If you remember, I have a new novelette releasing tomorrow. To prepare for that, I needed to get the files uploaded and through the preview and review processes on both Amazon and Smashwords. This is usually a pretty painless and easy process. And, for the most part, it was. Except-
First, I got a notice from Amazon that they may not be able to accept it because they had discovered some of the content available freely online which might indicate that I did not hold the rights to publish the thing. Well, yes, dear Amazon friends, you did find some of it online- on MY WEB SITE where I put out some teaser excerpts over the past weeks. So, I had to confirm that, yes, I do have the rights to this story and I do have the right to publish it. They agreed, and all was well with Amazon.
Then, I get an email from Smashwords that the novelette failed their review because I had left the link to my Amazon author page in the back matter. It was an oversight. I should have deleted that, but still. The reason was “our partners don’t want any reference to Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kindle, or Nook” in the works they sell. Well, guys, you do realize that you also distribute to B&N, and Amazon (though admittedly on a limited basis to the latter). I took that to imply that Apple (the other really big name in the distribution list) doesn’t want anyone to realize they can actually buy e-books anywhere else. Took out the link and resubmitted.
Of course, that all meant that the files had to go through all the review processes again.
*headdesk*
And that is why I always make sure I get the files submitted with some lead time. Because annoying little things like this do crop up and that can push availability back. Planning, people, planning.
In other news, I got the tomatoes in their box this weekend, and potted up a few of the herbs. The stand for those that will go on the deck is supposed to arrive today, so I am waiting for that to see what sort of pots I want for the rest of the herbs.
We also got a new smoker yesterday. The electric one didn’t survive another winter so well, and Wal-Mart had a nice propane one at a good price, so the BaldMan went and picked one up. Which was another adventure since the store price and the online price were different, and the matching price had to be approved. And I guess getting the full propane tank was another fun trip. Kinda glad I didn’t go along.
I took the dog down to the creek where he got to splash in the water and cool off for a bit. He also made a new doggie friend, so he was happy.
Don’t forget- “Snake’s Alive” is out tomorrow! Amazon and Smashwords for sure. May take a few days to go live at Apple, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and elsewhere. $0.99 everywhere. If you do decide to get it- Many, many thanks!!
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Available now:
After five years away, Kaili is coming home for the ceremony to install her sister as head of the family business. When an old rivalry threatens the family, Kaili and her partner need to use all their skills to save the sisters’ lives. Learn more here.
A collection of six short fantasy stories set in varied worlds of magic and mayhem. Learn more here.
A short novelette set in a dystopian Earth after the final environmental collapse. Sam is a genetically engineered chameleon who may hold the key to mankind’s survival. Learn more here.
In a world reeling under the effects of severe climate change, food shortages are common, and arable farmland is scarce. Unscupulous distributors like Beni Oligowma take advantage of the shortages for their own gain. When a promising new technology for growing food even under the harsh conditions is unveiled, grocery store owner Frank is determined to see that everyone is able to benefit from the results, not just the Benis of the world.
Feed My People is a short story, set in a dystopian science fiction world, and is free. Learn more here
Demon hunters Johnny and Cerise travel to the small town of Carroll Fork where they find a demon-possessed thrift store, a sweet old lady who is more than she seems, and an army of underworld inhabitants. Can Johnny and his trusty yo-yo save the town from a devil of a problem?
Five and Daemon, the Yo-Yo Files #1, is a short novelette in an urban fantasy setting, with elements of the supernatural and humor. Learn more here
Things have been quiet. No demonic possessions, no otherworldly intrusions, nothing. And then Lucifer shows up in Johnny’s living room, claiming that two archangels are missing, and something is definitely not right in the heavenly- and other- realms. Saying he has nothing to do with it- this time- he asks Johnny and Cerise to help him find out what’s happening, and who is behind the disappearances. While they are trying to do just that, Lucifer is devilnapped by a larger-than-life serpent. He manages to get a clue to Johnny before he disappears. Johnny and Cerise are left to puzzle out the disappearances and try to find the missing angels. Oh, and stop what could mean the ultimate destruction of pretty much everything.
Snake’s Alive, the Yo-Yo Files #2 is an urban fantasy novelette with elements of the supernatural and humor. It will be available on June 13 at most e-book retailers. Look for it then!