1. What motivated you to write your book, to force you from taking an idea or experience and turning it into a book? One word: Legacy. Sure, I could provide a long list of my influences, mentors, and even include my own love of good storytelling. It would all be true, and also likely to be somewhat forgettable to anyone reading this. I’m not into fame or recognition, or money for that fact. What is universal, and the true motivation for my writing is a force that none of us will ever beat. Time. I looked at the calendar of my life and noticed that summer was fading fast. If I was going to share knowledge or any of the wisdom that I’ve accumulated in this life then the moment was now. A timeless story in the form of a book creates a legacy that spans the generations well beyond our short years on this planet.
2.
What is it about and who is it for? It would be easier to list who it isn’t for. It isn’t suitable for
children, or those with no interest in science fiction or realistic erotica. If
one is meek, prudish, or thinks the world owes them something at no cost, then
they might not make it past the first chapter. On second thought, perhaps it
might serve as a wake-up call for those who press forward to the end? Virtual
Mirrors will most certainly align with those who enjoy a classic adventure,
science fiction, intrigue, action, humor, and sophisticated erotica, all packed
into one story. Refined and mature
readers will form a welcome bond by joining the heroine on her quest. Her name
is Gemma Sullivan, and she is searching an authoritarian future worldscape for
the one thing she doesn’t have—an enlightened male companion pressed in the
rugged alpha mold of years gone by. Does he even exist any more? Along the way she discovers freedom is something
she can’t do without, and transforms her life to pursue and preserve it. She
discovers feelings that she never thought she would ever be able to express,
and an expanded consciousness that broadens her awareness of the universe
around her. I would have to say, the story is for you!
3.
What do you hope the reader will be left with after reading it? I want them to be left with an empty box of
Kleenex. A blend of sadness that this particular journey is over, but most
importantly the satisfaction in the way it concludes. In the end, I want them
to share the mixture of emotions as the lead character experiences both
unexpected joy that is tempered by her losses, profound sorrow, and a feeling
of uncertainty regarding her future. I hope the reader grows and transforms
like Gemma, understanding love is more than mere lust, and freedom is more than
a personal joyride. There is a delicate balance on the tightrope between the
towers of liberty and oppression. The reader will be reminded that nothing
worth having ever comes easy, but to always look for the silver linings, no
matter how desperate things may appear. Never quit, and never give up hope, as
there is always another chapter. Closing the last page on one story is the
opening page of another.
4.
What advice or words of wisdom do you have for fellow writers? If you're writing now, then keep it up.
You’re among the smallest group of humanity that attempts such a daunting
endeavor. If you haven’t started yet, then start today! Humans all love a good
story, dating back to the time our ancestors told them around the fire 10,000
years ago. Let’s go! Take criticism constructively. Write the stuff you would
have enjoyed reading yourself. If you do that, you’ll at least have one
satisfied customer! Create your legacy!
5.
What trends in the book world do you see -- and where do you
think the book publishing industry is heading? Just as classic storytelling is timeless, I love holding a genuine,
old-fashioned paper and ink printed book in my hands. It’s both a tactile
treat, and aromatic pleasure to smell the paper that my eyes are absorbing the
words from. Luckily, there are enough of those around to keep me busy for the
rest of my lifetime. Unfortunately, the expense and resources needed for
traditional books isn’t infinite. Electronic books may be the future, and even
audio books seem to be popular with many of my friends. The advantage of
electronic books is obvious in that it enables self-publishing at very little
cost. Traditional publishing companies have plenty of material to screen
(literally) before selecting the best of those e-books to print, and perhaps
keep their business alive.
6.
What challenges did you overcome to write this book? Deadlines. It’s a love/hate relationship.
The pressure forces one to get things moving, which is good. Conversely, it
seeds a growing anxiety as the date marches closer. Will I be done in time? Who
wants their creativity forced into an arbitrary box? The five installments that
comprise Virtual Mirrors were written over a span of two years, complicated by
my traveling all over the globe. Thank goodness for iPad keyboards making handy
writing tools at 35,000 feet over the Pacific, or from the desks of countless
hotel rooms. Technology solved the physical challenges allowing all the dreaded
deadlines to be met.
7.
If people can buy or read one book this week or month, why should
it be yours? Well, if you are asking the
following questions - Who are you? Who do you think you are? This is a
recurring theme of Virtual Mirrors, and If there is any question, then it
should be your first “next book”. Consider it a self-evaluation to discover
what type of person you are and the test is already well overdue! How
comfortable are you with human sexuality? Do you believe in life, liberty, and
the pursuit of happiness? Perhaps you reside at the other end of the spectrum
and possess a desire to control, dominate, and manipulate those around you. If
you already know who you are, you’ll still enjoy watching Gemma find out who
she really is. Love it or hate it, you will find yourself quickly turning pages
to find out what happens to her next. It’s okay if you dislike the heroine, as
she would forgive you. We have done our best, and respect your freedom of
choice. Fortunately, I believe most reader’s test results will show love for
Gemma Sullivan and what she stands for. We love you back!
About The Author:
Crystal Raven is an archetypical seeker of sovereignty in all forms and facets whose desire is to ignite and spread the flames of passion and freedom amongst humanity. Walking the self-determined path of the hero's journey, Crystal is committed to personal and planetary evolution. For more info, please see www.Crystalraven.com.
The
Etiquette Show, a cable access television show that airs on MNN in New York
City, just featured me for nearly 14 minutes. Would you like to see me in my
man cave interviewed by a woman in her attic, dishing on what I love about
marketing authors since 1989? Check out the clip below – skip the ads and start
at 24:30 on the time counter.
Interview
on MNN, a NYC Cable TV Station
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5kXwbYeKD8
Contact Brian For Marketing Help!!
Brian Feinblum, the founder of this
award-winning blog, can be reached at brianfeinblum@gmail.com He is available to
help authors promote their story, sell their book, and grow their brand.
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About Brian Feinblum
Brian Feinblum should be followed on Twitter @theprexpert. This
is copyrighted by BookMarketingBuzzBlog ©2021. Born and raised in Brooklyn, he
now resides in Westchester with his wife, two kids, and Ferris, a black lab
rescue dog. His writings are often featured in The Writer and
IBPA’s The Independent. This was named one of the best book
marketing blogs by BookBaby http://blog.bookbaby.com/2013/09/the-best-book-marketing-blogs and recognized by Feedspot in 2018
as one of the top book marketing blogs. It was also named by WinningWriters.com
as a "best resource.” He recently hosted a panel on book publicity
for Book Expo America. For more information, please consult: linkedin.com/in/brianfeinblum.
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