Comments for Irreverent Muse

Comment on Endings by Michell

Michell — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 02:49:27 +0000

Not to worry, I won’t be leaving any of the big threads hanging but I do reserve the right to leave some of the smaller, more obscure ones. You may not even realize what they were until they show up in a future story.

Comment on Endings by B.A. Matthews

B.A. Matthews — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 02:37:56 +0000

Remember that even while you’re leaving a few threads open, you won’t want to leave your threads from the first half of the book unfulfilled. They usually suggest that late promises, those introduced 2/3 way through the book are the ones you’ll want to leave untied for a future work.

I’m really glad you enjoyed this little foray into the genre. Even more importantly, I’d love for you to include a bit in your podcast once you’re done about, “What GalaxyBillies taught me?” on the importance of working outside your genre while you’re still unpublished. Can’t wait for your next episode of “Get Published”.

Comment on Endings by Anonymous

Anonymous — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 17:01:45 +0000

Twitter Trackbacks…

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Comment on Get Published Episode 38 – Ridan Publishing’s Robin Sullivan by Michell

Michell — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:27:09 +0000

I’m sure it would be very enlightening, but I suspect you would be hard-pressed to convince the publisher to let you see it.

Comment on Get Published Episode 38 – Ridan Publishing’s Robin Sullivan by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 20:40:07 +0000

Great episode Mike!

Now I really want to know which book Robin was referring to around 56:00 – the book which had an amazing ending but they had to completely rework the beginning. That’s got to be an awesome ending for them to work that much on it, I’d like to read that book with the original first part, and then the published version of the manuscript. That would be a great learning experience for a newb writer like me.

Comment on New Experiences by Tim

Tim — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 03:20:27 +0000

Hey Michell,

Great post! I heartily agree that our experiences of growth from trials is how we can write good stories about places and people we’ve never been. Character growth should be the focus anyway, so writing in an unknown becomes simply research and application of what we’ve learned from our own life.

Mike Stackpole’s advice on character arcs has really helped my current short story. It’s about a proud leader who must realize that giving his all for a less glorious task, when that is his calling, is better than giving up because he didn’t get the great task he thought he’d have.

Learning about space travel and foreign planets is something I can learn about, but like you said, it will be my experience learning the necessity of working just as hard at “smaller tasks” that will propel the story.

An example of a “smaller task” would be writing the first draft. It won’t be what gets you fame and praise, but it has to be done. Learning to enjoy that, will help you eventually get to the more glorious tasks, but it can’t be skipped. Just an application that came to mind to encourage writing prose we know isn’t the greatest -not that I’m saying yours isn’t

Comment on New Experiences by Scott Roche

Scott Roche — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 12:33:33 +0000

Your experiences are the richest mine you have as a writer.

Comment on GalaxyBillies – Episode 16 by Michell

Michell — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 21:02:49 +0000

Thanks Dan. It’s always nice to get your feedback. I’m hoping the last three episodes are even better.

Comment on GalaxyBillies – Episode 16 by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 20:22:20 +0000

Another great Episode Mike! Thanks for putting these out, I’m really enjoying them. Awesome production.

Comment on The Joy of Creativity by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 16:08:35 +0000

Looks like you’re currently tied for 1st sharing 25% of the votes! Awesome.

Comment on The Joy of Creativity by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 16:07:43 +0000

You have my vote. Congrats Mike!

Comment on You Can Never Give Up by Michell

Michell — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 02:19:18 +0000

Thanks Dan. As they say in GalaxyQuest: “Never give up, never surrender!”

Comment on You Can Never Give Up by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 21:15:42 +0000

Sorry to hear about the extended job hunt, here’s to finding a great one soon. In the mean time, you’re right, those who succeed are the ones who never gave up. Let’s march on, one keystroke at a time!

Comment on You Can Never Give Up by Blaze Matthews

Blaze Matthews — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 19:34:02 +0000

Keep at it, Mike! I remember how bad it was when I was looking for a job a few years ago, but after four months I can see why you’re slogging.

As writers, we need to continually look for that silver lining as well… in this case, that you have at least a bit more free time to pursue your writing, publishing, podcasting, and most importantly, with your family.

Keep at it!

Oh, and a question for your next episode… Do you generally read from a script for the non-interview parts of your show or do you wing it? If you’ve done both, what pros and cons have you noticed for each?

Comment on You Can Never Give Up by Michell

Michell — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 14:29:42 +0000

Keep at it. I was glad to see news of your new story submission. I’m looking forward to reading more in that universe. In fact, I’m planning to write a little Steampunk myself because of your great story. Thanks for the motivation.

Comment on You Can Never Give Up by Scott Roche

Scott Roche — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 14:24:25 +0000

Good thoughts man. I’ve gotten off the submissions horse and need to get back on.

Comment on Get Published Episode 36 – John Hemry Talks About “The Writing Life” by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 20:20:53 +0000

Thanks for answering my question Mike. I’ve always enjoyed hearing how other writers go about writing their stories. Sounds like you have a good one down for different situations. There’s always something for me to learn. I like how you talk about once the story is plotted, you never have to stop to think about what comes next. Take that writers block! I’ve been thinking about coming up with some kind of method such as the one you use with spreadsheets to keep track of everything. I really like what Terry Brooks wrote in his book “Sometimes the Magic Works: Lessons from a Writing Life.” He explains his method, very similar to yours in a lot of ways, and he points out that since he outlines he only has to write the rough draft, one revision, and then he’s done. He writes a paragraph out for each chapter. I usually write the idea for the whole book in one monstrous paragraph, and then try and plot the story out with bullet points. Then try and break it into three acts and see what’s working from there. Dan Wells of the Writing Excuses podcast and author of the Tor book “I Am Not A Serial Killer” has an awesome 7 Point System I’ve been trying to implement lately. His blog post about it with links to a video of the lecture he gave at “Life, The Universe & Everything” on it is here: http://www.fearfulsymmetry.net/?p=405 He pretty much starts with the ending, and then figures it all out from there. Cool Stuff.

Thanks again Mike!

Comment on Get Published Episode 35 – How Sandra Wickham’s Career has Evolved by Twitted by mplested

Twitted by mplested — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 13:52:16 +0000

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Comment on Flying Island Press Launches “Flagship” by Story Published in Flagship Magazine « H.E. Roulo

Story Published in Flagship Magazine « H.E. Roulo — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 17:08:39 +0000

[...] story The Pirate is now available through Flagship Magazine along with stories by Brand Gamblin, Mike Plested, and Philip [...]

Comment on Flying Island Press Launches “Flagship” by Scott Roche

Scott Roche — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 13:52:23 +0000

Thanks again Mike!

Comment on Write Like it Matters by B.A. Matthews

B.A. Matthews — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 06:43:46 +0000

Completely right. I must admit, I’ll complain a bit about how busy I am, but I dump stuff other than writing before I dump the writing… And no matter how busy I am, I know I can find the time for more.

I must admit, lately I haven’t been writing as much as I’d like (due to a sucky bout of tendonitis), but even that’s not a real excuse since I have dragon naturally speaking on my comnputer for that reason.

And don’t worry about being a bit harsh… It’s nice to get a kick in he pants every once in a while.

Comment on Write Like it Matters by Michell

Michell — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:25:54 +0000

Thanks Scott. The tone is a little more harsh than I normally like to write in, but it is an important message. If you look at all the successful people out there, it doesn’t matter what aspect of life they do well in, the common truth is, they make that their priority, whether it’s sports, business or writing.

Comment on Write Like it Matters by Scott Roche

Scott Roche — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 14:59:04 +0000

Great thoughts Mike!

Comment on Get Published Episode 34 – Horror Writer Nancy Kilpatrick Talks Anthologies by Michell

Michell — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 22:52:54 +0000

Hello Tim and thank you for your comment. I’m glad the interviews are helping you with your own work.

I realized I wasn’t giving enough information in the show notes so I reworked them a little. I’m pleased you find them useful.

Comment on Get Published Episode 34 – Horror Writer Nancy Kilpatrick Talks Anthologies by Tim

Tim — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 22:33:52 +0000

Thanks for all the interviews with successful and in the know people. I look forward to hearing them as a motivational tool to my dream career in writing. Thanks also for the organization of links.

Comment on Confidence Breeds Success – Success Breeds Confidence by Scott Roche

Scott Roche — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 02:41:41 +0000

Congratulations and welcome aboard!!!

Comment on Face-to-Face Meetings by Michell

Michell — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 14:12:16 +0000

I’ll be drawing on my Balticon experience for quite a while. You’ll hear more in the coming weeks.

Comment on Face-to-Face Meetings by DanDanTheArtMan

DanDanTheArtMan — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 03:40:34 +0000

Woops, nevermind, this isn’t the Galaxy Billies Episode 11 post I was thinking I was commenting on, can you tell I’m 2 Episodes in as a podcaster?

Comment on Face-to-Face Meetings by DanDanTheArtMan

DanDanTheArtMan — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 03:39:05 +0000

Awesome stuff, I’ve been waiting to see something about your experience at Balticon, just didn’t expect it to be in a Galaxy Billies post. It sounds like it was a blast, I can’t wait to hear those interviews because I love listening to people talk about writing! Great stuff Mike, I hope to hear more about it in the next Get Published episode as well. Glad you had a good time, Scott seems like a great guy from talking with him a bit online. All the podcast authors do! The Tribe rocks.

Comment on Face-to-Face Meetings by Michell

Michell — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 22:02:00 +0000

I hope it won’t be my last too and thank you again. I enjoyed the back and forth with you.

Comment on Face-to-Face Meetings by Scott Roche

Scott Roche — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 21:58:10 +0000

It was a pleasure to meet you Mike and I’m glad I could help. I tend to be more social than some, though even I suffer from social awkwardness from time to time.

Glad you enjoyed your first Balticon and that it was productive and enjoyable. I hope it won’t be your last.

And thanks for being my photographer and for putting up with all my Canada jokes ya hoser.

Comment on GalaxyBillies – Episode 11 by Tweets that mention Irreverent Muse » Blog Archive » GalaxyBillies – Episode 11 -- Topsy.com

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 13:19:41 +0000

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Comment on Face-to-Face Meetings by Michell

Michell — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 17:51:11 +0000

I completely agree with the “at home” feeling. It only took me an hour or so before I was in that zone too. And even though we met face-to-face over Skype, it was great to meet you in person. I’m looking forward to more of your work and seeing you again.

Comment on Face-to-Face Meetings by Philippa Ballantine

Philippa Ballantine — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 17:26:02 +0000

It was great to meet you in person Michell, and I totally understand the social awkwardness thing. Sometimes I feel that too- but at Balti I was totally at home. The online world prepared me, and it felt like a meeting of friends that I simply hadn’t met face to face yet.

Comment on Face-to-Face Meetings by Tweets that mention New Content Available: Face-to-Face Meetings on Irreverent Muse. You can find it here -- Topsy.com

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:53:19 +0000

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Comment on Face-to-Face Meetings by Michell

Michell — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:52:18 +0000

As you will hear John Hemry say in an upcoming interview, the con is probably the best place for us to be because writers are, as a general rule, shy and will understand. I won’t say Scott was my security blanket, but he certainly helped to break the ice for me.

The fact that I LOVE to talk writing helped a lot too.

There is hope though. Take it in small steps.

Comment on Face-to-Face Meetings by Jeff Hite

Jeff Hite — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:12:36 +0000

I am glad you had a good time. Scott is a great guy, much taller than I thought (from the pictures) and I am glad he was there to help you out. I understand the Social Awkwardness thing, if fact it is the bane of my existence. My Social Awkwardness is compounded by sever embarrassment. I think the best description ever was when Neil Gaiman described “Fat” Charlie’s embarrassment. If you have not read it you should, but because it was a perfect description of me. My wife tells a joke that when we are in public she always know where the baby is, it’s always in my arms because then I can carry a security blanket and no one says anything. (really the baby is the security blanket) People will come to see the baby but don’t much bother dad. When I talked about going to a con, the first question that my wife asked me was are you going to take the baby with you? So I completely understand your shyness issue. I don’t suggest the road have gone down, but if you have a baby handy they do make a pretty good security blanket. Thanks for posting this and letting us shy folks know that there is hope for us.

Comment on Developing New Writing Habits by Tahlia

Tahlia — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 05:31:00 +0000

I think its great that the publisher is willing to look at it again. I say, leave it for a while, then go for it again. It’s worth it.

My agent asked me to lose 19000 words from my YA/Adult fantasy novel. I did and it improved it.

My bad habit is the opposite of yours – too much description. – hence the beauty of having to cut so many words. I’m also a visual artist and I see my story as if I’m watching a movie. Maybe that will help you. i have definitly improved with practice, we all do.

It’s great to connect with other writers. I’ll be coming back to spend more time here.

You might like to have a look at ch 1, it’s on the ‘Lethal Inheritance’ page of http://publishersearch.wordpress.com

Comment on Developing New Writing Habits by Tahlia

Tahlia — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 05:24:33 +0000

Hi Michell, I think it’s great that the publisher is prepared to look at a rewrite. That means they are definitly interested. I tend to look on the bright side in all this business, otherwise we can easily get discouraged. So go for it, Rewrite it.

I thought mine was finished when my agent asked me to cut 19,000 words. I did it and it is better. One of my bad habits is putting in too much description, hence the cutting down! I see my story in my head like a movie, so I don’t find it hard to describe it, just to describe it with the minimum of words.

It’s nice to connect with other writers. You can see ch 1 of my YA/Adult fantasy novel on the ‘Lethal Inheritance’ page on
http://publishersearch.wordpress.com

Comment on Developing New Writing Habits by DanDanTheArtMan

DanDanTheArtMan — Sat, 29 May 2010 01:59:17 +0000

Great post Mike, I have the same problem. I love Robert Jordan, but sometimes the story isn’t moving forward because the characters are just belching out exposition. That said, I think I try to write a story with no boring parts, but I’ve been told I lack description. I think I’m trying too hard to make my stories move quickly. I’m constantly thinking about story structure now when I watch movies, and read books. There are so many things I need to get a handle on in my writing, but we will all march on, learning as we go, and hopefully improving with every paragraph written or deleted Hope you’re having a great time at Balticon!

Comment on Get Published Episode 32 – The Importance of Agents: A Conversation with CA Marshall by CA Marshall

CA Marshall — Sat, 29 May 2010 00:37:03 +0000

Thanks, Michell! That phone thing doesn’t sound too horrible, does it?

ps, I changed my twitter username to CA_Marshall recently to better reflect my “brand” (hate that word). But oh well.

Comment on Get Published Episode 32 – The Importance of Agents: A Conversation with CA Marshall by Tweets that mention Irreverent Muse » Blog Archive » Get Published Episode 32 – The Importance of Agents: A Conversation with CA Marshall -- Topsy.com

Fri, 28 May 2010 23:34:26 +0000

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Comment on Developing New Writing Habits by Michell

Michell — Wed, 26 May 2010 16:11:48 +0000

I’ve thought about the whole description thing a lot. I like to think that I’m observant, but I know I don’t see nearly as much as say, an artist. I’ve got to work on developing that eye, I suppose. Good luck to us all in developing better writing habits.

Comment on Developing New Writing Habits by Michell

Michell — Wed, 26 May 2010 16:10:27 +0000

Yes, it feels good to know that I’m almost at the point where my work is ready. The only downside is, I hate waiting. Ah well, anything worth doing is worth doing well, right?

Comment on Developing New Writing Habits by Michell

Michell — Wed, 26 May 2010 16:08:52 +0000

I guess writing well is like anything else. Practice, practice, practice. It also doesn’t hurt to have friends and colleagues encouraging you along the way.

Comment on Developing New Writing Habits by B.A. Matthews

B.A. Matthews — Wed, 26 May 2010 15:50:14 +0000

Hey, hope you enjoy your Balticon, Mike. Personally, I quite have troubles with adding description as well, although I usually describe it as White-Room Syndrome. I have tried to add in more description, but much like you, its an uphill struggle the whole way.

Comment on Developing New Writing Habits by Beq

Beq — Wed, 26 May 2010 14:32:37 +0000

Congrats on the good feedback despite the ‘rejection’! Nice to know you’re ‘almost there.’

The point about learning new habits is a good one. My husband wrote some stories, mostly for his own enjoyment, that had some good and bad in them. Now that he’s undertaken a much larger project the bad habits are shining through and one of them is the same as the one you’ve described above: Lack of detail.

I really wish you luck with learning to add the descriptive detail needed to flesh the story out. I’m not good at it either and I need to work on this as well.

Comment on Developing New Writing Habits by odin

odin — Wed, 26 May 2010 14:11:14 +0000

One of the things I am most dissatisfied in my own writing is the dialogue. I feel it is very wooden at times and lacks the sense of “naturalness” that is necessary to be an enjoyable read. So, I have to admit, this is an area that I have been trying to work on with each little thing I write. Sometimes it seems to work, other times, well not so much.

Great post!

Comment on GalaxyBillies – Episode 10 by Michell

Michell — Mon, 24 May 2010 22:34:29 +0000

Glad you enjoyed it and I’m glad the sound effect had the desired response. I don’t use many SFX but I do like to make them count.

Comment on GalaxyBillies – Episode 10 by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Mon, 24 May 2010 20:36:58 +0000

Great episode Mike, I really enjoyed it. That sound effect you used for Greckor pulling the guy’s arm off worked really well, it make me sqworm in my seat a little Nice work!

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Mon, 24 May 2010 15:09:25 +0000

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Comment on Preparing for Departure by Michell

Michell — Thu, 20 May 2010 22:10:14 +0000

Most definitely!

Comment on Preparing for Departure by Brandy Ackerley

Brandy Ackerley — Thu, 20 May 2010 04:24:11 +0000

Enjoy your Trip! Definitely give us a run down of the convention when you get back.

Comment on Internet Marketing by Michell

Michell — Wed, 19 May 2010 15:31:31 +0000

Thanks Bruce. You are absolutely right. Each rejection is another step closer to publication. This particular book has now been requested (as a full) by three different presses, so I am confident it will find a home eventually.

MegaDan has been doing a great job on GalaxyBillies. I’ve had lots of fun writing him a recurring role. I’ve also really appreciated his evangelism to a different audience than I normally tap into. Also special thanks to Ross for his great suggestion. Now I just need people to start signing up on the Facebook page

I’m glad you’re enjoying the podcast and thank you so much for listening and taking the time to send me this feedback.

Comment on Internet Marketing by Bruce

Bruce — Wed, 19 May 2010 15:15:05 +0000

First off, congratulations on your latest rejection. Not that I don’t want your book to be published, but rather the opposite. Statistically, your book will need to go through a number of rejections in order for it to find it’s eventual home – I’m thinking that you are one more rejection closer to being published.

Also kudos to Megadon for helping to spread the word about GalaxyBillies to a new corner of fandom the Internet – and for donating for the Boom Effect. I’m looking forward to hearing his guest role.

Additional kudos to Ross Gallagher for suggesting the Facebook presence & to you for setting it up. Personally, Facebook drives me crazy, but it really is one of the places that authors/podcasters need a “storefront” presence & Facebook users are an audience to send the word out to.

Again, awesome job on GalaxyBillies & well wished for your YA novel.

Comment on Get Published Episode 31 – A Chat with Author, Podcaster & DMP Art Director Alex White by Michell

Michell — Wed, 19 May 2010 14:08:17 +0000

Happy to help out

I like what you’re trying to do and I wish you all the success in the world. Good luck!

Comment on Get Published Episode 31 – A Chat with Author, Podcaster & DMP Art Director Alex White by Jeffrey Hite

Jeffrey Hite — Wed, 19 May 2010 14:03:48 +0000

I just wanted to say thank you for talking about Flying Island, it means a lot to us that you are out there spreading the word

Comment on Get Published Episode 30 – PG Holyfield Talks Murder at Avedon Hill Release by Michell

Michell — Tue, 04 May 2010 00:00:13 +0000

Glad to hear I’m delivering the goods and you’re enjoying the show. Thanks for the feedback.

Comment on Get Published Episode 30 – PG Holyfield Talks Murder at Avedon Hill Release by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Mon, 03 May 2010 21:28:04 +0000

Great episode Mike! It was really cool to hear you interview P.G. Holyfield, he’s one of my favorite podiobook authors. You keep getting great guest, I love it! Keep up the good work. Thanks for putting this show together, I always look forward to a new episode, and that’s two of my favorites in a row!

Comment on Book Review: Evolve, Vampire Stories of the New Undead by DanDanTheArtMan

DanDanTheArtMan — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 18:18:29 +0000

Great review, sounds pretty good. I want to write a whole bunch of short stories, and I’d love to read more. I should look into this and more anthologies. Thanks Mike!

Comment on Don’t Be Afraid of Small Steps by Brandy Ackerley

Brandy Ackerley — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 05:30:03 +0000

That’s too bad… I’m looking forward to sitting in on a few of the panels. Enjoy your already booked weekend Mike!

If you’d like I could probably take notes for you. No guarantee they’ll be legible to anyone other than me though.

Comment on Book Review: Evolve, Vampire Stories of the New Undead by Janice Shoults

Janice Shoults — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 20:27:17 +0000

The book was actually JUST released in April, 2010, and will be released in the US in August 2010. If you could let people know that, it would be appreciated. Let me know when you want to set up your interview with Nancy.

Comment on Don’t Be Afraid of Small Steps by Michell

Michell — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 18:54:11 +0000

Hello Brandy. Unfortunately, I’m not going to Comic Con this year (already booked out of town). As to where you can find Mystic Signals, I believe you can order it off the following webpage: http://www.sorceroussignals.com/SorcerousSignals.html.

Comment on Don’t Be Afraid of Small Steps by Brandy Ackerley

Brandy Ackerley — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 18:42:57 +0000

You’re very welcome, Mike! By posting it on Facebook, I’m hoping a few of our non-mutual friends will see it and check out your items as well!

As for where it’s printing, it definately bears repeating… also, where can I pick it up? I don’t recall seeing it on the shelves of my local 7-Eleven Store.

By the way, are you planning on attending the comic con this weekend? I’ll be there Saturday, and you’re attending (and not already booked) perhaps we could meet for lunch or at one of the panels? Lets face it, that panel on copyright looks too interesting to miss!

Comment on Don’t Be Afraid of Small Steps by Michell

Michell — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:11:29 +0000

Thanks for the congratulations, both here and on Facebook. I really appreciate it.

It is, as the post suggests, only a small step, but a big one at the same time. I’m really happy to have the story accepted.

I don’t think it’s a secret. The story is a fantasy piece about a Wizard with aspirations of immortality. It will appear in both Sorcerous Signals ezine and Mystic Signals quarterly print magazine in August (I know I probably said that but it bears repeating)

Comment on Get Published Episode 29 – Nathan Lowell’s Journey to Publication by Michell

Michell — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:08:47 +0000

I’m very lucky to have all the interesting people on the show. Definitely one of the perks. I’m glad you liked the Parsec promo. I did write it and it was a lot of fun to see it come to life. It’s a shame that money isn’t unlimited sometimes, isn’t it?

Comment on Don’t Be Afraid of Small Steps by Brandy Ackerley

Brandy Ackerley — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 23:40:14 +0000

Congratulations, Mike!!!

That is a brilliant opportunity for you! So now you can stop worrying over your own credential in getting others published since you HAVE been published now, right?

I can’t wait to read your story! Can you let us know what the story is about (genre and all that) or are you held to secrecy at this point?

Comment on Get Published Episode 29 – Nathan Lowell’s Journey to Publication by Brandy Ackerley

Brandy Ackerley — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 23:32:12 +0000

You do get the most interesting people to interview. I didn’t mention, but I enjoyed your parsec ad as well. Did you write it yourself?

Thanks for the link. I won’t be joining any new courses until after I register for SiWC, but afterward, but one of my year goals was to take a professional course…. This one sounds great.

Comment on Don’t Be Afraid of Small Steps by Michell

Michell — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 15:39:00 +0000

Thanks Dan. I was/is a great feeling.

Comment on Don’t Be Afraid of Small Steps by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 15:15:10 +0000

Great post Mike, some wise words of wisdom. Congrats on the publishing of your short story, that is great news!!! Awesome man, well done.

Comment on Get Published Episode 29 – Nathan Lowell’s Journey to Publication by Michell

Michell — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 15:03:33 +0000

Thanks Dan. I’m glad you’re enjoying the interview. I must confess, I was looking forward to speaking with Nathan too. I hope to chat with him in person at Balticon in May.

Comment on Get Published Episode 29 – Nathan Lowell’s Journey to Publication by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:54:37 +0000

Wow, great interview! Thanks for expertly answering my call in question, I think I’ll record from now on instead of voice mail, so the audio quality won’t be so bad, or just not call while driving But man, what a great interview!!! I love hearing Nathan talk about his books and writing, and you had great questions, I’m definitely on my second go around already, listening to this one again. Thanks Mike!

Comment on Get Published Episode 29 – Nathan Lowell’s Journey to Publication by Michell

Michell — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:09:32 +0000

You are absolutely right about the link and thank you for your comments. The company is “The Writing School” at http://www.qualityofcourse.com/.

Comment on Get Published Episode 29 – Nathan Lowell’s Journey to Publication by Brandy Ackerley

Brandy Ackerley — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 05:02:12 +0000

Great show, Michell. I didn’t see the link you said you would put up for the class you took though. Is the class no longer available?

Over an hour is a bit long, but the only time I’d growl would be if the shows went longer than an hour and a half.

Keep them coming!

Comment on Get Published Episode 29 – Nathan Lowell’s Journey to Publication by uberVU - social comments

uberVU - social comments — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 12:36:51 +0000

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Comment on Where Does the Time Go? by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 21:07:03 +0000

Sorry to hear about your job, hope you find a great one very soon. In the mean time, we all get to enjoy the great content you put out

Comment on GalaxyBillies – Episode 7 by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 21:01:52 +0000

Another great one Mike. The nick names that Betty-Sue came up with for the ship had me rolling, especially the one you started out the episode with! Oh man, that was a good laugh. Well done my friend.

Comment on The Power of “Get Involved” by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 16:23:56 +0000

Nice post.

Comment on Where Does the Time Go? by Brandy Ackerley

Brandy Ackerley — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 06:28:27 +0000

The time flies when we’re busy… and flies even more when we’re not! Personally, I find that if I am insanely busy, I will get tons of writing done… but if I’m not, or I don’t feel like other people are imposing restrictions, then I will procrastinate until I’m blue in the face. If you figure out a way to get past that, let me know!

Blessings for you as well… May you find good work, close to home, quickly and without fail. ^_^

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Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:18:17 +0000

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Tue, 13 Apr 2010 04:12:18 +0000

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Comment on Get Published Episode 28 – Tad Williams Talks Writing by Michell

Michell — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 18:52:36 +0000

Welcome Clifton and thanks! I’m glad you had a listen. Lots more episodes for you to sample.

Tad is a great guy with a very obvious passion for writing. I’ve enjoyed his work for several years now. I highly recommend him.

Comment on Get Published Episode 28 – Tad Williams Talks Writing by Clifton Hill

Clifton Hill — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 18:40:42 +0000

Enjoyable podcast and the first of yours I’ve listened to. Tad Williams was a pleasure to listen to and I may very well have to look up one of his books.

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Sun, 11 Apr 2010 17:04:45 +0000

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Wed, 07 Apr 2010 14:44:51 +0000

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Comment on The Power of “Get Involved” by Michell

Michell — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 14:27:10 +0000

I totally agree. Not to mention, once published you aren’t guaranteed to receive further contracts or sales. The next phase of the work is only beginning then.

Comment on The Power of “Get Involved” by Scott Roche

Scott Roche — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 14:23:05 +0000

I think the “networking” part of social networking is really important and it often gets emphasized. I also think it’s got to be social in the sense that I think it’s needs to be personal and that needs emphasis as well. And I think that’s what you’re saying. Neither the social nor the networking will get us published or if we are published will get us sales, but they are useful in other ways.

And I really hope no one thinks that Podcasting=Published but as we said during NaNo there are people that think novel being written = novel being good. So who knows?

Comment on What’s Next? by Michell

Michell — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 19:07:06 +0000

It was definitely a rejection that gave me hope for the future. If/when something happens with my YA novel I will definitely be telling everyone about it. Chances are good that you’ll want me to shut up about it before too long.

Comment on Internet Marketing by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 18:29:33 +0000

I think everyone’s magic bullet is different. I do think there are some great tools out there for us to get some exposure. Will this audience we gain purchase our work, or simply really enjoy our free content? It’s hard to say. I think that Scott Sigler has a good point when he talks about putting stuff out there on a consistent basis for a few years to build up an audience. That’s what I’m going to try and do. It worked for Nathan Lowell with almost zero butt shaking, but a whole heck of a lot of content. He was working it, by producing content. If you build it, they will come. I think getting a “New York” contract is still going to be as it was before, the right story, in the right hands, at the right time. Is this New Media promotion a fast track for some authors to get that story in front of the right eyes and out of the slush pile? Maybe. I’m curious to see what happens with the third generation of podiobook authors who are new to the space, putting out stuff right now. Hopefully I’ll join their ranks by year’s end or early 2011. Sorry if I’m preaching to the converted here It’s fun to hash out these ideas and see what other people think.

Comment on What’s Next? by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 17:50:11 +0000

Man I hate it when I misuse your and write “you’re” 8|

Comment on What’s Next? by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 17:49:13 +0000

Awesome rejection Mike! I hope your middle grade novel comes back with deal on the table! I’m sure you’ll let us know how that all plays out. Congrats, that is some wonderful confirmation that you’re writing is at the publishing level, it just needs to hit the right person’s desk, at the right time. We’re cheering for you dude!

Comment on Review of ‘Bitter Release’ by Scott Roche by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 17:34:14 +0000

Great review Mike. I really liked the story as well, I’m trying to cut my chops on short stories. It’s hard to tell a complete story in a short amount of time, and still have it feel like a complete story. I think it’s helping me cut down on fluff. Great artwork on that one by the way

Comment on Get Published Episode 28 – Tad Williams Talks Writing by Michell

Michell — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 17:30:57 +0000

Keep your great questions coming, Dan. They keep the show interesting.

Comment on Get Published Episode 28 – Tad Williams Talks Writing by Dan Dan The Art Man

Dan Dan The Art Man — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 17:28:32 +0000

Thanks for your answers to my call-in questions Mike!

Suit the story and the character, great advice. I liked how you summed up what I was after by saying not to “Show off your vocab” when you can be mose clear with smaller words. I think in a third person story, perhaps I should try and suit the character of the narrator to decide whether or not some words may just be in there to “show off,” my vocabulary.

I’ve heard “he said,” is best because it becomes invisible to the reader, while something like, “he exclaimed,” can get distracting as you said.

Cleared up some things for me Mike, great answers. Thanks for taking the time!

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uberVU - social comments — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 15:30:28 +0000

Social comments and analytics for this post…

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Sun, 04 Apr 2010 22:05:32 +0000

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Comment on Review of ‘Bitter Release’ by Scott Roche by Michell

Michell — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 02:30:00 +0000

You did a lot of good things in the story and I enjoyed it. I look forward to your future efforts as well.

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Sat, 03 Apr 2010 01:13:43 +0000

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Comment on Review of ‘Bitter Release’ by Scott Roche by Scott Roche

Scott Roche — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 00:43:36 +0000

You rock! Thanks for this review.

I really appreciate your honesty. I’m glad that the ending was unexpected and am most glad that it stands up to multiple readings.

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Tweets that mention Irreverent Muse » Blog Archive » What’s Next? -- Topsy.com — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 13:52:15 +0000

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