tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50139502640064597672011-11-05T08:41:25.369-04:00Thrilling police stories on the streets of Chicago!John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.comBlogger1291100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-71630525982996047602011-11-05T08:41:00.001-04:002011-11-05T08:41:25.471-04:00

Congressmen accept bribes?http://ping.fm/2nqcW

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-66211081708921396122011-08-21T09:27:00.001-04:002011-08-21T09:27:16.107-04:00

My thriller: TARGETED selling strong on Kindle! http://ping.fm/iGOu5

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-85638346275190717142011-07-29T16:17:00.000-04:002011-07-29T16:17:15.913-04:00

No reason to be unpublished. Amazon now has singles, see it here: Kindle singles.  Get your short stories together and submit one or two!

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-78159457564455222352011-07-28T05:11:00.001-04:002011-07-28T05:12:29.723-04:00

It's sad to see the giant book store chain, Borders, go under. I was a big Borders fan, particularly after I held my first book signing there and saw my books on their shelves. Their coffee shop was the site for many informative critique sessions that helped launch my novel writing career. But as Borders goes about the business of liquidating their assets, they are ripping off their loyal

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-86939206253921438972011-07-21T17:47:00.001-04:002011-07-21T17:47:55.252-04:00

Worked most of the day on a technical manual, Yikes!

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-2594635264487624762011-07-19T09:23:00.000-04:002011-07-19T09:23:05.126-04:00

What we all feared has materialized: Borders will close forever. This hits our own little critique group particularly hard. Hopefully, we can regroup and find a suitable location. Read the story here: Borders Closing.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-49696703520508914122011-07-18T12:18:00.001-04:002011-07-18T12:19:37.382-04:00

I'm flying home from Vegas today where I attended the Public Safety Writers Assoc Convention. My trip was fruitful, in that I delivered a well-received presentation on the subject of "Developing Undercover Characters for Your Mystery/Thriller." I also won seven various awards for writing; but the First Place award for fiction novel (TARGETED) is the one I most cherish. I met a multi-talented

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-31643587515264680392011-07-02T19:28:00.001-04:002011-07-02T19:29:47.940-04:00

I just finished my review of Inmate 1577 by Alan Jacobson for the New York Journal of Books.  I was thoroughly intrigued by his level of research and character development. Read the review and decide for yourself if you want to read it. I highly recommend it, particularly for thriller/mystery writers.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-45443556070366343632011-06-30T08:41:00.001-04:002011-06-30T08:41:27.225-04:00

A Catholic priest on the run from Chicago cops. Only $3.99 on Kindle! http://ping.fm/NiJrh

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-39430008468851310032011-06-23T23:50:00.001-04:002011-06-23T23:50:45.099-04:00

Cops murdered on the streets of Chicago: Targeted only $3.99 Kindle http://ping.fm/ovmIZ

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-13261497605833974112011-06-21T10:18:00.001-04:002011-06-21T10:18:41.273-04:00

Find my reviews here on the New York Journal of Books http://ping.fm/0xN1m

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-9793370114760552852011-06-13T08:24:00.000-04:002011-06-13T08:24:43.040-04:00

Writers are often asked about the process of writing their book(s). Questions regarding the plot, characters, length, and ending are always topics for discussion. And just as there are authors who write with different styles, so also are there varying ideas on how to organize or plan a book. A successful writer, John Connolly, said this:  "Again, every writer is different. The two most extreme

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-87431533663432383612011-05-31T15:55:00.000-04:002011-05-31T15:55:46.891-04:00

The recent Book Expo in New York confirmed what many have been thinking: digital books are dominating the publishing world.  Indy authors are in control, publishers are not. You can publish everything from a short story to a novel on Amazon--by yourself. And there's a new company, BookBaby that will convert your manuscript straight to ePub and mobi which are the formats that allow ebooks to 

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-23513967543591846212011-05-17T18:36:00.001-04:002011-05-17T18:36:54.457-04:00

Now just $3.99: http://ping.fm/4yBgB

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-60789991544383277672011-04-21T14:46:00.000-04:002011-04-21T14:46:12.653-04:00

I've been following this whole eBook phenomena, particularly since I have four eBooks for sale. It seems to be a money making proposition and a viable option for anyone who wants people to read their work. Here's a link to an author who sells for .99 http://thewritersguidetoepublishing.com/welcome-to-the-wg2e-john-locke and makes his money by the sheer volume of sales. (Recall my past post in

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-6694774213711131332011-04-14T16:21:00.000-04:002011-04-14T16:21:21.053-04:00

Here's a great site that allows those of you who have Kindles or Kindle apps for your iPhone, iPad, or computer (all Kindle apps are free). Follow this link: http://www.ereaderiq.com/ to choose from hundreds of titles, or use the site to follow price drops. This is an excellent tool for those of you on a tight budget and/or those who just love to read.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-40120707553038035982011-04-09T12:32:00.000-04:002011-04-09T12:32:00.184-04:00

I had a short story accepted by this new online magazine that debuts next month (May). Hippocampus Magazine is creative non-fiction site that also seeks submissions for memoirs, interviews, personal essays, etc. According to their website, "Hippocampus Magazine is an exclusively online publication set out to entertain, educate and engage writers and readers of creative non-fiction. Each monthly

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-54595446905012637022011-04-09T09:21:00.001-04:002011-04-09T09:21:22.372-04:00

Monthly meeting of the Riverside Writers today at Salem Church Library.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-72975871072397809862011-04-06T09:06:00.000-04:002011-04-06T09:06:32.808-04:00

Electronic publishing, e-books, e-readers, are things we used to think were anomalies--something only a very few utilized. All that has changed and writers and readers are drifting toward electronic everything. How many rejection letters to agents or publishers does it take before one throws up their hands? That will vary with each individual, but even those who have been published in the

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-91033201183812732282011-04-01T14:02:00.000-04:002011-04-01T14:02:46.770-04:00

Award-winning author and friend, Dan Walsh, just told me his historical/romantic/Christian novel, The Homecoming, will be free for Kindle owners the entire month of April! It's a fantastic read, check it out here: http://www.amazon.com/Homecoming-The-A-Novel-ebook/dp/B003EQ4KXA/ref=sr_1_2_title_1_ke?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1301680513&sr=1-2

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-5754979129694740672011-04-01T12:48:00.000-04:002011-04-01T12:48:57.507-04:00

ITW is a great organization to belong to if you are a fan of thrillers or like to write them. I've been a member for several years and the membership has enabled me to meet other writers who write in the same genre. This month features a very nice piece on my latest novel and my writing. Here's the link: http://www.thebigthrill.org/2011/03/targeted-by-john-m-wills/

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-36130920555888992062011-03-31T20:16:00.001-04:002011-03-31T20:18:35.095-04:00

Thankful to have appeared in my hometown newspaper. Here's the link: Ex-Chicago Cop faithful in fiction.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-52234353450719783672011-03-25T08:34:00.000-04:002011-03-25T08:34:36.975-04:00

Want to do some freelance work? AssociatedContent.com, pays contributors from $3 - $30 (including $1.50 for every 1,000 page views) for articles that cover everything from gardening to tech innovations. You can also browse their library for more than 2 million articles, videos, and images published by contributors.  Check it out.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-32230664310894347992011-03-24T10:09:00.000-04:002011-03-24T10:09:39.405-04:00

Thursday, March 24, 2011Book Review: Targeted Targeted, a Christian thriller by John M. Wills, is the third in the Chicago Warrior Thriller series. It weaves together two different threads. Here is the cover blurb: A sniper is targeting and killing cops in Chicago, leaving no clues or witnesses. Detectives Marilyn Benson and Pete Shannon are on the task force charged with capturing this serial

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-29870855376858776912011-03-21T09:48:00.000-04:002011-03-21T09:48:35.758-04:00

Tune in on your laptop this Thursday night @ 10pm. I'll be joined on The Cop Doc Show by two other authors who are former law enforcement. Here's the link: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/the-cop-doc/2011/03/25/thecopdoc-cops-turned-authors

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-77375655512389818672011-03-17T15:11:00.000-04:002011-03-17T15:11:48.523-04:00

I've blogged in the past about the surge in ebook sales. Now, according to Publishers Weekly, the trend continues as they report ebook sales jumped 115%. Read more . . . Why not grab this wave and get your work out there?

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-81039108293642262652011-03-14T08:18:00.000-04:002011-03-14T08:18:07.989-04:00

How do you define yourself, is being a writer part of, or the sum of who you are? Do you have a clear understanding of what the term, writer, means? I explore that topic as a guest on Mark Young's blog today. Please click on the link and check it out: http://hookembookem.blogspot.com/

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-3035280776627990672011-03-10T15:23:00.001-05:002011-03-10T15:23:03.309-05:00

Finished writing a review for New Journal of Books, now on to an article for OdotCom.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-56933180775046216402011-03-06T11:32:00.000-05:002011-03-06T11:32:51.323-05:00

In my opinion there is nothing more rewarding for a writer than opening that box delivered by UPS and seeing your first or latest novel. To actually hold your work in your hand, see the cover and read the text, is gratifying beyond belief. Fast forward to 2011--that tangible representation of your work may not be practical or even  profitable. Big brick and mortar book stores, e.g., Borders, are

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-70777102649097011192011-02-28T07:13:00.000-05:002011-02-28T07:13:01.789-05:00

Amazon has made it possible for Kindle users to borrow eBooks. If you would like to share a book with a friend, you may now do that. Find the details here: Lending eBooks.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-27102982079666871162011-02-21T13:27:00.000-05:002011-02-21T13:27:31.901-05:00

Below you will find a listing of writing contests that are open to all writers. Hopefully one will grab your attention; good luck: Original posting courtesy of Daily Writing Tips. 25 Writing Competitions You Should EnterHave you completed one or more short stories, poems, or nonfiction pieces? Perhaps you’d like some motivation — or to take the next step with them. This post lists

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-80050207744139375862011-02-08T17:17:00.003-05:002011-02-08T17:25:30.497-05:00

For any of you on the fence about buying an eReader, the following may be just the nudge you need to send you to the electronics store. According to eBookNewser, "Kindle owners like cheap eBooks. According to Amazon’s Top 100 Paid list, 7 of the Top 10 titles cost $5 or less. The No. 1 title, Alone by Lisa Gardner is $.99, the No. 3 title is $.99 Switched (Trylle Trilogy, Book 1) by Amanda

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-66964928243345408062011-02-03T16:48:00.004-05:002011-02-03T17:06:56.639-05:00

Positioning your book is critical. Where does your book fit in? Whose books are similar to yours? Once you've determined the proper genre and sub-genre,consider contacting one of the authors whose work is similar to yours and ask them for a blurb. (Blurbs benefit both parties.) Where would the book be shelved at the book store? What kind of cover might best signal your position? What kind of

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-45844853069226480832011-01-30T15:59:00.003-05:002011-01-30T16:05:42.577-05:00

As a way of giving back to my community, I recently donated a case of books to my local police department. I met with Chaplain Paul Peterson of the Fredericksburg PD in Virginia, who accepted the daily devotionals on behalf of the men and women of the FPD. Cops On The Street, is a unique devotional in that each day features a story written by men and women in law enforcement. Grant Wolf, a police

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-66675007617774417232011-01-26T08:27:00.003-05:002011-01-26T08:36:08.813-05:00

Interjections help the writer convey many moods. For example: ha-ha, connotes mirth or laughter, while ahem, is used to grab attention. These small but powerful interjections add spice and life to your prose and are sometimes, poof, magical. Here's a link, courtesy of DailyWritingTips, to 100 little gems that should help you express your characters' moods and feelings: Daily Writing Tips.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-33870835117667311462011-01-23T16:20:00.002-05:002011-01-23T16:24:37.087-05:00

This post comes courtesy of Erin Brenner's website, The Writing Resource:Some people get excited when their team wins the playoffs. Others are ecstatic when their candidate wins the general election. With word geeks, it’s when a favorite word makes a Word of the Year list. This week we examine some of the most popular word lists (one is a banish word list, so I guess you’re glad if your word

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-45848776919570537932011-01-15T11:27:00.003-05:002011-01-15T11:34:45.180-05:00

Here are ten things that bestselling authors have in common. For a more detailed explanation of each point, click on this link: The Authors, Brian Hill and Dee Power.Perseverance is key.They write, and write, and write, and write . . .They like to write, and write, and write.Promotion is constant.Marketing is an important factor.Fans are an important asset.The More Success, The More Pressure.They

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-18462319369038208902011-01-12T08:08:00.002-05:002011-01-12T08:10:31.072-05:00

The Sisters in Crime-commissioned 47-page report on the book selection habits of the mystery book buyer can be found online here. The study, titled “The Mystery Book Consumer in the Digital Age, is the first of its kind to provide an overview of the mystery/crime fiction book-buying landscape, with information on who buys mystery books, where they buy them, what they buy and why they make

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-45312072927118684452011-01-08T13:16:00.004-05:002011-01-08T13:25:07.282-05:00

I know what your argument is: it costs money to hire an editor. Yes, it does, and why shouldn't it? Do you expect to get paid for your work when your book is published? Of course. The problem is if you don't present your best-looking manuscript to publishers, expect rejection letters as a consequence. I came across an excellent article about this very topic: Why Fiction and Nonfiction Writers

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-86724167300771736102011-01-08T09:06:00.001-05:002011-01-08T09:06:54.426-05:00

Heading to a critique session on a snowy Saturday morning. Are all writers somewhat odd?

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-65608937358303749532011-01-07T11:29:00.001-05:002011-01-07T11:29:51.358-05:00

I will be speaking to a group of young writers today at Spotsylvania High School in Virginia.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-30775757425121335602011-01-06T08:22:00.001-05:002011-01-06T08:22:35.702-05:00

For those who got Kindles for Christmas, read a Chicago thriller: http://ping.fm/ffpif

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-35827375242535257012011-01-06T08:21:00.001-05:002011-01-06T08:21:20.919-05:00

Ahttp://ping.fm/3Exdy thriller on the streets of Chicago: Gripped By Fear

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-69098379113413158692011-01-01T08:33:00.003-05:002011-01-01T08:38:23.782-05:00

Happy New Year! We are inundated with lists of every type at this time of year. Most of them are rather boring and meaningless, but here's a list of the best writing tips that you may find helpful as you work on your novel, short story, poem, or wherever your muse nudges you.The Best of Daily Writing Tips in 2010.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-6160929128403698702010-12-29T08:14:00.004-05:002010-12-29T08:18:24.910-05:00

I sometimes have problems with the title of articles I write for publications. Should I capitalize each word in the title, or use lower case for prepositions only? The answer can be found in today's posting at: Daily Writing Tips.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-35971952073073912822010-12-28T15:53:00.004-05:002010-12-28T15:59:41.422-05:00

For more than a year now I have been writing book reviews for the NYJB. They are seeking more reviewers. If you are interested please read the information below. NEW YORK JOURNAL OF BOOKS, adding reviewers with your expertise. Aim to become premier source—bar none—for professional, respected book reviews. Recently profiled in Publishers Weekly. (nyjb.net) NYJB has recently been profiled by

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-73134454468472830722010-12-14T07:57:00.001-05:002010-12-14T07:57:59.884-05:00

Win Philip Carlo's last book he wrote before he died, The Killer Within. http://ping.fm/k9oDS

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-50342990575256681002010-12-12T16:19:00.001-05:002010-12-12T16:19:56.105-05:00

I head the list of endorsements for this great new book! http://ping.fm/3wXYK

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-10023865355793386222010-12-11T12:01:00.004-05:002010-12-11T12:06:22.110-05:00

A BOOK GIVEAWAY YOU CAN'T REFUSE. PHILIP CARLO'S LAST THRILLER "THE KILLER WITHIN" -- ENTER TO WINNYJB has published the first authorized in depth review of this book, a month ahead of release in early January 2011. John Wills, in a poignant review praises both Philip Carlo's body of work and final book, published posthumously. "He was shot in the head during a gang fight when he was only 15

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-74595905887444627022010-12-09T08:16:00.001-05:002010-12-09T08:16:22.815-05:00

Short story competition here: http://ping.fm/rp0kQ

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-50966184878248922472010-12-09T07:55:00.006-05:002010-12-09T08:10:58.578-05:00

It's the Christmas season, a time when our hearts gravitate toward people we cherish, and yes, even the pets we love. Some of our pets we've lost. If you had a pet that was like a member of the family (I did), why not share that love and write a short story? Authonomy, a division of HarperCollins, is sponsoring a short story competition. All you need to do is write a short story (up to 1500 words

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-74204605624815060172010-12-07T15:52:00.001-05:002010-12-07T15:52:37.962-05:00

Register at www.peroozal.com to get ITW’s Watchlist free. Written by 22 authors incl Jeffrey Deaver, Lee Child, Lisa Scottoline +more

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-78391278362057281412010-12-02T19:09:00.004-05:002010-12-02T19:14:50.892-05:00

A recent review I wrote for the New York Journal of Books regarding Philip Carlo's last book (he passed away last month) has made it to the popular website: JacketFlap. It's interesting, since the book will not be released until January 6th, 2011. However, Carlo was a best-selling author whose books will probably make the big screen. One is in production now. Read the review here: http://

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-69101328292779795402010-12-02T08:34:00.003-05:002010-12-02T08:38:26.608-05:00

Just in time for the holidays--it is now possible to give Kindle books as gifts. Frequently Asked Questions about Giving Kindle Books• Do I have to own a Kindle to give or receive a Kindle book as a gift? No. Kindle books can be given and received by anyone with an e-mail address. Kindle books can be read either on Kindle or on your PC, Mac, iPhone, iPad, BlackBerry, or Android Phone using one

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-56473207078830416572010-11-24T08:44:00.002-05:002010-11-24T08:54:41.322-05:00

Getting published is a struggle. Negotiating the intricacies and idiosyncrasies of the publishing world can be a nightmare. If you've all but given up on getting your work into the hands of readers, allow me to offer an alternative--self publish through Kindle (I have just purchased my second Kindle). It's a relatively simple process through Amazon. The link at the end of this post will explain

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-85319882050970386512010-11-19T16:37:00.003-05:002010-11-19T16:44:07.569-05:00

Amazon has introduced a new way to give the gift of books (just in time for Christmas). It is now possible to purchase an eBook title on Amazon and have it delivered electronically to anyone with an email address. Check it out here: http://www.mediabistro.com/ebooknewser/amazon-introduces-kindle-book-giving_b3710

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-88183726698649049642010-11-15T12:16:00.004-05:002010-11-15T12:20:33.297-05:00

For those of you with Kindle readers, or if you have the free Kindle App for your iPhone, you can download a free book: Writing Fiction For Dummies. Here's the link to get you started: http://www.amazon.com/Writing-Fiction-For-Dummies-ebook/dp/B002XGICAOEnjoy!

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-91981377039367589742010-11-02T07:55:00.003-04:002010-11-02T08:02:39.587-04:00

I travel a lot, maybe too much. One thing I'm noticing each time I fly, is that more people are reading books with eReaders--Kindles, Nooks, Sony--people like the convenience of using this technology. If you have a book that you've had published, either with a publisher or published yourself, you should get it on Amazon's Kindle Reader. It's a great way to get your work out to people who are not

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-16824453238035845352010-10-28T16:07:00.004-04:002010-10-28T16:22:00.506-04:00

I'm posting a link to an article by Kris Saknussemm, one that I think is concise and helpful regarding how to avoid Total Disaster as a Novelist. I'll leave the meat and potatoes for you to read for yourself, but two important things I gleaned from the article are: Don't Experiment. Check to see what section your novel will be found in the bookstore, what author your work resembles, and be able

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-54742705727281992382010-10-12T19:06:00.004-04:002010-10-12T19:14:46.633-04:00

I've employed a new editor, Adele Brinkley. She just returned the manuscript for my third novel, Targeted, and I am extremely pleased with her work. She is thorough and efficient. Moreover, her fee is very reasonable. I highly recommend her work for those of you who have the need for an editor to review your novel, query letter, etc. If you're interested, contact her through her website: With Pen

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-12504757747992772532010-10-06T05:05:00.003-04:002010-10-06T05:10:55.266-04:00

I'm linking to an article written by an editor who addresses a couple of important topics concerning writers who run into a wall halfway through their work. She also addresses the difference between manuscripts that are written to sell versus those written to read. I hope you enjoy this piece: http://ramonadef.wordpress.com/2010/10/04/first-draft-teachers-edition-interview/(Image by Stik)

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-51138167905958654772010-09-29T12:12:00.004-04:002010-09-29T12:17:56.768-04:00

As part of its Battlefields & Blessings series, AMG will release Cops On The Street this fall. I have several stories in this wonderful collection of true stories."It's a groundbreaking devotional book that demonstrates the vital difference men and women of faith make in law enforcement. As this is a date-specific daily devotional, stories that relate to a specific date or event (9/11/2001,

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-7255731750814728882010-09-24T10:38:00.001-04:002010-09-24T10:38:54.596-04:00

Today I'm a guest on author, Susan Whitfield's blog. Check it out here: http://ping.fm/E9n7o

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-71494310205339012192010-09-21T11:05:00.001-04:002010-09-21T11:05:10.133-04:00

Check out my review on the New York Journal of Books: Stalling for Time, My Life as a FBI Hostage Negotiator. http://ping.fm/rJ0L6

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-27867964371257510022010-09-17T11:02:00.003-04:002010-09-17T11:09:10.645-04:00

A question was raised at Saturday's Riverside Writers meeting regarding word count; what constitutes a novel? Here are some guidelines:Novel over 50,000Novella 20,000 to 50,000Novelette 7,500 to 20,000Short story 1,000 to 7,500Flash fiction or vignette under 1,000

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-19542923423590259602010-09-16T14:50:00.004-04:002010-09-16T15:17:13.090-04:00

Writing, either to earn a living, or done as a hobby, or even a combination of both, is a worthy endeavor. Writers are super people; I've yet to meet a writer I didn't like. We are like most creative people in that we want to share our work with others. To do that, we have to establish ourselves as "writers." One way to do that is to become a book reviewer.Writing reviews of other peoples' work

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-65660435460333382462010-09-09T11:23:00.004-04:002010-09-09T11:34:21.960-04:00

Publishers Weekly now includes a quarterly supplement that will announce self-published titles and even review those they deem worthy of review. PW recognizes POD, DIY, author-financed, vanity fare, self-publishing--whatever you care to call it--as a burgeoning industry they can no longer ignore. The only caveat: the issue will cost $149.00; a processing fee which registers the titles online.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-79441337264620711922010-09-08T13:20:00.002-04:002010-09-08T13:33:46.702-04:00

Finally, some good news for a change. Barnes & Noble has announced it expects an outstanding title selection for fall 2010 in both fiction and non-fiction with strong titles ranging from thrillers, paranormal romance and mystery, to political memoirs, historical biographies and a strong line up in teen and young adult titles.Thrillers dominate with The Confession, the first fall legal thriller

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-75048722411131358512010-09-06T11:01:00.003-04:002010-09-06T11:04:16.439-04:00

You may find my September article on Officer.com interesting, not only for the pragmatic tools discussed, but if you write fiction your characters can use these methods of detection as well. Find it here: Can You Spot A Lie?

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-18889713225785123142010-09-01T08:25:00.003-04:002010-09-01T08:29:22.011-04:00

Many of us have some ambiguity regarding capitalization of titles and people. Here's a great thumbnail sketch which makes it clear when to capitalize or not. http://www.dailywritingtips.com/capitalizing-titles-of-people-and-groups/

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-72672791618997444962010-08-22T17:15:00.005-04:002010-08-22T18:14:25.849-04:00

I've begun a new project, a collection of true stories about women in law enforcement. The working title is Warriors in High Heels, Real Stories about Real Women. I'm looking for female law enforcement officers (FLEOs) who want to share their experiences: funny incidents, strange or oddball stories, tragedies, human emotion-filled happenings, each one written by the woman involved--told in her

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-86545969006986444272010-08-20T08:26:00.004-04:002010-08-20T08:31:39.521-04:00

Having just had the results posted from our own Golden Nib competition, perhaps some of you still hunger for more. If that's the case, here's a link to a bushel of contests including poetry, fiction and non-fiction. http://www.freelancewriting.com/writing-contests.php Write on!

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-12618944429477914332010-08-17T10:29:00.003-04:002010-08-17T10:35:34.263-04:00

For those of us who are experienced citizens, here are some rather astounding predictions made by Beloit College in Wisconsin:"The class of 2014 has never found Korean-made cars unusual on the Interstate and five hundred cable channels, of which they will watch a handful, have always been the norm. Since "digital" has always been in the cultural DNA, they've never written in cursive and with cell

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-48376735902365035742010-08-13T08:00:00.003-04:002010-08-13T08:05:32.704-04:00

For those of you with digital readers or laptops, Project Gutenberg has announced their stated intention of making a billion books available online--FREE! Check it out here: Project Gutenberg.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-42952524174091561372010-08-05T09:05:00.004-04:002010-08-05T09:13:33.656-04:00

Today's post is from: http://writeforyourlife.net/ Helpful information on giving and receiving critique.Critiquing etiquette: six ways to provide gracious feedback Receiving feedback is difficult. But giving feedback with grace is even more so. To grow and evolve as a writer you must offer your work to others for critique and editing. It’s one of those terrible truths

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-59162448566282712862010-08-04T07:38:00.004-04:002010-08-04T08:06:13.744-04:00

A few days ago I finished writing, Targeted, the third novel in the Chicago Warrior Thriller Series. Whew. It's a great feeling to have completed the story, but the reality is there is still much to be done before turning it over to my editor. The fact that I shared many of the chapters with my critique group was helpful. Non-biased eyes are exactly what I needed to point out weaknesses,

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-50901272949362106622010-08-02T15:59:00.001-04:002010-08-02T15:59:31.904-04:00

Riverside Writers critique group meeting tonight at Borders Books. http://ping.fm/n7qM1

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-81604964803087736302010-07-27T07:38:00.001-04:002010-07-27T07:38:02.756-04:00

Today I interview professional editor, Adele Brinkley, who has been editing for 30 years: http://ping.fm/3TUUj

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-2552804427372764252010-07-27T07:26:00.004-04:002010-07-27T07:33:09.796-04:00

JW: Today my guest is Adele Brinkley, a professional editor who can edit anyone’s work ranging from letters to novels and short stories. Good morning, Adele! Adele: Morning, John. Thank you for an opportunity to promote my editing service, With Pen In Hand. JW: Tell us a little bit about your background and qualifications to be an editor. Adele: I’ve been a professional editor for nine

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-40738924043907094202010-07-22T13:22:00.004-04:002010-07-22T13:41:18.254-04:00

Regarding the length of paragraphs--size, or perhaps better stated, length, is entirely up to the individual author. Many of us like to write the way we enjoy reading. Personally, I like short chapters, particularly when I know I don't have a huge block of time to read. I can get several chapters read and not have to stop in the middle of a scene.How does a writer know when to end a chapter?

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-4377162193128386522010-07-20T08:16:00.003-04:002010-07-20T08:31:07.150-04:00

I write reviews for the New York Journal of Books, Two of the last three books I've reviewed were written in first person POV. They were good; the writer was able to get the reader inside the protagonist's head much better than if they had used third person.But for the inexperienced writer, first person POV can be problematic, particularly because there is a tendency to bore the reader with too

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-20106789382427285092010-07-17T08:59:00.001-04:002010-07-17T08:59:14.515-04:00

Finished writing my review for Chosen by Chandra Hoffman, now on to my editor. http://ping.fm/bhUfL

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-87105465825217669482010-07-13T21:03:00.004-04:002010-07-13T21:14:12.286-04:00

I ran across Janet Fitch's blog in which she shares her wisdom about writing and enumerates the things that can improve anyone's writing. Janet is the author of "White Oleander" and "Paint it Black," and she teaches writing at USC. The list -- intended for fiction writers but good for many of us -- is reprinted in its entirety below, with Fitch's permission. Enjoy.1. Write the sentence, not just

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-18560154452665168712010-07-12T08:40:00.003-04:002010-07-12T08:45:50.515-04:00

For those of you who like to write stories, there's a place on the web where you can both read and submit fictional stories. It's called American Short Fiction, and it allows you to submit your story for the paltry sum of two dollars. The site also holds contests for its followers. Check it out; it's another way to become published and get your work in front of others.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-51436272584783689022010-07-08T16:22:00.003-04:002010-07-08T16:31:02.078-04:00

Borders announced that it has finally entered into the e-book market, by launching its own electronic book store. Although it has taken them some time to join others in capitalizing on what's being referred to as the future of publishing, Borders says its aim is to capture 17% of the industry. Read the entire story here: http://tiny.cc/xv9k4 The store, at http://ebooks.borders.com, has more than

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-39638021748288754042010-07-06T13:07:00.001-04:002010-07-06T13:07:41.735-04:00

Check out my Author Page on Amazon. http://tiny.cc/ds3vg

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-78488603171906470762010-07-06T12:43:00.003-04:002010-07-06T13:10:28.317-04:00

Drawing from my recent attendance at a writers conference, I took some notes from a publisher who related some of the most egregious mistakes committed when submitting query letters:The salutation reads, "Dear Sir," when the publisher is a woman.Crazy, non-traditional fonts, all caps, and underlining.Getting personal is big. If you've met them or spoken on the phone with them, remind them of

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-21384031757845149392010-07-05T07:54:00.001-04:002010-07-05T07:54:46.689-04:00

Warriors In High Heels, Part II--check it out http://tiny.cc/54wrb

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-67618500516777416032010-07-04T19:02:00.003-04:002010-07-04T19:08:53.290-04:00

I just completed two book reviews for the New York Journal of Books, find them here: http://tiny.cc/jlwds. If you enjoy reading thrillers, both books will fill that desire. They're Watching by Greg Hurwitz, and Still Missing by Chevy Stevens.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-80151416484600858802010-07-04T11:29:00.003-04:002010-07-04T11:44:22.828-04:00

Your novel doesn't have to be a thriller to incorporate suspense, it can be any genre. But including suspense in your writing ramps up the readers' interest. That begs the question: How do I create suspense? I attended a writers conference a couple of weeks ago in which this element was discussed on at least two panels. On one of those panels, Simon Wood, a well-known author, provided some simple

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-12489892605467168722010-06-25T08:44:00.004-04:002010-06-25T08:52:32.387-04:00

In the past, we've discussed the importance of building an author's platform, getting your name and work out there. It can be a chore at times, posting on Facebook, Twitter, blogs, etc. During the writers conference last week in Vegas, I discovered a tool that allows you to post to all these sites simultaneously. The website is: http://ping.fm/ It's a free service that makes updating your social

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-24342929497374772992010-06-23T20:25:00.001-04:002010-06-23T20:25:39.389-04:00

Grandson Colin scored again in hockey--I missed it--I'm in NY :-(

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-55946605365811351512010-06-21T11:18:00.003-04:002010-06-21T11:35:21.853-04:00

I just spent three days in Vegas at the Public Safety Writers Convention. It was a great opportunity to meet with fellow authors and columnists from around the country. I also appeared on two panels, one of which had four of us discussing the difference between a thriller and a mystery. One of the panelists was best-selling author, Simon Wood, whose new novel, Terminated, has just released.We all

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-46221220563206874172010-06-20T17:45:00.001-04:002010-06-20T17:45:52.445-04:00

Grandson Colin's hockey team won today; he scored! Great Fathers Day gift.

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-83662415663078880662010-06-17T18:56:00.005-04:002010-06-17T19:07:59.198-04:00

Getting a book published is a journey. Some may experience a longer trip than others, but all who travel the publishing road will have many things in common. I came across a good article on the topic in which Alan Orloff describes: 7 Things I've Learned So Far. Take a look at it, it's worth reading whether or not you're published. Items two and six, rang true or me. Number two talks about getting

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-61124101132131373102010-06-15T07:44:00.004-04:002010-06-15T07:55:10.382-04:00

Do you want to become a good writer? If the answer is yes, then it's important that you become a good reader first. Whenever I appear on an authors' panel, or speak to a group about writing, I stress the importance of reading. This simple pleasure is an invaluable tool that allows a writer to learn the many skills needed to write, whether it be fiction or non-fiction.The key to learning from

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-71646528664833756312010-06-06T18:36:00.004-04:002010-06-06T18:46:05.996-04:00

I came across an excellent posting by Jodi Wisenhunt about the top ten ways NOT to improve your writing. Since it's such a complete and concise list, I'd like to share it with those of you who follow my blog. Here's the link: Aim For Perfection Editing.My favorite on the list (and also a pet peeve) is number seven:7) Use cute little "catch phrases" and be sure to place quotation marks around them

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-39809948816992199272010-06-05T07:40:00.003-04:002010-06-05T07:52:16.829-04:00

If you're like most of us who shop for books, the first thing you do is open the book to the first chapter and read the first sentence. More often than not the first few sentences or paragraphs will serve to aid your decision to buy the book or not. That means your opening sentence is probably the most important one in your book. It has to "hook" the reader, drawing him in with excitement, or

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-75977130515205262442010-06-04T13:14:00.004-04:002010-06-04T13:43:45.143-04:00

I'm at the doctor's office this morning, reading my Kindle as I await my turn to be seen. A woman is leaving and sees me, she asks, "Is that a Kindle?" I reply that it is, and a conversation ensues in which we discuss e-readers (she has a Barnes & Noble Nook e-reader).Being always prepared, I hand her one of my bookmarks which contains information about both my novels. I tell her that it's

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5013950264006459767.post-22530623950811820182010-05-27T20:38:00.002-04:002010-05-27T20:45:08.337-04:00

JW: Former colleague, and now fellow-author, Herm Groman is my special guest blogger today. Herm, we spent ten years together in the Detroit Division of the FBI, all of which helped cement the special bond we share today. Your first book, Pigeon Spring, debuts this month. Give our readers a thumbnail sketch about your background.HG: What a great ten years it was too! I know this might sound a

John M. Willshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241672285614035046noreply@blogger.com0