Indie Publishing, meet Indie Bookstores

Yep, the slow grind of self-marketing continues, and the spiderwebs keep growing...so lookout. Took a trip into Northwestern Pa, and it really is God's country. Found some wonderful bookstores; and yes, they knew I was coming. Despite the cost of gas, I feel really good about seeing my books on actual shelves. I'm nowhere near done with this, and sooner than later, will hit the bigboys (B&N, books-a-millon, Borders, ect) and they all have their requirements. Actual paperwork. Yuck. I'll let the Indie thing take hold first.

The most noticeable thing about these Indie stores, without exception, are the friendly people that work there; owners usually, and a cat or two. And lots of good conversation. Funny how book-lovers make such nice people. Rosie's in DuBois had comfy outdoor furniture, inside; and it was so nice when the owner, Sherry, invited us to sit and chat. Mary at Book Nook in Punxsutawney was a wealth of information. And Kathlyn, who owns the incredible Erie Book Store, (please visit if in the area) has also one of the most famous cats in Erie County. Then Werner Books in Erie is also a wonderful store with a large local writer's section.

I haven't even mentioned some earlier visits; Penguin Books in Sewickley (west of Pittsburgh), Red Barn in Greensburg, (it was really a barn...I think), and the quaint Read's Ink in Vandergrift...and another cat. This was the unexpected part of my book ventures -- the nice people I meet.

I have to say it. Folk like writers!

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A time to look back

France was my inspiration for Ainiald (and why not?) Getting into that time of year when the days lengthen and our bones warm in the sunshine delight. That's the time to crawl out of our winter doldrums and hit the road -- or air, rails, water -- whatever you favor. But in writing, you are never out of season. "Prince of the Furies" stands at nearly 70,000 words -- with much time recently spent on revising. (And no, I don't always wait until the end to revise) I had a new character to flesh out and went back a ways to make changes to the story. I'm sure she appreciates the efforts. I am building things up now, laying new foundations, darker trails ahead. One challenge rises as another subsides. Face it, Fantasy is a fun read, and just as fun to write. I realize I should be further along, but it is far more polished than earlier writings at this point. (books one and two) I also hope to put more excerpts out there, and here's a wish for a few more ...

Rainy days and Fridays

Wait, it's only Friday. I usually do these things on Saturday nights. Well, when the time is right, I write. And for once I did write -- just a little revisiting on previous chapters of book five. I talk about the next book often, but the challenge to keep things moving is a difficult one. Given time and more time, it can happen. So where was I the last time we got together? Ah yes, lamenting another lonely Saturday. Maybe that's why I'm writing on a Friday. The goal here is not to lament or complain -- I considered a snippet, which I can post any time, but tonight I just felt like writing...at least before it gets too late. You ever try to reinvent yoursel f; try something new; or take a somewhat leap of faith? No doubt, to get anywhere in life, you might want to attempt one of these things. As I grow older I feel myself taking chances more than once. More than often. I drive those close to me crazy over my past decisions, to be sure. I believe some of us take sometimes...

Preview and comment on Book One here

www.createspace.com/preview/1078008 just to update: Part One is available now. I am offering thru Createspace a discount of $4.00 using the discount code 6PTQ3DXZ. (For a better discount friend me on Facebook) AND NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM USE MY LINK ON RIGHT >>>>>>>>>>>

James M. Vargo Books

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