All posts tagged In Her Shadow

Self-Love, Recovery and a Thriller Freebie!

body image

Embracing our physical selves can be one of life’s toughest feats. My personal battle with low body image started at age 5 and lasted into my late 20s, and in my years of eating disorder recovery and the thriving that’s followed, I’ve encountered hundreds, perhaps thousands, of women whose battles run deeper and longer. It’s not fair or right that so many of us loathe ourselves, or that we’re taught to place our personal self-worth on factors as trivial as dress size, facial features or weight. But all of that’s too easy in today’s world.

If there’s one thing that my personal journey has taught me, it’s that the cliche holds true: True beauty really does radiate from within. When we strive to fulfill our hearts’ and souls’ desires rather than expectations set by diet trends, the media or the entertainment industry, we feel and appear more beautiful in EVERY way. LIFE becomes beautiful, and so does our place in it. 

Anyone who’s overcome eating disorder will attest that coming to terms with this is the most difficult and important work one can ever do. Those who’ve found their way through darkness to the sunshine called full, forever recovery (I consider myself recovered) also know a special kind of glory that can be all of ours.

In honor of the beautiful folks who are grappling with eating disorders or related issues (disordered eating, depression, anxiety…), I’m running a freebie promotion of my novel, In Her Shadow, today through Saturday. Since my last freebie promotion boosted sales afterward significantly, I’ve decided to donate 10 percent of my profits for the month following to the National Eating Disorders Association. I’m so excited to support this wonderful organization.

In case you’re unfamiliar, here’s a glimpse at my novel’s story:

One woman locked in a basement, nearing death and longing for escape. Another baffled by the inexplicable symptoms wreaking havoc on her life. Both are lost and alone, yet somehow connected. And time is running out…

In Her Shadow cover_med

Near the tenth anniversary of her parents’ unexpected death, Claire Fiksen, a lovely young Harvard-grad and gifted psychologist in Minnesota, develops bizarre symptoms of an eating disorder that threaten her fledgling career, her relationship with a handsome young medical student, her grasp on reality and, soon, her life.

When her beloved grandfather reveals that there may be more to her parents’ death than she’s realized, Claire’s pursuit of healing becomes a desperate search for answers as she delves into her family’s sordid past. Meanwhile, someone is watching her every move, plotting to draw her into her own twisted web of misery.

Claire has something he needs, and he’ll stop at nothing to obtain it. Every step Claire takes brings her closer to the truth and danger. And her life, she discovers, isn’t the only one at stake.

 “As McLaughlin, a certified nutritionist and health writer, slowly reveals the mysteries behind Claire’s illness, as well as long-hidden truths and snippets of memories, the novel’s darkness gathers like storm clouds. An engaging story with an inventive structure and an intriguing focus on body-image issues.” — Kirkus Reviews

To nab your free e-copy, visit IN HER SHADOW on Amazon.com today through Saturday, August 10th at midnight.

*****

SPECIAL EVENT! I’d also like to invite you all to a virtual party taking place on Facebook tonight from 6 – 8:30pm PST. I’ll be sharing an abbreviated live recording of my story, “Does Dirt Have Calories?,” sharing highlights from my recovery, taking and posing questions and keeping the virtual empowering drinks flowing! I hope you’ll stop by and join the fun.

For details, to RSVP and to join in once the party has started, visit BEYOND THE SHADOWS: A SELF-DISCOVERY/RECOVERY PARTY!

Thanks, all, for your ongoing support and overall awesomeness! You’re total bright spots in my day. ♥

22 Comments
by August McLaughlin on August 8, 2013  •  Permalink
Posted in Body image, Books, IN HER SHADOW, Life, Thriller / Suspense
Tagged , , , , , ,

Posted by August McLaughlin on August 8, 2013

https://augustmclaughlin.wordpress.com/2013/08/08/self-love-recovery-and-a-thriller-freebie/

My Thriller and Folk Tunes: Gifts For You

“What do you want to be when you grow up?” Do you remember the first time you were asked that? And your answer?

I do. I was in the kindergarten when my teacher, Mrs. Webster, asked us to draw the answer. I sketched a smiling, yellow-haired girl, clutching a microphone. I’m not even sure why—though I did have a thing for Barbie and the Rockers’ mega-hit “Born with a Mic In Your Hand.” And, I still have a thing for microphones…

It's kind of a sickness.

It’s kind of a sickness.

Regardless, the idea of using my voice has stuck with me through many shifted dreams and career paths. Now that I’m a writer, I feel as though some part of me knew where I was headed all along.

Since music is so precious to me, and my songwriting long preceded my book-writing, I’ve decided to give away MP3s of a couple of my originals. Why now? Because the Kindle version of my novel, IN HER SHADOW, is FREE today through Saturday. I’d love your support, if you’re so willing.

Here’s how you can participate:

1) Download IN HER SHADOW for Kindle today or tomorrow, and/or gift it to someone else. You can also purchase the paperback, which is currently discounted: $12.95, instead of $13.95.

2) Email a copy of your purchase confirmation(s) to: august at augustmclaughlin dot com

3) For one download/purchase, you’ll receive my song, “Cinderella.” For two downloads/purchases, you’ll receive “Cinderella” and “Solitude (Mr. Ground) – LIVE.”

You can also Tweet this giveaway event to your friends and/or post it on Facebook. Tag me, and I’ll add your name to a drawing for a $20 Amazon.com gift card. Feel free to use the sample tweet below, make it your own, or simply share my blog link.

Psych thriller IN HER SHADOW is #FREE on #Kindle – 3 days only: http://www.amazon.com/In-Her-Shadow-ebook/dp/B00APOODTA/ @AugstMcLaughlin

Easy, right? Thanks in advance for any support you’re inclined to share.

In Her Shadow cover_med

What did you first want to be when you grew up? Do you have more than one creative outlet? What projects are your working on or promoting? I’d love to cheer you on. ♥

22 Comments
by August McLaughlin on April 11, 2013  •  Permalink
Posted in Books, IN HER SHADOW, Music
Tagged , , , , , ,

Posted by August McLaughlin on April 11, 2013

https://augustmclaughlin.wordpress.com/2013/04/11/my-thriller-and-folk-tunes-gifts-for-you/

MN and LA Book Events + BlogFest Reminders

Happy weekend, all! It’s not often I chat with you here on Saturdays. Are you in your PJs? Enjoying a lazy or lively morning with loved ones? Or is it another “typical” work-from-home/artist’s day? (Weekend? What’s that?!?) Regardless, I hope you’re well.

It’s been two months since my e-release, and one since we partied virtually here and on Facebook. While I’m a huge fan of e-books and social media, and had a ball e-festing with you all, I deeply value tangible books and in-person connections. So here’s what I’ve got cooking for March, in my childhood and current stomping grounds:

Tuesday, March 12th (Los Angeles)
Paperback Book Release Party – August & The Torn Out Pages (or maybe 1)
8:00 – 10:30pm @Los Globos 3040 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, California – $10 cover charge
I’ll be dusting off my gee-tar to sing from 8:30 – 9:pm.

August & the Torn Out Pages

Thursday, March 21st (Minneapolis)
Book Reading/Signing – Free admission
7 – 9pm @ The Coffee Shop NE: 2852 Johnson St. NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418

Saturday, March 23rd (Bloomington, MN)
Bloomington Writers’ Festival and Book Fair
9:30am – 5pm @ The Blooming Theater and Art Center: 1800 W Old Shakopee Rd, Bloomington, MN 55431

Saturday, April 20th (Los Angeles)
Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
10am – 4pm @ USC Campus

If you happen to be in the Los Angeles or Minneapolis area next month, I hope you’ll join me.

What events are you anticipating? Do you prefer events online, in-person or both? Will I see you in March?

Speaking of online functions, don’t forget to pop by next Friday, February 22nd, for the 2nd annual Beauty of a Woman BlogFest! Whether you join as a blogger, reader or both, you are in for a treat. You may even win a Kindle.

To sign up or for more details, visit the BOAW blog-fest page. If you’ve already signed up, remember to post your installment on your blog this coming Thursday, by 7pm PST, along with this year’s badge and a link to my blog so your readers can check out everyone’s beauty-full links. I can’t wait to fest with you! ♥

BOAW 2013

“The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman is seen in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides.” — Sam Levinson (quoted by Audrey Hepburn)

23 Comments
by August McLaughlin on February 16, 2013  •  Permalink
Posted in Books, IN HER SHADOW, Life
Tagged , ,

Posted by August McLaughlin on February 16, 2013

https://augustmclaughlin.wordpress.com/2013/02/16/mn-and-la-book-events-blogfest-reminders/

Criminal Cupid: A Thriller Threesome

There’s nothing quite like a threesome to turn the mundane, plain or pleasant into pure excitement, making the stress and monotony of everyday life irrelevant, if even for a few adrenaline-soaked hours.

Forget roses, greeting cards and candy hearts this Valentine’s Day. You deserve a threesome!

Wait. Put your clothes back on! You knew we were talking about books…right? Okay, good. Because Kristine Cayne, CJ West and I have a sweeter-than-chocolate treat for you. For two days only, February 13th and 14th, we’re offering three thrillers for 99 cents each. Purchase three books for a chance to win an I Survived A Thriller Threesome t-shirt (a $20 value). Purchase one of our books for $10 off of a t-shirt (payable to me via PayPal).

How to play:

Purchase the following for yourself and/or others via Amazon. You must purchase three e-books for a chance to win a threesome tee. Though it’d tickle our frisky fancies if you purchased all three, any combination works. In other words, if you’ve read CJ’s book and loved it, you’re welcome to gift it to three friends. Or you could gift two of Kristine’s book to friends and nab mine for yourself. You get the idea. Then in the comments below, let me know that you’ve made three purchases. (How often do you get to say things like, “I ordered my thriller threesome!” ???) If your name is drawn, I’ll request proof of purchase. We’re giving away six shirts, so your chances are good!

The playmates:

Threesome t-shirt back

Addicted to Love, by CJ West:

Wes Holiday sells his landscaping business and retreats to a quaint mountain town to heal after ending a ten year relationship with a woman he couldn’t bring himself to marry. In three weeks he is so captivated by a hair stylist that he deprives himself of food and sleep to be near her. When the local sheriff is murdered, Wes is recruited to keep the peace in the town his parents built, but he knows nothing about law enforcement and he’s struggling to understand how a woman he just met can dominate his every waking thought. Soon the idyllic town with a penchant for romance is rocked by a bizarre series of murders that defy explanation and it is up to Wes to stop a raging epidemic of violence. Purchase via Amazon

Deadly Addiction, by Kristine Cayne:

When beautiful police sergeant Alyssa Morgan enters his life, Rémi Whitedeer never expects her to upend it. Not only does she have his hormones in an uproar, she’s also threatening to take the position he wants–Chief of Police for the Iroquois Blackriver Reservation. But Alyssa is more than a Barbie cop. Her ends-justifies-the-means philosophy, so different from his own, challenges Rémi on every level. With her sharp investigative skills and her fearlessness, she leads Rémi to confront bitter truths about his family and his standing as a man of mixed race within his tribe.

Tall hunky Rémi Whitedeer, of the panty-melting grin and the smoldering green eyes, flips Alyssa’s world ass over teakettle. She’s always had a laser-like focus on the job, but Rémi proves a constant distraction. His inner strength and sense of purpose strip away the winner-take-all attitude Alyssa wears like armor. Soon she’s longing for more–a more that terrifies and intrigues her. If he finds out the fine line she’d walked while undercover, will he still want her? And will she ever find the courage to let him–or anyone–that far in?

When Alyssa and Rémi uncover a drug-fueled scheme involving a biker gang from Alyssa’s past and a militant sovereigntist group led by Rémi’s cousin, they are forced to choose between their growing love for each other and the lives they’ve worked so hard to build. Will Rémi and Alyssa have to leave everything behind–even their identities–for the chance of a future together? Purchase via Amazon

In Her Shadow, by August McLaughlin:

One woman locked in a basement, nearing death and longing for escape. Another baffled by the inexplicable symptoms wreaking havoc on her life. Both are lost and alone, yet somehow connected. And time is running out…

Near the tenth anniversary of her parents’ unexpected death, Claire Fiksen, a lovely young Harvard-grad and gifted psychologist in Minnesota, develops bizarre symptoms of an eating disorder that threaten her fledgling career, her relationship with a handsome young medical student, her grasp on reality and, soon, her life.

When her beloved grandfather reveals that there may be more to her parents’ death than she’s realized, Claire’s pursuit of healing becomes a desperate search for answers as she delves into her family’s sordid past. Meanwhile, someone is watching her every move, plotting to draw her into her own twisted web of misery. Claire has something he needs, and he’ll stop at nothing to obtain it. Every step Claire takes brings her closer to the truth and danger. And her life, she discovers, isn’t the only one at stake. Purchase via Amazon

Thriller Threesome shirt

For more more writerly, book and threesome fun, pop by my fellow playmates’ blogs:

Blogging with Kristine Cayne  ♥  C.J. West: Suspense. Creativity. Action

Wishing you a happy Valentine’s Day and, if you choose to play, a very thrilling threesome. 🙂

August, Kristine and C.J.

Have you ordered your Thriller Threesome? Do tell! Spicy details and creativity welcome!

29 Comments
by August McLaughlin on February 13, 2013  •  Permalink
Posted in Authors, Books, IN HER SHADOW, Thriller / Suspense
Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

Posted by August McLaughlin on February 13, 2013

https://augustmclaughlin.wordpress.com/2013/02/13/criminal-cupid-a-thriller-threesome/

IN HER SHADOW Paperback Release and Giveaway

As a kid, my mouth seemed to house only sweet-teeth. I’d eat sugar cubes by the handful, given the chance, and once trick-or-treated in the heat of July (dress up plus free candy: a total sweet-o-holic win-win). Years later, when disordered eating set in, sweets became the bad boyfriend I had to resist, or face punishment. It’s a beautiful thing to be past all of that, particularly since it’s allowed me to recognize and pursue my writing dreams.

Good thing nature makes "candy," too.

Good thing nature makes “candy,” too.

In his book How to Write a Damn Good Thriller, James Frey describes concern over social injustice as the reason authors write certain thrillers, such as Blood Diamond, Dr. Stangelove, Serpico and The Constant Gardener. The authors feel compelled to shed light on and perhaps help correct these injustices, he says, thereby improving the world. I certainly relate to that motivation, and in my own meager way, that’s one of the things I’ve tried to do with In Her Shadow: shed some light into what eating disorders feel like from the inside. From understanding stems growth.

Since my e-book release last month, there have been exhilarating highs and proverbial dips. One day after I received praise from Kirkus Reviews, a reader called my novel unedited, and my use of the acronym  E.D. “lazy” and mistakable for erectile dysfunction. (You can laugh. I have. :)) Like all books, mine is not for everyone, nor is the rocky ride known as publishing. When our work resonates with readers, though, WOW. It’s a remarkable feeling that makes bumps seem bearable and sitting down to the empty page again and again a near given. (Every one of you who posts reviews for books you enjoy, give yourself a big ol’ hug!)

I thought about sharing the worst and best reviews today, but Mr./Mrs. Erectile Dysfunction included spoilers. Instead I’ll share two of the most touching:

I was breathless from the first word I read!, January 28, 2013

This book touched my heart before I even turned the first page.

Ms. McLaughlin’s writing is elegant, gentle, subtle, and drew me into her story by the heart, stirring concern and compassion for her exquisitely vulnerable characters. She writes about pain without assault or brutality. Whereas the stories of many authors leave one feeling bruised and hurting, August evokes caring, tenderness and a deep empathy.

Of special note is the sensitivity with which she dealt with the dynamic of an eating disorder, bringing me into the experience in such a vulnerable way that I was allowed to live it, sharing the anguish of it, not just looking at it and “understanding” as an observer. This is not only incredible writing, but a gift to those who struggle with eating disorders, unable to find the words to describe their torment to a culture that cannot comprehend the “illogic” of their behavior. — Psychologist/Author, Jan Harrell

The other came via email from a woman who’s struggling with bulimia. With her permission, here is an excerpt:

I’ve read lots of books about eating disorders, but this is the first time I was like, “Yes. The author gets its.”  I gave it to my boyfriend to read. I think it’s helping him understand it, and me… Thanks for writing In Her Shadow. It gave me strength. I also had fun reading it, which is saying a lot. (It must be good to distract me from my freaking disease. :)) I hope you always keep writing. — J.

And here is the brand-spankin’ new back cover, by the ever-fabulous Steena Holmes:

IHS back

In celebration of my paperback release and in honor of J. and her courageous battle, I’ve decided to offer a fun little giveaway. To qualify, follow these two steps:

1. Pop over to Amazon between now and February 2nd—and order In Her Shadow.

2. Email me your purchase confirmation (august at augustmclaughlin dot com) and where you’d like your LOVE YOUR BODY affirmation magnet sent. Yep! Everyone who orders within the first two days can claim one.

Thanks so much for the continual support, all. It means more to me than healthy or sugary sweets ever could.

What’s your main writing motivation? Any funny/horrible or rave reviews of your work you’re up for sharing? What feedback or compliment has taken you by surprise?

28 Comments
by August McLaughlin on January 31, 2013  •  Permalink
Posted in Books, IN HER SHADOW, Publishing, Thriller / Suspense
Tagged , , , , , , , ,

Posted by August McLaughlin on January 31, 2013

https://augustmclaughlin.wordpress.com/2013/01/31/in-her-shadow-paperback-release-and-giveaway/

Lutefisk and Happy Hangovers: A Thrill-Fest Release Party Wrap Up

Have you ever partied so hard that the next day your head feels like a bowling ball and your energy, the pins it knocked down? I have, a few times. My last round was unlike any other, only partly because I spent the party home alone, sipping cyber cocktails. Who knew a virtual release party could be so A) fun B) laugh-inducing C) intoxicating or D) draining? Last Thursday’s IN HER SHADOW Thrill-Fest Release Party on Facebook was a rip roarin,’ lutefisk-lovin’ good time.

My non-virutal hangover was beyond worth it. Joy from the party carried over, and lingers still. THANK YOU, all who participated. Whether you were dancing your cyber-butt off with Concepción, gossiping behind my back with Mike and Janelle, feasting on virtual treats, playing trivia with trivia goddess Karina or simply lingering in the background, your positive vibes were felt, and means more to me than lutefisk is stinky.

A few highlights:

Before the party even started, early birds helped choose my outfit. Thank goodness they chose Cat Woman. I wasn't feeling the tundra look...

Before the party even started, early birds helped choose my outfit. Thank goodness they chose Cat Woman. I wasn’t feeling the tundra look…

One of my favorite blogging pals, Coleen, got the disco ball rolling—with her FEET!

One of my favorite blogging pals, Coleen, got the disco ball rolling—with her FEET!

Supper

After several rounds of snow-tinis, we feasted like thriller-loving Minne-snowtans…

Laughed until we cried, thanks to Lynn Kelley's fantastic review. (Way to "show, not tell," Lynn!)

…then laughed until we cried, thanks to Lynn Kelley. (Way to “show, not tell,” Lynn!)

And wrapped up the night with after dinner drinks and, uh, snow globes.

After loads of dancing, laughing, game playing and chit chat, we wrapped up with after dinner drinks and, uh, snow globes.

Last but not least, who could forget the randy pirate who promised to star in the film version one day, the book-pimping rappers or the...interesting sequel title coined by a Hollywood starlet? Not ringing a bell? Take a look at the video my friend, John Chang, helped me create. We hit the Hollywood streets with an iPad, iPhone, a Kindle and my eager, book-blabbering mouth:

Added thanks to all who entered the Thrill-Fest Giveaway raffle. The winners are…

IN HER SHADOW – signed copy + author interview: Jenny Hansen, Cora Reidenbach and Scott McAllister
FANGS OUT by David Freed – signed advance copy + author interview: Tim O’Brien
RUN TO THE GROUND by D.P. Lyle – signed copy + author interview: Andrea W. Hunt
A HUMAN ELEMENT by Donna Galanti – signed copy + author interview: Gloria Richard
INTO THE DARK by Stacy Green – signed copy + author interview: Ellis Shuman
LOST AND FOUND by Amy Shojai – signed copy + author interview: Kourtney Heintz
THE STRANGER IN THE ROOM by Amanda Kyle Williams – signed copy: Andrea W. Hunt
THE STRANGER YOU SEEK by Amanda Kyle Williams – signed copy: Lynn Kelley
IN HER SHADOW – signed book cover print: Kristine Parker—the trivia tackling queen!

Congrats, winners! Keep an eye out for an email from the author or me, standing in as his/her virtual assistant. 😉

For more party shenanigans, visit IN HER SHADOW Thrill-Fest Release Party on Facebook. I’ll leave it open until the paperback releases, by February 1st. Thanks again, all!

I’d love to hear from you. If you attended the party, what stood out most? What other virtual events have you enjoyed the heck out of? Any highlights from one you’ve thrown? How do you feel about lutefisk???

43 Comments
by August McLaughlin on January 17, 2013  •  Permalink
Posted in Authors, Books, Holiday, IN HER SHADOW, Life
Tagged , , , , ,

Posted by August McLaughlin on January 17, 2013

https://augustmclaughlin.wordpress.com/2013/01/17/from-lutefisk-to-happy-hangover-a-thrill-fest-release-party-wrap-up/

IN HER SHADOW Thrill-fest and Release Party!

When I finished the first draft of my novel, I called my mom, sniffling. “You should rest,” she said. “You just birthed a novel.”

baby book names

Yes, as a parent and poet, Mom gets it. I hesitate to draw many parenting/writing comparisons, not having kids myself. Judging from what others who do have shared, however, numerous parallels fit. “Birthing” a book is intense, exciting, gratifying, sometimes painstaking and frustrating work, all made more enjoyable, manageable and profound by the support of others. So I suppose I should now welcome you all to my “baby” shower. May the diaper games begin! 😉 Kidding. As bizarre fun as that sounds, I think we’ll venture elsewhere, starting with what matters most at this party: you all.

I can’t thank you all enough for joining me in my journey this past year-plus, in whatever capacity you have. I wish I could list everyone I’m grateful to by name, but that would be about as breezy to read as one of those “old fashioned” phone books. Here are the highlights:

I’m particularly grateful to my parents for never saying “don’t” and always saying “dream;” my husband, for reading nearly every word of my every draft and tolerating my maniacal writer-dom in ways even I sometimes can’t; my friend and mentor Mike Sirota, for running my pages through the Simon Cowel-like ringer and being there through days dark and bright; my agent John Rudolph for believing in me, thinking outside of the box and helping me become a stronger writer; digital publishing manager Yassine Belkacemi for uploads, formatting and fielding my endless questions with considerable patience; Steena Holmes for her beautiful work on my cover and tireless support; and my furry and feathered office pals, Zoe and Wombley, whose animal-love I thrive on.

To my blogging friends, the WANA crowd and Jedi master Kristen Lamb, fabulous folks I’ve met through Bouchercon, ThrillerFest and the Southern California Writers Conference and friends I’ve fallen in writer-love with through words and pages, THANK YOU. I hope you know you’re like permanently implanted in my heart. 😉

Now for the FUN STUFF!

I’m stoked and honored to invite you all to the IN HER SHADOW Thrill-Fest Giveaway raffle. Some of my favorite thriller authors have joined in by offering up some spectacular prizes. Up for grabs include signed books by Amanda Kyle Williams, David Freed, DP Lyle, Donna Galanti, Stacy Green and Amy Shojai. I’ll be giving away three copies IN HER SHADOW, hot off the presses in a couple of weeks, each accompanied by an interview with me.

A lowdown of the prizes:

Each prize includes a signed book and, in most cases, an interview with the author. The interviews may be conducted by phone, Skype or email and, potentially, shared on your blog or website. You can also gift your prize to a thriller-loving or “writerly” friend. The interview details will be worked out via email, based on the author’s preference and what works for you, at the raffle’s end. Check out these tantalizing covers:


raffle books

How to enter:

Hop over to the GIVEAWAY tab on my Facebook page, using this link. The raffle widget will guide you through a variety of simple ways to support participating books and authors. While not necessary for the raffle, I hope that when you visit the authors’ Amazon pages, you’ll click that little “like” button if you indeed like what you see. You can also gain raffle points by commenting on this post. (See below.)

The raffle ends this Saturday, January 12th at midnight. You can utilize every raffle option once daily, today through Saturday, for a maximum of 50 raffle points per day. Not too shabby, right?

For even MORE fun, join me and my friend Karina, the Goddess of Terrifying Trivia, tonight for a virtual launch party on Facebook. We’ll be giving out more prizes and having a heck of a lot of goofy, thriller-related fun. The party goes from 5pm to 9pm PST, and you’re welcome to pop by for a virtual drink or linger all party long. You can also join us on Twitter: #InHerShadow. For further details, visit:

IN HER SHADOW Thrill-Fest Launch Party on Facebook

In Her Shadow - Finalx2

I hope to see you there! So much love and gratitude,

August ♥

*Using the following prompt, post a comment below between today and Saturday for another chance to win. I’ll give 10 extra points for the most creative comment. Ready…set…GO!

How is writing like or unlike childbirth or parenthood?

66 Comments
by August McLaughlin on January 10, 2013  •  Permalink
Posted in Authors, Books, Thriller / Suspense
Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Posted by August McLaughlin on January 10, 2013

https://augustmclaughlin.wordpress.com/2013/01/10/in-her-shadow-thrill-fest-and-release-party/

My Birthmas Wish and E-Release NEWS!

Dreams shouldn’t have ceilings. Lucky for me, my parents never imposed them.

Some things haven't changed since I was 6.

Some things haven’t changed since I was 6.

This Sunday marks my 34th birthday—birthmas, as I like to call it. Each year for as long as I can remember, I’ve asked myself whether I’ve earned the numerical upgrade. If I’ve prodded further toward my dreams, the answer is yes, this year being no exception. With the release of my first novel underway, I’m feeling exceptionally grateful, particularly since a few months ago, publishing seemed far off.

When I was deciding whether to go the indie-with-an-agent publishing route, my dear friend Bill posted a blog comment that struck me straight in the heart:

Remember the big benefit concert you and your band mate put on, oh, 16 years ago, with a bunch of different local bands? I remember it because that was the first time, out of very many, that I was like, “holy ****, this person is my age, and she decides she wants to do things and just goes out and…like…DOES them!” So, yeah. I don’t know whether I could ever have the willpower or drive to do everything a self-publisher needs to do, and I know for a fact that most people don’t, but I’m pretty sure you’ll rock it in your usual way.

While I was already leaning heavily toward self-publishing, Bill reminded me of a vow I made at the ripe young age of 15. My mother was enduring a brutal battle with depression related to horrific abuse she experienced as a child. A friend in my church’s youth group had been kicked down the stairs by her abusive mother. And my best friend, Kellie, and I had recently learned to play guitar.

These events collided when Kellie and I took a dream I’d had about a song called Matarrah Taray as a sign. The otherwise nonexistent phrase quickly became a real song, the names of our beater guitars (mine Matarrah, hers Taray) and the title of a regional benefit concert to spread awareness regarding child abuse.

Matarah

Matarrah

Many people deemed our mission sweet, but unrealistic. Fueled up with others’ skepticism and passion for the cause, we worked harder, producing press kits, a pasta charity dinner and local coffee house gigs featuring none-other-than us, while talking non-stop about all of it. Gradually, people started paying attention, and no longer in “That’s so cute!” type ways. We were featured in the morning news, a PBS documentary and the Minneapolis Star Tribune, and sang the national anthem at a Minnesota Twins game dedicated to non-violence. Matarrah Taray became a two-year anti-child abuse campaign, culminating in a 16-band concert. In 1996, Kellie and I were awarded the Minnesota Peace Prize for our efforts.

You know what strikes me the most about the experience to this day? The vast number of people who described our “youthful” enthusiasm and belief that anything’s possible, notions they seemed to believe that everyone inevitably outgrows. At one point, I borderline scolded a reporter for referencing our “childlike fervor.” We’ll NEVER stop believing, I told her. Ever. Growing up doesn’t necessitate settling for non-starry skies. I still believe that.

While the accolades were lovely and we raised valuable funds and awareness for a worthy cause, Kellie and I benefitted most. Of the lessons I learned, my favorites still apply today:

  • Genuine goals and dreams are never foolish.
  • Goals and dreams are only meaningless if we withhold them.
  • People will listen (and stuff happens) if we speak up loudly and long enough.
  • Passion trumps know-how, though both are important.
  • Support and skepticism can function as high-grade fuel.
  • Music and words can change the world, if not the whole world, someone’s.
  • There’s no point in stopping dreaming and endless promise in keeping on.

Creating fiction, poetry, music, performance or visual art when our hearts say DO is among the most admirable and important work anyone can accomplish. Publishing our work traditionally or independently when our hearts say DO can turn “childlike” dreams into reality. Dreams are only meaningless when we withhold them.

My birthmas wish is that all of you reading this will take a step toward your wildest dreams. Step into your authentic self and do something awesome. (If you report back later, I’ll bake you a healthy cake.)

I’d also like to extend special thanks to my friends, family, mentors and readers for helping my most recent dream come true. My first novel hit the e-shelves this week! Talk about surreal…

If you’d like to purchase or otherwise support In Her Shadow by sharing links or “liking,” visit:

In Her Shadow on Amazon.com (Kindle version)
August McLaughlin on Amazon.com (my author page)
In Her Shadow on GoodReads

Thanks in advance for any support. ♥ If I can cheer you and your ventures on, please let me know.

***My official release, including the paperback, will take place in January. We’re going to party hardy!***

I’d LOVE to hear from you. What dream are you striving for? If you have trouble conjuring an answer, complete one of the following sentences: If I weren’t afraid (or alternate negative adjective), I would ______________________. If I could take a magic wand to my life, I would _______________________. What extra dream-seeking step are you willing to take? If still nothing pops to mind, I hope you’ll stay open to the possibilities.

65 Comments
by August McLaughlin on December 20, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Books, Life, Publishing, Writing
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Posted by August McLaughlin on December 20, 2012

https://augustmclaughlin.wordpress.com/2012/12/20/my-birthmas-wish-and-e-release-news/

Love Your Book? Choose A Great Cover

“Writing a novel… Now THAT’s hard,” my friend Phil said to me recently.

Phil is a neurologist. He’s brilliant enough to understand the inner-workings of the brain and that carving a creative path isn’t easy. To those of us who adore the process, however, it’s worth every brain cell and glucose molecule required.

Brains = Beauty

As many of you know, LOVE has been a theme in my life lately. Deciding to self-publish and related happenings have left me punch-drunk exhilarated. Thanks to Steena Holmes, indie author and graphic/book artist extraordinnaire, my latest heart swell derived from developing my cover—one of the most valuable ways we authors have of showing our work some love.

Having complete control over book covers is a huge benefit of self-publishing. It’s also one of the most important factors separating successful indie-authors and those whose books scarcely see the light of day.

The biggest giveaway that one is dealing with a self-published book is a poorly designed cover, says thriller author and executive editor of CNET David Carnoy, which is too often the case. Traditionally published books with ineffective covers also do poorly. Whether we like it or not, it’s human nature to judge books by their covers.

“Studies show that you have 12 seconds—in a bookstore—to turn a browser into a buyer… Covers are the way that we attract buyers.” — Midwest Book Review

Imagine how much more significant book covers are online, where we can view ten, twenty or more at once.

Choices, choices…

Stories we put our hearts, minds, souls and sweat into should appear as valuable as they are. Because my graphic “art” skills are limited to making 🙂 faces, coloring text and cropping photos, I knew that my cover decision would require serious research and expert insight. Here’s a handful of tips I learned in the process.

7 Tips for Choosing a Great Cover

1. Sit in your story. Close your eyes and think of your book without judgment. If you’re like me, an image (or images) and mood will surface. I carried this habit over from acting to writing, and most recently to choosing my cover.

2. Browse many covers. Go to Google images, Amazon or Barnes and Noble and peruse covers in your genre. Which ones stand out? Turn you off? Which would you buy? It can be tough to convey all we desire to a designer. Having an example can help us formulate our vision and relay it to others.

3. Hire someone awesome! If you’re artistically inclined, you may not want or need help. Otherwise, a fantastic, experienced designer can help ensure cover-creating success. If my book were a Christmas tree, Steena Holmes added lights and a star.

4. Make sure it looks fabulous small. With readers buying continually more books via iPads, smart phones and e-readers, it only makes sense that our covers look sharp as thumbnails.

5. Avoid clutter. Using one main image, not cluttering up the background and using readable, pleasing-to-the-eye font can help accomplish number four. And let’s face it. Clutter is generally unappealing. (Yeah, that funky bed I suggested Steena add? Not so much.)

6. Seek input from qualified others. I asked trusted friends and professionals who are familiar with my novel for their thoughts on my cover along the way. Sharing our covers with the masses too soon could confuse, frustrate or lead us astray. Agents, publishers, artists and experienced authors make valuable choices.

7. Go with your gut. While others’ opinions can help tremendously, choosing a cover that pleases others but doesn’t sit well with us isn’t wise. As with all aspects of writing, I believe that our instincts know best. Like deciding on Mr./Mrs. Right, you “just know.”

When I saw this rendition, the little voice at the back of my head yelped, YES! I’m delighted with it, and hope my readers will be too.

IN HER SHADOW will pre-release in December and officially release in January. I can’t WAIT to share the fun with you all. 🙂

Steena has a brand spankin’ new book, Dear Jack… A Finding Emma Novella, out TODAY! I’m eager to read the heart-wrenching, hope-filled story, told through love letters. I hope you’ll check it out, too.

What book covers resonate with you? Any design tips to add? Experiences to share? I love hearing from you. ♥

51 Comments
by August McLaughlin on November 15, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Art, Books, Publishing, Thriller / Suspense, Writing
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Posted by August McLaughlin on November 15, 2012

https://augustmclaughlin.wordpress.com/2012/11/15/love-your-book-choose-a-great-cover/