TLMcCallan: I've had readers and readers and readers, but none give me what my story needs like FanStory does. Honest, objective and AWESOME!


TLMcCallan: Hey all, I've started the third in THE ELEMENTALS series. The Twelfth House and The Eighth House are doing well. I'm going to be sharing the first few chapters of The Ninth House (Sagittarius) on FS. Hope you'll take a look and tell me what you think. It's still a paranormal romance, but a little deeper, I think. I hope you enjoy and I welcome your thoughts.

Much Love,

TL McCallan


TLMcCallan: I'm baaaack!


TLMcCallan: For those aspiring to become published authors, please join Author Neale Orinick, (The Gifted Book One) and me (The Eighth House) at our workshop: Becoming an Author ~ The Journey to Publication. This workshop will be conducted both live and via WEBINAR and includes everything you need to know in order to begin your journey on the path to publication. Check out my author bio where you can see my website in order to find more information. (Apparently, I've broken the rules) But feel free to dance.
    dbmccarter: Just checked out your workshop. Sounds interesting. -
    dbmccarter: Just checked out your workshop. Sounds interesting. And I am dancing. -
    nor84: It's against site rules to post website addresses. Wouldn't want you to get into trouble. -
    TLMcCallan: Thanks nor84. Did not know that. Appreciate the info.
    -
    TLMcCallan: Dance, dance, dance DBC. But keep your hat on. The rest is optional. :)
    -
    TLMcCallan: And DBC, it is a great workshop. I've sat for over an hour afterwards answering questions from participants. It's a good experience and I'm happy to pay it forward. That is, afterall, how I've gotten to where I am. Education is the key to success. -


TLMcCallan: Holy shit, I love this site. :)


TLMcCallan: I am so laughing at your responses to my crazy rant. Do you have ANY idea HOW much y'all ROCK?

The penis thing...I don't have one, but I know this: I have balls.
    --Turtle.:

    Good thing I like both...

    Rocking and rants, that is. -
    --Turtle.:
    :D

    Yeah, I kind of like when they talk back. -
    Lady & Louis: Talk back? Aieeeeeee!

    I've heard of sock puppets but this is ridiculous ... -


TLMcCallan: In a much better mood today. Sorry for the rant. :) Hope to read some really good stuff over the course of the next few weeks!
    LadyCosgrove: Just read your rant and it sounds pretty justified to me. I wouldn't apologise. :o) -
    --Turtle.: I missed the rant, though I'm betting it was well-written. ;) -
    Lady & Louis: Was that the glorious 'talking to his penis' rant? (You didn't miss that one, Turtle, you were there!) -
    sasil: I actually enjoyed that rant immensely (pun intended, of course). Glad you're back, looking forward to reading ya soon. How's promot on 8th House? WIP's? Good luck! -
    TLMcCallan: Ah, my RANTS. I GOTTA stop hittin' the DECAF! -
    TLMcCallan: Thank you guys for supporting my POV. I welcome those who don't, of course, but I was SO high on this little, itty-bitty horse, that I couldn't resist. Love you all, and thank you very much.
    -
    TLMcCallan: @ Sasil: it just got picked up by a hot little mid-market publisher. (Solstice Publishing.) More to come. Exciting days. THE TWELFTH HOUSE will be on fanstory within a few weeks. WAHOO! -
    TLMcCallan: @ Turtle - I was just ranting and somehow, as a penis does, it just sorta rose outta the depths. Don't judge. It's my method. :D
    -


TLMcCallan: I am beginning to think, that within the year I've been away, that "reviewing" has taken on a bit of a different meaning since I was last active here. I happen to know my work isn't perfect, yet, I'm receiving no "real" feedback. Outside of my loyal FS friends who never shy from the opportunity to offer a good critique, it appears my work is technically perfect. Suh-WEET! (not)

BTW: I'm on my little high horse for this reason:

Offering a "critique" about the disappointment associated with the lack of dialogue in a chapter that features only 1 character, isn't helpful. At all. WTF do you want him to do? Talk to the wall, the sink, his penis? Have we strayed so far from the instant gratifcation that is dialogue that we forget about world building, and mystery, and sometimes, a simple, WhereTF is he/she going with this?

::sigh:: I feel the need to apologize in order to avoid offending, but I can't seem to find the desire to apologize for a legitimate rant. ;)

P.S. Thanks to my WONDERFUL FS friends who give me a legitimate literary, what-for when I need it. I treasure your thoughts and insight and I know you do it for more than just the member cents or the points. We're here for the real reason: To make our work good enough to be published, or at least, just seen by eyes other than our own so we know we have a family of people that are like us.

I'm off my soap box now. Thanks for listening.
    Celtic~Soul: Can appreciate your rant, TL. Also just wanted to say thanks for the 'talk to his penis' remark. I needed a chuckle. -
    purrfect tale: I will be fanning you. Just as soon as I sharpen my blue pencil. Seriously, I have the same problem. I've got a small group that give me constructive reviews. (And occasional kicks in the rear). I love them for it. -
    --Turtle.: I like it when characters talk to their penises. -
    Lady & Louis: ::clap clap clap:: Agreed! Especially about the zoobs who can't cope with narrative. I bet they want expository dialogue, too (even if they probably don't know what the term means). -
    --Turtle.: :D

    Just say no to expository dialog.

    -
    sasil: *mad laughter*
    Perhaps the penis is a sentient being and capable of intelligent discourse.
    Did I just say "intelligent" and "penis" in the same sentence?
    Well, the world DOES love a good mind-boggler... -
    sasil: *rolling on the ground in giggle-fits* -
    Lady & Louis: As a famous* writer said, expository dialogue sucks.

    *Depending on your definition of famous, of course. -
    sasil: !
    STOP it, Lady&Louis---*giggle, giggle, snort*
    Ha! -
    Border Reiver: Actually, having a dialogue in a chapter with only one character might be interesting. Surely I'm not the only one who talks to herself around her. I actually had a very good conversation with a squirrel this afternoon. Although I think he/she may have been using me for my nuts. -
    Lady & Louis: Kat, just make sure the squirrel hadnt' been eating green walnuts. They go a bit loopy (or loopier) when they eat those ... you wouldn't get a decent conversation from 'em. -
    TLMcCallan: Oh, hell, you guys, you crack me the fuck up. I thought after my rant I'd piss off a bunch of people. Clearly that was not the case. Thanks so much for your HILARIOUS responses. I cried and laughed at the same time. I might have even snorted.

    At my penis. -
    TLMcCallan: Just say no to expository dialogue. I LOVE it, Turtle. I don't say no to much, but damn if you ain't right on that.
    -
    TLMcCallan: @Celtic Soul - Many good conversations come from talking with a penis. I know. I've been there. ;) -
    TLMcCallan: @Purr - We find that little niche, don't we? How wonderful is that? It made me smile to log back on after I'd cooled to see that my FS advocates had my literary back. That. Just. Rocks. -
    TLMcCallan: @Lady & Louis THANK YOU!!!!Expository dialogue does suck. But, in order to help my friends who don't know what that means: Info-dumping via your characters' speaking with one another is no bueno. A reader will see through it. Aaaaand the reviewers on FS will happily help you with that! -
    TLMcCallan: And Border Reiver, you make a very good point. I think there are definitely stories where a character talking with oneself is ideal. This guy isn't "that guy", if that makes sense? He's quiet and methodical and very dark. Nothing really going on except his play-by.

    But you make a good point. Should I have another one character chapter, I'll certainly look to see if single dialogue will add a little "spice" to the chapter.

    Thank you for you insight.

    -


TLMcCallan: I know it's been a long time since I came around, been a long time, but I'm back in town and this time I'm just wonderin' WTF is with the, "Copy and Paste my Link" into your browser when I go to review a story?

Is this new?

T
    TLMcCallan: Right?! (Sorry, I ripped off the beginning words to a Lady Gaga song).

    Anyway...

    I clicked on a story that sounded interesting. The "story" had a redirect link. Before my now, HORRIBLLY rusty cop instincts finally kicked in, I "skipped" it.

    Anyone else experiencing anything similar?

    Thanks,
    T -
    TLMcCallan: I'll take that as a no. I just thought it weird that FS would allow someone to submit a story which had only a redirect link which would lead to another site. I didn't click on it, but other's might. Don't know if it's a malicious link or not.

    JUST FYI. --T -
    another jim: At best it's a fluke, at worst, malicious. Either way, my cybergeek friends always warn me to NEVER click on a link unless I know for sure where it's taking me. Good advice, that. Maybe Tom would like to know about it, too?

    And maybe you can tell us all which story redirected you? I was thinking we could gather up our torches and pitchforks and pay the author a visit... -
    TLMcCallan: A--

    Yeah, you'd think I'd've been smart enough to remember the story. I'll go through them again to see what flags for me. If I find it again, I'll certainly sound the alarm and gather my rake. --T -


TLMcCallan: It is so good to get back to creative writing. As a freelance writer/author, I find I'm spending more time on the work aspect of writing and not the fun aspect...like making stuff up!


TLMcCallan: Well, hi everyone! I know it's been a while since I've checked in, but I want you all to know I still think about you quite a lot. I'll have to get busy and post some stuff here soon!

How is everyone? Would LOVE to hear some updates!

Tamara
    dbmccarter: Hope you will post. I enjoyed your work. -
    sasil: Hiya! I'm not a premiere member (right now), but still peeking in to review here and there. Post soon and PM me, so I get first-crack at your new stuff. How's promo on 8th House? Making headway on 5th House? Still think that sounds like a cool trashy bar out in the middle of a bayou. Mmmm...maybe some sexy lycans and a coven or two...OO! -
    TLMcCallan: T, s, and d, GREAT to see you all are still kickin'. I will be posting some new stuff soon. It's a paranormal thriller entitled, The Fetch. I'm really looking forward to writing it.

    Because I suck as a fanstory friend, I haven't been on the site in a while. (OBVIOUSLY) How are you all doing in your writing? Anything new? T-still writing your epic novel? :)

    Let me know, guys, I look forward to becoming reaquainted soon.

    Tamara -
    dbmccarter: So glad you are coming back. I have missed your work. Lost any more dogs? -
    TLMcCallan: D-

    Nope, the electric fence cured that. Though, I did have to put my Vizsla, Dixie down in November. Heartbreaking that was. But this year is going to be a great year. I'm working on another book and hope to have some stuff posted soon.

    How is your writing going?

    T -
    dbmccarter: Pretty good. I think I need to get serious. It is fun just to do what comes into your mind. You have published. How do you get to that point. -


TLMcCallan: In the meantime, I'm keeping it honest. Sales are slow, but I can attribute that to all my friends and family finally runnning out. Those purchasing the book now, will be legit and via word of mouth. I'm cool with that. It is reality.

Time to market:

I have a lovely (free) presentation I will shop to my local libraries. I've entitled it" Becoming an Author (hard carrier return) The Journey. I public speak by profession so I think my journey might help others.

Would anyone be interested in sharing a writing related anecdote or two? If you are intersted, please provide information so I can credit your thoughts. (and plug your writing)

Send to:tlmccallanauthor@gmail.com)

If you have a website, EVEN BETTER. I'd love to profile it with your permission.
Thank you guys for all your help. You have no idea how much I appreciate it.

You have my email. Remember, we're a team. I can't wait to pay it forward.

Tamara

NO. Idea.

    sasil: You're way ahead of me in the game--I'm still sharpening my pencils here, though I have had a few shorts accepted for publication in the August issue of Fictitious Magazine (non-paying ezine, but it's a start). Currently working three plots/casts of characters and breaking into poetry as a means of narrowing my focus. Ever try outlining your plot in poetic form? Brutal, but effective way of paring down to the nitty gritty and staying on track!
    So excited for you and wishing you well in your marketing--I hear self-promo's a b-, eh, "big" endeavor. Looking forward to updates on your progress and tactics.
    S. -
    TLMcCallan: Sasil, the, "poetic narrowing" is something I use! It's a more business related model but the final objective is the same.

    In the homestretch. :) -
    sasil: "You can DO it!"
    (Ok, I've seen way too many Adam Sandler movies). -


TLMcCallan: Still here. How are you?
    another jim: Still here, schizophrenia and all. And yes, I'm fine. And so am I... -
    shelley kaye: still here and all my little friends too.... -
    TLMcCallan: Wait? Didn't you have a little dog, too?
    -
    TLMcCallan: Or was that me? Maybe I had a little dog. And some slippers. And WTF is up with that house? Whoa, are those FEET sticking out from under it? Holy shit, I'm outta here. -
    sasil: Hey! Gimme back my shoes!
    (my broom is busted) -


TLMcCallan: Hey, my FanStory friends. Thanks to the major contribution of a few select people on FanStory, my novel The Eighth House is now available on Kindle.

BIG BREATH.

I'm terrified.

Thanks to: T, to S, to C, to D,. My book is what it is because of your polishing cloth. Love you guys. Though I've never met you. Do you think we can meet some day? Soon?


    sasil: Way to go! Now I can go finish reading about Nash (drool....) Is it listed under TLMcCallan? I'm so psyched for you!
    *dancing to the Low Rider Song for you in happiness* -
    sasil: Hey-new pic--this the author photo for the back cover of your new release? You look so happy, and you SHOULD be! -
    dbmccarter: congratulations. You give me hope. Did I miss some of the chapters. -
    TLMcCallan: Hey, all. Thanks for the support. It is greatly appreciated. The book can be found under Kindle then The Eighth House.

    And yes, Sasil, that is my author photo! And yes, I AM happy. And I too, am groovin' to Low, ri-dah. ;)

    D- I don't think so. I removed all but one from the site. -
    TLMcCallan: Oh, and by the way, if you all purchase the book, may I ask that you also take a little extra time and write a review? It will help my sales. Thank you so much. --Tamara -
    sasil: I checked and you have 2 five-star reviews so far. Keep up the momentum and shout when The Fifth House comes out (lol, almost sounds like the name of a cool bar). -
    TLMcCallan: Hey, all. I just read my last post. While I could delete it, I won't. My enthusiasm overrode my soul. How rude to ask for a review? Please accept my apology. Write a review if you feel compelled to do so. Tell me to pound sand if you feel compelled to do so as well.;)

    -
    TLMcCallan: sasil- You and me. GREAT name for a bar. Thanks for supporting me, even through my gross "etiquette" snafus.
    -
    TLMcCallan: For those interested. The book recieved its 3rd 5-star review tonight.

    I don't even knpow that to say.

    I'm reading the words and they're all honest. With exception of one, I don't sense smoke-blowing up my ass.
    -
    --Turtle.: I need to catch up with my stuff... :/ I could have swore I left a review for that story. Way to go on letting the bird to sky. -
    sasil: ROTFL---Pretty sure you'd sense that, TLM. *giggle* Congrats on the reviews and best wishes for future sales. Maybe I could do an email interview for my writing school's newsletter--promo for both of us! I don't have Kindle (low-tech dweeb, I know), but need to figure a way to finish reading first so I can speak knowledgeably (I'll use spell-check--I promise). Best to the best--S. -


TLMcCallan: Just checking in. Everyone still alive and well?

    another jim: Hang on...

    **searches for pulse and fails to find one**

    Just as I suspected: I'm dead. So to answer your question, no. -