, but it can also help narrow down what you’re looking for. As an example, the picture below is of Serbia. (I clicked randomly.) You’ll see a collection of tiny pictures at the top, which you can enlarge, that will show the region. In particular, this country has a lot of beautiful fields, so you may not be interested in Serbia, but you might realize you want an open space, and you can go from there.

Earth Album Alpha

Earth Album Alpha

Do you like these tips? Join my Facebook page for more!

Do you like these tips? Join my Facebook page for more!

Weather Base: This website helps summarize what happens in regards to weather in the average year based on the location you choose. This is actually a traveling website, meant for tourists to figure out ideal weather to travel in, but you can learn whatever you want all over the world. I really recommend checking these things, because fallacies can happen in location, if you’re not familiar with how citizens live beneath the weather clouds. A good example of this is the famous young-adult novel, Twilight. Although Meyer set it in a rain-prone state, the amount of rain she used was very unrealistic to the location. In an interview, she even admitted that she visited for weeks without rain and was quite disappointed with her lack of research. However, she was delighted to bring tourism to the city that wasn’t known before. So there are pros and cons to everything.

American Culture: If you want to stay in the states, this blog is full of information about history, culture, language, education, and more. It even includes family arrangements, death rituals, and relationships to other countries where these things may have taken place originally. This won’t only help your setting; it can help your characters round out as they’ll have a family background stabilized within reality. For instance, it may remind you of the variation in language used across certain areas. An exact quote: “Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Tagalog due to immigration from the countries where those languages are spoken, and to a certain extent French, primarily in far north New England, due to the Acadian-Canadian influence, and in Louisiana (Cajun).”

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My hopes is that sites like this will help the initial process of choosing a location you (as much as your readers) feel connected to as much as your characters will be grounded in it. 

If you have any other sites, comment below! And, as usual, if you have a topic you want to hear about, let me know, and I’ll credit your blog for asking the question on that post.

I hope everyone is having a great time! (Paperback news is coming soon!)

Goodreads Quote of the day: “I was falling in love with her, and she was falling in love with me. It was fated, decided before any of us were born, and I hated it as much as I loved it. I could barely stand it.” (Eric, Minutes Before Sunset)

~SAT

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