The Cover - Williamsburg Hill

I had plans for a Halloween blog post this month, and it still might happen since there are a few days left before the ghosts and goblins raid our candy bins. But since it's just finalized, I thought I'd first share the official front cover of my book Williamsburg Hill, tweaked just a little from the previous proof.  If there are no hiccups (and when don't those pesky nuisances catch you unexpectedly?), by this time next week both the paperback and ebook will be published.  Thanks for reading.  Hopefully that seasonal dedication to things that go boo in the dark will be written...just don't hold me to it.

A Little Promoting...Again

It's time to take up some blogging space to promote. It has never been easy for me to dance that self-promoting waltz, but it's necessary to get the word out about the work: published books, updates, new photographs, sales and such.

I wish I could comfortably emulate some folks on Facebook who have no qualms about pitching themselves, but I can't and don't. Nearly every day, I receive a request from someone asking if I'd like his/her personal page. If I've forgotten I was even Facebook friends with you, I'll pass. I can't even bring myself to create personal pages for myself. Facebook has automatically generated four pages for me: an author page, and one for each of my books: Daniel's Esperanza, Funny Pages and Billy's First Dance.  I haven't done a thing with any of them. Imagine if I'd bombard all of my pals on Facebook with requests to like each of them.  You'd hear crickets chirping for miles! If only we could realize by helping someone, we might get a little help in return. So I've embraced a new rule with respect to those personal pages: I'll be happy to like a page, give it a shout-out, etc, if it's reciprocated. Buy one of my books, share it on Facebook and I'll like your page and share. Pretty simple, and if it's viewed as "you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours", so be it. But, I digress. So here we go.

Fine Art America has changed its web address regarding personal pages for members. My address is now www.veronica-batterson.pixels.com and I have some new images up since the last time I shared here. Many different types of products are sold in addition to prints and posters: pillows, cell phone covers, t-shirts, duvets, tote bags and shower curtains. Check it out and please let me know if you make a purchase.

Books. All three are still available via several online retail sites, but I guess I would recommend Amazon over any of the other places. Simply put: it's the easiest, best shipping deals and most people already have accounts there. However, if anyone would like a signed book from me, let me know. I have copies, too, that I can sell. Daniel's Esperanza, Billy's First Dance and Funny Pages. Paperback and ebooks are available, and please share with me if you buy one. Feedback is appreciated, too.

Many thanks, as always. I continue to work on the latest, Williamsburg Hill, and will update here periodically with the occasional side-track of short stories, essays and thoughts.

Now for Kindle Users and in Paperback

My book, Daniel's Esperanza, is now available for Kindle users on Amazon for only $6.99. Of course, if you prefer the paperback version, it's for sale, too. I always appreciate those who take the time to make a purchase and actually read my work.  Icing on the cake includes feedback and reviews. 

Independent authors have to hustle and work very hard to get anyone to notice their work. If you enjoy one of their books, please be kind and take the time to tell them so. Better yet, leave a positive review on Amazon, Goodreads or anywhere else you find the book promoted and sold. These things help sales and give much needed attention to some deserving individuals.

Thanks, again. The link to my book on Amazon is Daniel's Esperanza. Also, my Goodreads Giveaway goes until September 15. If you're a Goodreads member, you know how to sign up for their giveaways. Autographed copies are up for grabs there.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Finally...There is a Cover

I've been waiting a long time for this.  There is a beautiful cover to share of my third book.  Daniel's Esperanza is literary fiction written for the adult reader...I specify this because my two previous books were middle grade/young adult works.  I'm told that the book will be available very soon (within days) for purchase in paperback and for Kindle, and I'll provide an excerpt shortly.  Sharing the cover for now.

Daniel's Esperanza

I thought I'd give an update regarding the status of my latest novel, Daniel's Esperanza.  It is complete but I'm researching new publishing options, which takes time.  The manuscript is out and being reviewed by several sources and I hope to have some news soon.  However, if I do go with a new publisher, it could still take awhile before the book is published.  I'm impatient but there isn't much I can do at this point.

Since I've revealed the title in this post, I would like to say Daniel's Esperanza is written for the adult reader.  I've strayed from my previous books, which were middle grade fiction, and tried something new.  I'm very proud of the final product, which I wrote with a sequel in mind.  I'm now outlining the continuing story and can't wait to begin writing.

Being rather superstitious, I'm not comfortable revealing the plot before publication even though the copyright is secured.  I have mentioned research for the book took me to New Mexico and a wild horse sanctuary, but that's all I will divulge now.  Hopefully, waiting will make the story that much more enjoyable.

Thanks to all who take the time to read my blog posts.  It is appreciated.  I do hope publication isn't delayed too much longer.

Joining the World of Ebooks

The title of this post might be misleading. I personally haven't purchased a Kindle or Nook...yet. But my second book, Funny Pages, is now available as an electronic download. So, in that respect I have joined the electronic age.

For only $3.96, readers can download the story as an ebook on Amazon and BarnesandNoble.  I'm told  it will eventually be available to ipad users as well through Apple.  So, Kindle users, here is the link: Funny Pages - Kindle Edition - Amazon and for Nook owners: Funny Pages - Nook - BarnesandNoble. Or, you can just check out the links to the right. If you don't like clicking on links (I don't either), then search Amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com for my books. You'll find them...I promise. Also, if you enjoy the book, please leave a review. Authors always appreciate them.

Billy's First Dance isn't available as an ebook...but why not just enjoy an old fashioned paperback? That's what we all used "back in the day", along with manual typewriters, rotary telephones and snail mail. Modern technology is wonderful, but I still love holding a book while I read it.

I might be convinced, however, that it wouldn't be too bad to own one of those e-readers...someday.