VBT - All Systems Go for Monday and Wednesday!

   Hi guys,

   My Virtual Book Tour kicks off on Monday (well owing to the time difference I'll be on Tuesday).  Up first, my introduction at the Virtual Book Tour Cafe Blog, then at So Much To Write, So Little Time.

April 22 - Introduction at VBT Cafe' Blog

April 24 - Guest Blogging at So Much To Write, So Little Time

   Don't forget the your chance to win one of five review copies of The Torment, The Shadow, The Heart.

   My thanks to BK Walker for setting all this up.  Hope to catch you there!

   In other news, I've made my next update to the History of Talbadas.  I know it's been a long time coming, but I'm getting back on track with this and Volume 2 of The Hero of Talbadas.  Check out the update at http://historyoftalbadas.blogspot.com.au.

   Cheers,

   T. M. Shannon

Well, what I fool I've been...

I tried to be kind, and constructive. All I've had in response is snide blog posts and whining comments. I have no desire to work with someone like this, and I wash my hands of this title.

I deeply regret the time and attention spent reviewing it.

The Indie Fantastic

   Hi guys,

   Well, I messed up good and proper, which isn't the way to go with reviews.  Not only did I forget not to take comments personally, but also my Milton: "He that studieth revenge keepeth his own wounds green, which otherwise would heal and do well."  That festering rot cost me a the review, I managed to put my foot in my mouth, wasted someone's time (freely given, too).

  I'm not going to explain the background behind my over-defensiveness.  So I'm a first timer, not used to it, not much of an excuse.  I still stand by my book, and will defend it as necessary... just not with misplaced attitude as I did.  Like everybody who stuffs up when they mean well, it will become a point for me to improve in future; for now, I feel like a p****, and its my own fault for it.

   The reviewer told me, before offering a new review service, was their intention to write a book.  I certainly applaud this, and wish all the best; but having published myself, the book is a part of the person.  There's passion in the art, which goes further than imaginable - the story is a part of the author.  At least, I hear it's easier to deal with the pain of a rough review (or its portions) the second time around.

   For now, I apologise for my responses and posting.  Clearly I was ill-equipped to deal with the one part of the criticism that saw me lose my cool.  Hopefully the reviewer can take light in the fact the bulk of the review has seen me adjust the review copy to lighten the watermark I employed to the hilt, minimise my italics (but not remove them altogether), and see to the proofing errors (which are an ongoing project).  Next step will be an editor to see to my content, and bring the narrative up to speed, so again.

   Somehow, I don't feel the thanks is welcomed, and the apology brushed aside.  So be it, it's not my place to force the outcome.  I can only begin to beg for forgiveness.

   As for the question of fandom, you should never give up what you enjoy or what you love; its like religion.  But as a fan, one shouldn't forget the merits of opposing fan-bases, or people who don't agree with your fandom.  Me getting snarky about it isn't going to help matters, but for me its not the end of the world.  Yet if I don't learn from this, there'll be trouble in the waters ahead.

   So for all you newbies, don't be surprised if your bad review really gets your goat.  Just don't lose sleep over it, and try not to reply up front like I did.  If in doubt, just don't reply to it.  Now if only I could have viewed my destiny as hindsight; sorry, no sword and fire dreams for me.

   A little sombre today, I know; and if the apology isn't accepted I certainly understand.

   T. M. Shannon

Next Post Preview...

   I went and messed up big time, taking a comment in a review too personally when I should have let it slide.  Well, the review has been pulled, and I feel like a right little so-and-so for getting petty.  A lesson learned in my next post, due on Wednesday.

Page Added / Updated

   Hi guys,

   I have added a "Work Update" page to keep you updated with my progress through my writing (excluding the History of Talbadas).

   This will feature proofing updates of TSH, as they are made to correct the second edition.

   If you happen to find a proofing error, jump a comment here or on the Facebook page and let me know about it - you will be awarded with a Like and a +1.  I stand by my product, but without an editor at present, it makes proofing difficult.

   I have also added the Where to Buy page, featuring links to my buying pages.  While I post Amazon links and my CreateSpace eStores, you can find The Torment, The Shadow, The Heart at your favourite online book store.

   I have also updated the Sample My Work (formerly Samples of My Works) page with an excerpt of the chapter, Metallurgy.  Lamented (along with the following A Crude Homage) as "page after page" of swordmaking, you'll also come across some world building, character development, and a spot of romance that was overlooked.

   For now, I'm back to Volume Two of The Hero of Talbadas, and my other projects.

   Cheers,
   T. M. Shannon

Virtual Book Tour: All Spots Taken!

     Hi guys,

     Well, the tour is full now, no more spots left to go; from here on in its posting, my interviews, and any comments that might come forward.  Cheers, and I hope to see you at one of my many stops!

April 22 - Introduction at VBT Cafe' Blog

April 24 - Guest Blogging at So Much To Write, So Little Time
Any Topic, especially Self-Publishing

April 26 - Spotlight at ScrapBlog

April 29 - Interviewed at Morgen Bailey's Writing Blog

May 2 - Spotlight at Bookalicious Traveladdict

May 7 - Interviewed at BK Walker Books Etc.

May 9 - Guest Blogging at Bikers With Books

May 13 - Guest Blogging at Wise Words Book Blogger

May - From tiny idea to the book shops. What is your writing process?

May 15 - Interviewed at Writing Innovations E-zine

May 17 - Review & Interview at Deal Sharing Aunt

May 20 - Guest Blogging at Lori's Reading Corner