Writers Sauce – WWC – MWS April-2024

2 April 2024 matclarke Leave a comment

Writers Sauce – WWC – MWS April-2024

Welcome to Writers Sauce. We have one new topic for you to check out and it’s all about writing.

Contents:

1. Book Review (more reviews on books wanted) *NEW*

2. Writing competitions – suspended until a new manager volunteers

3. Promote your blog

4. Lee Cole-Hayhow talk on Podcasting for Authors 2024 *NEW*

5. The Story Mint: Stylefit

6. Where to Go and Write During Happy Hour

7. Writer volunteer Jobs

8. Melbourne Writers Social Group events

9. All Write! upcoming events

10. We want to hear from you

11. Join us and we’ll promote you

12. Essential Information for Writers

13. Important links

Here’s what Christopher Kong said about World Writers Collective:

“Hi Mat – I came across your World Writers Collective site, including your post covering ‘editing tips’.

I’m writing this note to say a big THANKS. I think your site is a wonderful resource, and I really resonated with your comment on the benefit of giving/receiving feedback via writers groups. Despite your evident experience, I appreciate how your sharing comes across as very humble and accessible.

I’ve been working on a piece of creative non-fiction. Look forward to connecting and exchanging more ideas (and writing?) with each other!”

And Sergio about Melbourne Writers Social Group:

Hi Mat, I feel like I should grab you at least a couple of beers and a nice pub meal. It’s the least I can do to say thanks. I have no clue about being a writer and your help has been invaluable.

Kind regards

Sergio

Sneda, Ran, Stace, Saara, Paul, Dan are our newest subscribers. We now have over 400 subscribers. You’ve joined a great group of writers 🙂

If anyone would like to invite friends to join us, forward this email to anyone anywhere in the world.

World Writers Collective collaborates together with writers, editors and many other kinds of artists / creatives in all industries. We have actors, directors, illustrators, musicians and screenwriters in one place all eager for you to enjoy their work

Join us as a subscriber or as a writer if you would like your own promotional page on our website. To have a page on our website it there is a donation cost per year. Included are some minor discounts and the ability to advertise yourself for free to our subscribers.

Everyone who works on this website does so for free.

We would also like to stress that if you can not afford the donation of approximately $20, we would like you as a member anyway. You can pay WWC when you have the money available.

www.worldwriterscollective.com/wwc

If you want to add to this email with your own words of wisdom, please let us know. We can also/otherwise add info to our NEWS section on the WWC website.

It’s all done for free and it’s off our own back. Please get involved if you have the time.

Thank you,

Mat Clarke

www.worldwriterscollective.com/mat-carke

–

1. Review a book title – It will be posted on the WWC website

Are you someone who likes to review books (poems, short stories, movie scripts, blogs, non-fiction, etc.) and give honest feedback on content, interest, characters, structure, or if you think it was just really good reading? Submit your review via this email.

For 2024 please review any book or script or poetry you like (yes, you can submit a review done on your story if you like).

Here’s James Pletch’s review of Remarkable Recoveries.

Remarkable Recoveries: What extraordinary healings tell us about getting well and staying well

Carlyle Hirshberg and Marc Ian Barasch. Headline London 1996

By James Pletch, Wharf Hotel Writers night 19 March 2023

Carlyle Hirshberg is a biochemist. With this book, she pioneers the study of thousands of spontaneous remissions – remarkable recoveries – from ‘terminal’ cancer. She worked at the Stanford Research Institute creating a unique database of thousands of recoveries from terminal illness, and used this database to study the five percent of people who recover. She also spoke to other experts with a lot of experience of remarkable recoveries.

Traditionally the medical profession has dismissed this group as statistical outliers. Hirshberg decided their example of unusual success in recovering from fatal illness holds lessons for us all. Her findings are fascinating. We can all draw from them in our own way. Her study included looking deeply into fifty remarkable recovery cases.

Our innate ability to heal lies beneath all curatives, both conventional and unconventional. Everyone is an individual, and their key to healing is unique to them.

She found faith is the critical ingredient in cases of remarkable recovery – whether faith in a process, a person, a pill (placebo or otherwise), a doctor, saints, or God.

Many used prayer, and it seems to have stimulated their healing system, something usually ignored by medical journals. People experienced a personal relationship with God, and were tolerant and not dogmatic.

Many had an experience of the divine, something difficult to describe or quantify; something the researchers were both impressed by, and unable to explain in conventional terms.

People were congruent: they were deeply aligned within themselves, rather than being fractured and uncertain within themselves. They were ‘singing their own song.’

People had a strong fighting spirit.

60 to 70 percent attributed their survival to what might be called ‘receptive’ factors like faith, meditation and prayer.

People had a belief in their uniqueness, and not simply being a ‘disease category’. They had a strong ability to focus on the good rather than the bad, and had a rich inner life.

The researchers noted the attributes of a disease prone personality, being the opposite of an approach needed for a remarkable recovery: repression of feeling, lack of expressiveness, depressed acceptance, and a sense of hopelessness and helplessness. Clearly, people need to reverse these attributes, if they have them.

They had a strong social connection, like an enduring marriage or a strong friendship connection or network. Very importantly, they had one person with whom they had an honest nurturing confiding communication relationship. This could be anyone: for example a spouse, partner, parent, therapist, friend, or support group member.

People had a good relationship with their doctor, but made their own decisions.

75 percent of the 50 remarkable recovery people who were deeply studied had artistic activities in their life. Nearly half played a musical instrument or sang. Researchers wonder if music and art bypass the rational part of the brain and connect in some unknown way with our deeper mind-body healing capacity. In ancient Greece, Apollo was both the god of music and of medicine.

The research points to an integral approach to healing: spirit, genetics, psychoneuroimmunology, and mind-body factors. These compose an orchestral approach, not just a single instrument.

Remarkable recovery people have hope and optimism, a strong will to live, and they confront their problems directly, rather than avoiding them. They have good emotional support from family and/or a friend or friends. 80 percent had the ability to enrol positive mood states and social support situations to empower their healing.

The top activities remarkable recovery people believed contributed to their recovery were: prayer 68%; meditation 64%, exercise 64%; guided imagery 59%; walking 52%; music/singing 50%; and stress reduction 50%.

The most common psycho-spiritual factors remarkable recovery people checked off on a list of 26 items were: belief in a positive outcome 75%, fighting spirit 71%, acceptance of the disease 71%, seeing the disease as a challenge 71%, taking responsibility for the disease and outcome 68%, renewed desire to live 64%, positive emotions 64%, faith 61%, new sense of purpose 61%, changes in habits/behaviour 61%, sense of control 59%, lifestyle changes 59%, self-nurturance 57%, and social support 50%.

Here’s a review of ‘Dilemmas of a Middle-Aged Madonna’ by Meredith Fuller

DILEMMAS of a MIDDLE-AGED MADONNA

By Cecile Ravell (2022) Warrior Woman Press

Book review Meredith Fuller OAM

Cecile Ravell, a creative memoir author and poet, writes non-fiction and fiction and has a talent for infusing travel writing within her books. Passionate about travel, she brings countries and venues alive. She also scatters some Italian throughout the story. Novellas include ‘Love on a Faultline’ and ‘Child Magical’. Her characters are an amalgam of people throughout her life.

Outline

‘Spurned by the love of her life, Jessica contemplates walking into the ocean and drowning. A chance meeting leads to a sequence of events which turn her life around. This story lurches from pathos to comedy to romance, as our female protagonist navigates the challenges that life hurls at her’

The book takes us from Far North Queensland to Nova Scotia, Canada, and New York City.

Having also visited the Frick Museum, I found her information and history about Henry Clay Frick fascinating, similarly for the Met and Times Square.

This isn’t a genre I would normally read (fiction & romance) as I tend to read non fiction and biographies. Jessica is disengaging from a ‘bad boy’ partner and meets several new men who treat her well. Will she jump out of a disappointing 20-year relationship into something that may promise fulfillment? I found this a raunchy read – maybe too raunchy for me!

Some of her metaphors were appealing in their visceral imagery. For example, she talks about how her new lover’s fervour lifted the cold shroud of her former partner’s enveloping.

Purchase an autographed copy: ravellc@yahoo.com.au

Here’s a review of ‘The Man Behind the Mask’ by Rachel Martigan – A Regency Romance.

I struggled today and yesterday ��, having to work, when I just wanted to keep reading.

There was unexpected events, times where I was nervous about what the outcome might be, and happy bits.

Such a great read, you’ve done such a great job with both books.

So, when is the next book out?

I’m such a romance junkie, I can’t get enough.

Well done

The book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Man-Behind-Mask-Rachel-Martigan/dp/B09RJYT9N4/ref=cm_cr_srp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Here’s a review by John Christmas and Susan Thorn of Ray C Doyle’s mystery novel, Lara’s Secret:
JC: I greatly enjoyed this tale which incorporated modern history of Cyprus into a thriller complete with action and romance. Pete West is a new investigative-journalism hero not afraid to tangle with the corrupts to uncover the truth!
ST: Fantastic story, halfway through this novel, it had me from the first chapter, mystery and intrigue, it’s gripping, I can’t wait for the next book in the trilogy.
raycdoyle.com
www.fishpond.com/Books/Laras-Secret-Ray-C-Doyle/9781915212047

2. Competitions

Current and upcoming competitions have been suspended for now until we find a manager.

WANTED: competition manager

Short story competitions – World Writers Collective

A. The big one – WWC Golden Pen Award – Win $250 First Prize

Second prize is $100 to spend in a Red Bubble store and one-year membership of Creative Writers Collective. The third prize will be a FREE entry to any one of the competitions for a year and one-year membership of Creative Writers Collective.

All winners will be published in the anthology.

We may need to halt competitions after this latest big prize due to not having a competitions manager. If you would like to become the manager, please let Mat Clarke know.

Coming up (TBA):
The Quick Creative – limited words and limited time. Join us and win cash!

Need help with writing short stories? Go to our competitions tab page 1. We have added hints and tips to help you write the best short story ever. There is a video by Ray Stone, which is a great resource. Our writing competition winners have given their tips and Mat Clarke has added his thoughts. You can also check out our editing tips page.

www.worldwriterscollective.com/writing-competitions

www.worldwriterscollective.com/editing-tips

www.worldwriterscollective.com

Become a World Writers Collective member, which helps support everyone in the group as indie writers and allows you to collect prizes if you win.

Want to get published or publish your own works and have our members spread the word about your works, book launch, or other? It’s only $20 a year to join which helps pay the few hundred dollars it costs for the domain and host the website each year.

www.worldwriterscollective.com/join

If you are one of the top winners of the competition, you will be included in the next anthology. That’s just one of the great reasons to get involved!

We also want to promote you and your writing. All you have to do is say the word. When you are a member, it’s free!

3. Promote your blog

We want to promote your blog. Email us a link of one of your blogs and an explanation of why WWC people would enjoy reading it.

We want to promote your blog. Email us a link of one of your blogs and an explanation of why WWC people would enjoy reading it.

Here’s a few from Magz Morgan and the positive comment she received:

www.magzmorgan.com/blog

THANK you both, and the writers’ collective for all the moral support. When I get a message like this, I feel like crying. Maggie

“I just read both of these pieces and found them to be exceptional. You really have developed your talent. When I read the article on writing, I felt that I had a tutor sitting next to me sharing her secrets, while the short story was a delicious gossipy tale that I friend might share. I think that the first article gave me an insight into how hard you have worked to hone your skills. I am impressed with the quality of your writing. Don’t stop.”

Linda Douglas

Here’s another by Cecile Ravell

https://ravellc.wixsite.com/ravell-the-writer/blog

4. Lee Cole-Hayhow talk on Podcasting for Authors 2024

Podcasting for Authors

Hey there, fellow wordsmiths! Remember when we chatted about podcasting for authors last year? Well, here’s an update now that I’ve released a novel for the audience I built up.

Podcasting 101

So, what exactly is a podcast? Think of it as your favourite radio show, but on-demand and tailored to your interests. Whether you’re into true crime, comedy, or, in our case, storytelling, there’s a podcast out there for everyone. Since its humble beginnings in 2006, podcasting has exploded into a massive industry, with millions of episodes available for your listening pleasure.

Now, here’s a fun fact: while there are nearly 4.4 million podcasts floating around in cyberspace, not all of them are active. In fact, only a fraction—around 455 thousand—are regularly pumping out new episodes. That’s because consistency is key in the podcasting game. If you disappear for three months, chances are your listeners will move on to the next big thing.

Despite the sheer number of podcasts out there, the medium’s popularity continues to soar. In the U.S. alone, a whopping 80% of people know what a podcast is, with 18% tuning in daily. That’s a lot of ears eager for content!

Podcasting for Authors

Now, let’s talk about what this means for us authors. Podcasting isn’t just for comedians and journalists—it’s a fantastic platform for storytellers of all kinds. Whether you’re spinning tales of romance, mystery, or fantasy, there’s a hungry audience out there waiting to devour your words.

In my own podcasting journey, I wear a few different hats. From dissecting movies with my brother to sharing candid conversations with listeners, I’ve dabbled in various genres and formats. But the big one for me at the moment and the one most relevant to you is my fiction podcast, where I share my own original erotic short stories.

When the world ground to a halt during the COVID lockdown, I found myself with a surplus of time and a shortage of steamy audio content. So, I did what everyone seems to be doing these days: I created my own podcast. Fast forward three years, and I’ve hit the million-download milestone which is a huge number and it’s still weird to say it out loud, or type it for that matter.

Getting Started

Now, you might be thinking, “But how do I get in on this podcasting action?” Fear not, my friend! The beauty of podcasting is its low barrier to entry. All you need is a microphone, an internet connection, and a killer idea. Whether you’re sharing short stories, serialising your novel, or dishing out writing advice, the possibilities are endless.

And hey, if the technical stuff seems overwhelming, don’t sweat it. Platforms like Spotify for Podcasters make it easy to upload and distribute your episodes. Plus, there are tons of resources and communities out there to help you along the way.

Show Me the Money

Ah, yes, the million-dollar question: can you actually make money from podcasting? The short answer is yes, but it takes time, dedication, and a bit of hustle. In my case, I’ve experimented with membership subscriptions, direct book sales, and potential sponsorship deals. By building a loyal community of listeners and offering exclusive content, I’ve been able to turn my passion project into a modest source of income.

Other Benefits

But it’s not all about the bucks. Podcasting has brought me so much more than just a paycheck. There are a number of other benefits that I’ve gained from hosting my own podcast.

● Hone my craft: I’ve written 70 short stories over the last three years, totally about 200,000 words. My scene writing skills in long form fiction are so much better.

● Connection: marketing is about building and connecting with your audience. I have a bigger social media following and online communities with close to 1000 members.

● Audiobook production: the experience of hosting my own podcast meant that I could confidently record and release my own audiobook in three days, not three weeks as most self-read audiobooks are reported to take.

● Feedback: releasing short form stories to a wide and engaged audience means I get a lot of feedback from listeners on my writing and the kinds of things they like to read and listen to.

So, if you’ve ever thought about starting your own podcast, now’s the time to take the plunge. Who knows? You might just discover a whole new world of storytelling—and maybe even make a few bucks along the way. If you’re interested in learning more about it, chat to me at Melbourne Writers’ monthly meet-up or get in touch.

5. The Story Mint: Stylefit

Student Writing Competition

Open for participation enquiries and entry submissions

We loved holding last year’s lockdown writing competition, and collaborating with our incredible judges and prize sponsors to deliver students a fun opportunity amidst our national lockdowns. It was wonderful to see the enjoyment shared by both students and teachers throughout last year’s competition!

We hope we can achieve that once more with out 2022 NZ student writing competition! It’s now up and running, so we invite class groups or individual students to participate!

Our two biggest goals are:

– show students that writing (and learning writing skills) can be fun

– improve students’ writing skills by increasing confidence, self-direction and agency

Those participating (as a school, class or you even just a few keen individual students) will have the opportunity to craft their entries with the help of our writing skills tool, Stylefit. We loved hearing about our participating schools’ experiences with the software during the 2021 writing competition – here’s a video snippet on student motivation!

If you’d like to participate, get in touch with anna@stylefit.org. We’ll either extend your current Stylefit licence or open up a trial version for the duration of the competition. You can also find out more about how it works by booking a demo or having a look at the feedback features here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ly7EN53ldRI

6. Where to Write During Happy Hour

by Mat Clarke

You’ve been writing at home, on the train, while waiting for friends or at one of our writing meetups. Now you need somewhere to go that will aid you in finding inspiration and allow you to buy food and drinks without breaking the bank. You’ll need a nice venue now that Melbourne is getting back on the horse again, albeit slowly. It’s time to get back out there!

One of my favourite places is The Wharf Hotel in Melborne CBD opposite Jeff’s Shed. You’ll enter the venue via the waterfront, as it has no street entrance. While sitting outside under the sun or resting comfortably inside, you can look out over the Yarra River and the many people entering Crown Casino or walking past Polly Woodisde to DFO. As you turn your mind to the bar you’ll notice that happy starts at 4pm and ends at 7pm Monday to Friday. So grab yourself a schooner, spirit or wine for $7, sit back and relax.

What you can do:

A game will usually be on so you can cheer and enjoy the excitement.

One of the friendly staff will be happy to chat and talk about what you can see and do nearby.

No food discounts anymore, unfortunately. They used to be great with the Monday to Thursday cheap eats, but maybe that will return in Summer. Otherwise, download The Pass app and get $10 off your first purchase.

TGI Fridays is a good favourite in any part of Melbourne. Inside Melbourne Central you’ll find that TGI Fridays is up two sets of escalators from Swanston Street. They run a happy hour from 4pm to 6pm. It includes $6 schooners, wines and spirits. They also do cheap cocktails which I love. If you stay on, they generally run a late night happy hour as well which is from 8pm to 10pm. Not bad if you want to chat your friend’s ear off all night. Sit at the bar and talk to the bartenders if you like. They’re happy to make you feel welcome when they’re not run off their feet. You can also download their app and get some small discounted snacks.

Melbourne Central Lion starts happy hour at 4pm and ends at 7pm, but only Monday to Thursday. You’ll be able to buy pints for $9 and pay $7 for wine and spirits. If you like the idea of food specials Sunday to Thursday, then check them out upon arrival. They usually do great cheap pizza too.

Just a little north of the CBD is the Queensberry Hotel. If they aren’t busy they’ll sometimes close early, so get in before they do. Happy Hour is a standard 25% off from 5pm to 7pm except Mondays when it is $6 beer and $6 spirits. They also do great meal options at budget prices, such as a parma on Wednesday for $20.

I’ve always enjoyed happy hour at Father’s Office, especially considering they love to double dip. Your first happy hour is 5pm to 7pm and your second is from 8pm to 10pm. It just may force you to stay all night! Oh no, what a pity 🙂 It runs every day with selected cocktails at $12, pints from $8 and $9 spirits. They also do some cheap meals during some of their weekdays. The part I like is the balcony that looks out over Swanston Street. A lovely view I have enjoyed many times over. Oh, and they also have a venue in Flinders Lane as well as their original spot on Little Lonsdale.

One of the things I found hard to find in the city was good pizza. Domino’s on the thin crust will sometimes do, but if you need good American pizza or chicken wings, try Sal’s Pizza on Flinders Lane. It’s a tiny place, but the food is great (greasy and tasty). Otherwise, the Universal Hotel a little north of the CBD is your best option for traditional pizza.

The sponsored part:

If you want to spend these great moments with writers or other people who share your many interests, but you’re yet to find friends in Melbourne, or all your friends are busy, then sign up to http://www.friendlyfamiliars.com and find someone who gets you. There’s so much to do now, so it would be even better if you were not doing it alone.

7. Writer volunteer jobs

We would love you to join our network of writers as a creative leader and help you further everyone’s knowledge of writing. No doubt, you’ll learn more about yourself and your writing as well. Have a read below and see what fits your personal skills and lifestyle. Commit to what you can and we’ll see you in the trenches. Most of all, have fun!

Opportunities:

Manager of writing competitions

Website manager

Information officer

Assistant to managers and officers

Writing Competition Judges

Event host – multiple required (Melbourne only)

Further details: www.worldwriterscollective.com/job-vacancies

These are all volunteer positions.

Your position includes free membership, a discount for any events you attend, free access to catering (if supplied) and an allowance for the manager positions (see position details).

Commit for 12 months or longer.

8. Melbourne Writers Social events

Recently we discussed how to win writing competitions and what judges look for. If you would like to learn more, check out our website: www.worldwriterscollective.com/writing-competitions

The previous month we talked about our favourite books to read and linking to each other via Goodreads. We would like to start linking to each other so we can recommend books to each other and promote the few authors in our group. Post up your Goodreads link via comments below, if you are reading this on our blog, or post it via our Facebook groups:

www.facebook.com/groups/570847673015529

www.facebook.com/groups/169777419779168

Mat Clarke – link to me and find others: www.goodreads.com/author/show/6898385.Mat_Clarke

Our main event runs at the Wharf Hotel on the third Tuesday of the month. Please join us – all are welcome, even if you are only thinking of starting out in a creative field.

Click here to RSVP, check time and place of events: www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

We meet online every Monday from 6.30pm and show each other our work and chat about everything creative.

South Bank Write Now: Second Saturday of the month. The venue is generally quiet, opens early, free wifi, good coffee, food as well as drinks if you need them for later 😉 There is music, and it is a cafe-bar, so bear this in mind and wear head phones if you need them while you write.

Melbourne Central: One Sunday a month. We are nestled in the back corner of the upstairs food court near the windows, past the colourful piano, behind the big clock. We meet to write mostly, but you are free to chat with others who would like to do so.

As with all our events, please get in touch if you would like to help with running events. The best way to do this is to come to one of our events and chat to the current event hosts about what you would like to do. We prefer to have two event hosts at each event, so where there is an opening we are happy for you to get involved.

There are many other Writing groups in Melbourne that you may be interested in as well. Go to them all and see what you like . . . but then come back to MWS and bring more great people with you. Haha 😉

www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

More links below

9. All Write! upcoming events

A place where you can write in Melbourne Central. All you do is turn up and write with others. You can chat to other writers as well if you like and grab a bite or a cuppa.

Most of all, enjoy yourself.

www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

More links below

10. We want to hear from you!

Yes, we really do.

We want feedback in any way shape or form. Even if it is to tell us you love us.

Stuff you may wish to reply about for our next Writers Sauce:

1) A few sentences on what writing means to you.

2) A paragraph or two about how you became a writer (or want to).

3) A great skill you picked up regarding editing, writing, publishing, etc.

4) The best place to write.

5) How chatting to others about writing made you a better writer.

11. Join us and we’ll promote you

You’re Not Alone

Come take the journey with us

Become a member for $20 per year. We would also like to stress that if you can not afford the $20, we would like you as a member anyway. You can pay WWC when you have the money available.

This is a collaborative group created so that in greater numbers we will be heard rather than forgotten

JOIN

Your $20 helps to pay for the website and member writers platforms

12. Essential Information

Sites Authors Should Know

This is an unofficial list I have created as a useful writer’s tool. I receive no royalties, or kickbacks from any sites below. Use as advice only.

-(Dean MacAllister)

SELFPUBLISHINGADVICE.ORG– Before submitting to a publisher or self-publishing I highly recommend you check out the ‘Writers Beware’ section of this site! It has lists of scams to look out for and lists the less-than-reputable companies that have ripped writers off globally. Learn from the mistakes of others.

Smashwords- Creates and publishes E-books in all formats for free.

Takes some getting used to and has to be done properly. For a small fee people on site will convert your file through the “meat-grinder” converter for you.

Kindlepreneur- Writer who joined most author sites to compare.

Links to the best author friendly tools. Marketing advice included. Free website with free manuals. (Highly recommended!)

Goodreads- Author/Reader site. Many discussion forums. Very popular. Good place to find fans, create an author profile and source reviews.

Librarything- Poor-man’s version of Goodreads, but much less commercial.

13. Important Links

Post news about your writing, book launch, events, or event just a link to your latest blog/post/tweet: www.facebook.com/groups/1629658520414716

Important information about writing in general, and the Melbourne Writers Group: www.facebook.com/MelbWriters

Discuss anything you like that’s creative: www.facebook.com/groups/169777419779168

For people who want to discuss writing on a forum that is for everyone around the world: www.facebook.com/groups/570847673015529

Information on writing, writing competitions, professional editing, getting published, and more. Become a member for discounts: www.worldwriterscollective.com

Near Melbourne? Come to our group and meet other writers and chat. Everyone is welcome: www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

Previous email-outs with great information.www.worldwriterscollective.com/writers-sauce

The Story Mint newsletter for even more information. Subscribe here: www.thestorymint.com

Writers Sauce – WWC

Categories: Writing Groups Tags: author, blog, books, podcast, podcasting, publishing, reading, writing

Writers Sauce – WWC – MWS 25-February-2024

25 February 2024 matclarke 1 comment

Writers Sauce – WWC – MWS 25–February-2024

Welcome to Writers Sauce. We have one new topic for you to check out and it’s all about writing. See CONTENTS below. Then, in about three weeks time, we’ll have an article for you from Lee, who spoke to us last week about how he was able to achieve over a million downloads for his podcast.

Here’s what Christopher Kong said about World Writers Collective:

“Hi Mat – I came across your World Writers Collective site, including your post covering ‘editing tips’.

I’ve been working on a piece of creative non-fiction. Look forward to connecting and exchanging more ideas (and writing?) with each other!”

And Sergio about Melbourne Writers Social Group:

Hi Mat, I feel like I should grab you at least a couple of beers and a nice pub meal. It’s the least I can do to say thanks. I have no clue about being a writer and your help has been invaluable.

Kind regards

Sergio

Ilya, Daryl, Nadia, Crystal, Sarah, Jackie, Matthew, Gil, Shev, Anthony, Sebastian, Lavinia, Javier, Srash, Juaioi, Alex, Ash and Daniel are our newest subscribers. We now have around 400 subscribers. You’ve joined a great group of writers 🙂

If anyone would like to invite friends to join us, forward this email to anyone anywhere in the world.

World Writers Collective collaborates together with writers, editors and many other kinds of artists / creatives in all industries. We have actors, directors, illustrators, musicians and screen writers in the one place all eager for you to enjoy their work

Everyone who works on this website does so for free.

We would also like to stress that if you can not afford the donation of approximately $20, we would like you as a member anyway. You can pay WWC when you have the money available.

www.worldwriterscollective.com/wwc

If you want to add to this email with your own words of wisdom, please let us know. We can also/otherwise add info to our NEWS section on the WWC website.

It’s all done for free and it’s off our own back. Please get involved if you have the time.

Thank you,

Mat Clarke

www.worldwriterscollective.com/mat-carke

Contents:

(See *NEW* below)

1. Book Review (more reviews on books wanted)

2. Writing competitions – suspended until a new manager volunteers

3. Promote your blog

4. James Pletch’s talk on Book Sale Statistics 2023 *NEW*

5. The Story Mint: Stylefit

6. Where to Go and Write During Happy Hour

7. Writer volunteer Jobs

8. Melbourne Writers Social Group events

9. All Write! upcoming events

10. We want to hear from you

11. Join us and we’ll promote you

12. Essential Information for Writers

13. Important links

–

1. Review a book title – It will be posted on the WWC website

For 2023 please review any book or script or poetry you like (yes, you can submit a review done on your story if you like).

Here’s a review of ‘The Man Behind the Mask’ by Rachel Martigan – A Regency Romance.

I struggled today and yesterday ��, having to work, when I just wanted to keep reading.

There was unexpected events, times where I was nervous about what the outcome might be, and happy bits.

Such a great read, you’ve done such a great job with both books.

So, when is the next book out?

I’m such a romance junkie, I can’t get enough.

Well done

All three reviews: https://www.amazon.com.au/gp/profile/amzn1.account.AERDMS7R4XWAMTDMWAS7A5C3PAGQ/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_gw_tr?ie=UTF8

The book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Man-Behind-Mask-Rachel-Martigan/dp/B09RJYT9N4/ref=cm_cr_srp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Here’s a review by John Christmas and Susan Thorn of Ray C Doyle’s mystery novel, Lara’s Secret:
JC: I greatly enjoyed this tale which incorporated modern history of Cyprus into a thriller complete with action and romance. Pete West is a new investigative-journalism hero not afraid to tangle with the corrupts to uncover the truth!
ST: Fantastic story, halfway through this novel, it had me from the first chapter, mystery and intrigue, it’s gripping, I can’t wait for the next book in the trilogy.
raycdoyle.com
www.fishpond.com/Books/Laras-Secret-Ray-C-Doyle/9781915212047

Here’s a review by Denise Kuchmar of Cecile Ravell’s creative memoir: ravellc.wixsite.com/ravell-the-writer

Review of Dilemmas of a Middle-aged Madonna:
“Traversing the world, from Far North Queensland to Nova Scotia, Canada, and New York City, Jessica tries to work out the cards life has dealt her. A uniquely visual story that sees the main character experience many journeys: physically, emotionally, and metaphorically. Will she overcome the dilemmas in her life?

It’s a hard story to put down.”

Denise Kuchmar, Journalist.

Pre-order autographed copy: ravellc@yahoo.com.au

Here’s an industry review via Books + Publishing of S.D. Hinton’s mystery novel:
THE BROTHERS
‘The Brothers is a masterclass in menacing tension … Atmospheric and moody, the novel chills with its subtle allusions to an unknown enemy that is too close for comfort. Perfect for readers of Garry Disher, Chris Hammer and Jane Harper, The Brothers combines the idyllic Australian surf town setting with unseen dangers – both physical and mental – that lurk in the shadows.’
www.harpercollins.com.au/9781460762578/the-brothers

2. Competitions

Current and upcoming competitions have been suspended for now until we find a manager.

WANTED: competition manager

Short story competitions – World Writers Collective

A. The big one – WWC Golden Pen Award – Win $250 First Prize

All winners will be published in the anthology.

We may need to halt competitions after this latest big prize due to not having a competitions manager. If you would like to become the manager, please let Mat Clarke know.

Coming up (TBA):The Quick Creative – limited words and limited time. Join us and win cash!

www.worldwriterscollective.com/writing-competitions

www.worldwriterscollective.com/editing-tips

www.worldwriterscollective.com

Become a World Writers Collective member, which helps support everyone in the group as indie writers and allows you to collect prizes if you win.

www.worldwriterscollective.com/join

If you are one of the top winners of the competition, you will be included in the next anthology. That’s just one of the great reasons to get involved!

We also want to promote you and your writing. All you have to do is say the word. When you are a member, it’s free!

3. Promote your blog

We want to promote your blog. Email us a link of one of your blogs and an explanation of why WWC people would enjoy reading it.

We want to promote your blog. Email us a link of one of your blogs and an explanation of why WWC people would enjoy reading it.

Here’s a few from Magz Morgan and the positive comment she received:

www.magzmorgan.com/blog

THANK you both, and the writers’ collective for all the moral support. When I get a message like this, I feel like crying. Maggie

Linda Douglas

Here’s another by Cecile Ravell

https://ravellc.wixsite.com/ravell-the-writer/blog

4. James Pletch’s talk on Book Sale Statistics 2023

By Mat Clarke for Roger Wakelin

January 2024 Wharf Writers talk on Book Sales by Jim Pletch filling in for Lee who had covid and could not give his guest talk on developing audience on his podcast that has 1 million downloads. Lee will now be doing this in March.

From the research group WordsRated 2023:

l In 2023 the global book publishing revenue was $129 billion – up from $122 billion in 2018

l Print books account for 77% of the market.

l Audio books will grow by 27% in the next 5 years.

l The big 5 in the global market are the US, China, Japan, Germany and India.

l Since 2021 fiction books have become the dominant trade book category overthrowing nonfiction books. However adult nonfiction is still the biggest single category among trade books at 38% of the market.

l 11.7% of US citizens read poetry at least once a year, with women reading it more than men.

l Since 2017 in the US the majority of book sales have occurred online.

l Book sales survived and even thrived during covid.

l The highest selling time is late November until year’s end.

l Used books accounted for 15% of the global market in 2020. Over 70% of students choose to buy a used book over the newly-published one.

l Amazon revolutionized self-publishing enabling millions of authors to compete in the book market.

l 300 million self-published books are sold each year.

l Over 90% of self-published books sell under 100 copies. Writing and publishing a book is clearly a popular form of creative self-expression in people’s lives now, rather than a means of acquiring serious income.

l Amazon is the biggest book-selling company in the world, selling $28 billion annually. In the US it controls over 40% of all print book sales.

l Jim asked the room for a show of hands on their most popular form of book and it was printed books, with ebooks coming second and audiobooks third.

5. The Story Mint: Stylefit

Student Writing Competition

Open for participation enquiries and entry submissions

We hope we can achieve that once more with out 2022 NZ student writing competition! It’s now up and running, so we invite class groups or individual students to participate!

Our two biggest goals are:

– show students that writing (and learning writing skills) can be fun

– improve students’ writing skills by increasing confidence, self-direction and agency

6. Where to Write During Happy Hour

by Mat Clarke

What you can do:

A game will usually be on so you can cheer and enjoy the excitement.

One of the friendly staff will be happy to chat and talk about what you can see and do nearby.

The sponsored part:

7. Writer volunteer jobs

Opportunities:

Manager of writing competitions

Website manager

Information officer

Assistant to managers and officers

Writing Competition Judges

Event host – multiple required (Melbourne only)

Further details: www.worldwriterscollective.com/job-vacancies

These are all volunteer positions.

Your position includes free membership, a discount for any events you attend, free access to catering (if supplied) and an allowance for the manager positions (see position details).

Commit for 12 months or longer.

8. Melbourne Writers Social events

Recently we discussed how to win writing competitions and what judges look for. If you would like to learn more, check out our website: www.worldwriterscollective.com/writing-competitions

www.facebook.com/groups/570847673015529

www.facebook.com/groups/169777419779168

Mat Clarke – link to me and find others: www.goodreads.com/author/show/6898385.Mat_Clarke

Our main flagship event runs at the Wharf Hotel on the third Tuesday of the month. Please join us – all are welcome, even if you are only thinking of starting out in a creative field.

Click here to RSVP, check time and place of events: www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

We meet online every Monday from 6.30pm and show each other our work and chat about everything creative.

In South Bank each month for the next six or so months we are running a workshop on audio book creation. Please join us for an enjoyable information session. See Meetup for details.

Not currently running: Eastern suburbs meet. Laura, Stephanie and Mat are exploring a cafe in Croydon to meet at, which will be run on certain Sundays. We will get back to you soon on how it will be run and what the format will be. Likely it will involve the return of our writing games event with prompts to get you writing and enjoy yourself.

Not currently running: Writers of the South, let’s write: This is for southern Melbourne, down as far as the Clayton and Mentone area. Anyone can attend and join in and write your heart out (and have ice cream).

Not currently running: Writers Workshop: If you want to work through a piece, then come along to the Eltham Library and let us help you create your best work.

Not currently running: Treehouse Writing: Join us in Olinda for a sanctuary in the hills where we write and relax.

www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

More links below

9. All Write! upcoming events

A place where you can write in Melbourne Central. All you do is turn up and write with others. You can chat to other writers as well if you like and grab a bite or a cuppa.

Most of all, enjoy yourself.

www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

More links below

10. We want to hear from you!

Yes, we really do.

We want feedback in any way shape or form. Even if it is to tell us you love us.

Stuff you may wish to reply about for our next Writers Sauce:

1) A few sentences on what writing means to you.

2) A paragraph or two about how you became a writer (or want to).

3) A great skill you picked up regarding editing, writing, publishing, etc.

4) The best place to write.

5) How chatting to others about writing made you a better writer.

11. Join us and we’ll promote you

You’re Not Alone

Come take the journey with us

Become a member for $20 per year. We would also like to stress that if you can not afford the $20, we would like you as a member anyway. You can pay WWC when you have the money available.

This is a collaborative group created so that in greater numbers we will be heard rather than forgotten

JOIN

Your $20 helps to pay for the website and member writers platforms

12. Essential Information

Sites Authors Should Know

This is an unofficial list I have created as a useful writer’s tool. I receive no royalties, or kickbacks from any sites below. Use as advice only.

-(Dean MacAllister)

Smashwords- Creates and publishes E-books in all formats for free.

Takes some getting used to and has to be done properly. For a small fee people on site will convert your file through the “meat-grinder” converter for you.

Kindlepreneur- Writer who joined most author sites to compare.

Links to the best author friendly tools. Marketing advice included. Free website with free manuals. (Highly recommended!)

Goodreads- Author/Reader site. Many discussion forums. Very popular. Good place to find fans, create an author profile and source reviews.

Librarything- Poor-man’s version of Goodreads, but much less commercial.

13. Important Links

Post news about your writing, book launch, events, or event just a link to your latest blog/post/tweet: www.facebook.com/groups/1629658520414716

Important information about writing in general, and the Melbourne Writers Group: www.facebook.com/MelbWriters

Discuss anything you like that’s creative: www.facebook.com/groups/169777419779168

For people who want to discuss writing on a forum that is for everyone around the world: www.facebook.com/groups/570847673015529

Information on writing, writing competitions, professional editing, getting published, and more. Become a member for discounts: www.worldwriterscollective.com

Near Melbourne? Come to our group and meet other writers and chat. Everyone is welcome: www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

Previous email-outs with great information.www.worldwriterscollective.com/writers-sauce

The Story Mint newsletter for even more information. Subscribe here: www.thestorymint.com

Unsubscribe?

Reply and type in the heading: CANCEL EMAIL-OUT

Writers Sauce – WWC

World Writers Collective

Categories: Writing Groups Tags: author, books, creative writing, publishers, publishing, writer, writers, writing, writing-community

Writers Sauce – WWC – MWS 21-October-2023

21 October 2023 matclarke Leave a comment

Writers Sauce – WWC – MWS 21-October-2023

Welcome to Writers Sauce. We have one new topic for you to check out and it’s all about writing. See CONTENTS below.

Here’s what Christopher Kong said about World Writers Collective:

“Hi Mat – I came across your World Writers Collective site, including your post covering ‘editing tips’.

I’ve been working on a piece of creative non-fiction. Look forward to connecting and exchanging more ideas (and writing?) with each other!”

And Sergio about Melbourne Writers Social Group:

Hi Mat, I feel like I should grab you at least a couple of beers and a nice pub meal. It’s the least I can do to say thanks. I have no clue about being a writer and your help has been invaluable.

Kind regards

Sergio

Matt and Roger are our newest subscribers. We now have 381 subscribers. You’ve joined a great group of writers 🙂

If anyone would like to invite friends to join us, forward this email to anyone anywhere in the world.

World Writers Collective collaborates together with writers, editors and many other kinds of artists / creatives in all industries. We have actors, directors, illustrators, musicians and screen writers in the one place all eager for you to enjoy their work

Join us as a subscriber or as a writer if you would like your own promotional page on our website. To have a page on our website it costs $20 a year. Included are some minor discounts and the ability to advertise yourself for free to our subscribers.

Everyone who works on this website does so for free.

We would also like to stress that if you can not afford the $20, we would like you as a member anyway. You can pay WWC when you have the money available.

www.worldwriterscollective.com/wwc

If you want to add to this email with your own words of wisdom, please let us know. We can also/otherwise add info to our NEWS section on the WWC website.

It’s all done for free and it’s off our own back. Please get involved if you have the time.

Thank you,

Mat Clarke

www.worldwriterscollective.com/mat-carke

Contents:

(Look for the *NEW* stamp below for content you haven’t read yet)

1. Book Review (more reviews on books wanted)

2. Writing competitions – suspended until a new manager volunteers

3. Promote your blog

4. Roger Wakelin’s talk on the financial process of publishing on Amazon *NEW*

5. The Story Mint: Stylefit

6. Where to Go and Write During Happy Hour

7. Writer volunteer Jobs

8. Melbourne Writers Social Group events

9. All Write! upcoming events

10. We want to hear from you

11. Join us and we’ll promote you

12. Essential Information for Writers

13. Important links

–

1. Review a book title – It will be posted on the WWC website

For 2023 please review any book or script or poetry you like (yes, you can submit a review done on your story if you like).

Here’s a review of ‘The Man Behind the Mask’ by Rachel Martigan – A Regency Romance.

I struggled today and yesterday 🤣, having to work, when I just wanted to keep reading.

There was unexpected events, times where I was nervous about what the outcome might be, and happy bits.

Such a great read, you’ve done such a great job with both books.

So, when is the next book out?

I’m such a romance junkie, I can’t get enough.

Well done

All three reviews: https://www.amazon.com.au/gp/profile/amzn1.account.AERDMS7R4XWAMTDMWAS7A5C3PAGQ/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_gw_tr?ie=UTF8

The book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Man-Behind-Mask-Rachel-Martigan/dp/B09RJYT9N4/ref=cm_cr_srp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Here’s a review by Denise Kuchmar of Cecile Ravell’s creative memoir: ravellc.wixsite.com/ravell-the-writer

It’s a hard story to put down.”

Denise Kuchmar, Journalist.

Pre-order autographed copy: ravellc@yahoo.com.au

2. Competitions

Current and upcoming competitions have been suspended for now until we find a manager.

WANTED: competition manager

Short story competitions – World Writers Collective

A. The big one – WWC Golden Pen Award – Win $250 First Prize

All winners will be published in the anthology.

We may need to halt competitions after this latest big prize due to not having a competitions manager. If you would like to become the manager, please let Mat Clarke know.

Coming up (TBA):
The Quick Creative – limited words and limited time. Join us and win cash!

www.worldwriterscollective.com/writing-competitions

www.worldwriterscollective.com/editing-tips

www.worldwriterscollective.com

Become a World Writers Collective member, which helps support everyone in the group as indie writers and allows you to collect prizes if you win.

www.worldwriterscollective.com/join

If you are one of the top winners of the competition, you will be included in the next anthology. That’s just one of the great reasons to get involved!

We also want to promote you and your writing. All you have to do is say the word. When you are a member, it’s free!

3. Promote your blog

We want to promote your blog. Email us a link of one of your blogs and an explanation of why WWC people would enjoy reading it.

We want to promote your blog. Email us a link of one of your blogs and an explanation of why WWC people would enjoy reading it.

Here’s a few from Magz Morgan and the positive comment she received:

www.magzmorgan.com/blog

THANK you both, and the writers’ collective for all the moral support. When I get a message like this, I feel like crying. Maggie

Linda Douglas

Here’s another by Cecile Ravell

https://ravellc.wixsite.com/ravell-the-writer/blog

4. Roger Wakelin’s talk on the financial process of publishing on Amazon

By Mat Clarke for Roger Wakelin

Roger has published two books on Amazon this year – one science fiction, and one on Aussie yarns. Recently, Roger agreed to talk about his take on self-publishing at our writers’ group, where we regularly meet to discuss writing and share our work . Below, he has listed information to help you decide on a path that will work best for you as you navigate the Amazon process of publishing.

AN EXAMPLE OF KINDLE’S PRICE POLICY

KINDLE EBOOK CALCULATIONS (Rounded)

In Australia to obtain Amazon’s 70% royalty rate, the Amazon.au eBooks List Price must be between A$3.99 A$11.99. Below A$3.99 and above A$11.99 the ebook royalty rate is 30%. & Amazon’s cost is their profit rate (either 30% or 70%) minus the delivery cost and how many e-pages are downloaded.

Example TWO WORLDS (279 e-pages)	Marketplace	List Price	List Price Minus GST	Amazon delivery cost for 279 e-pages	List Price Minus Delivery Cost	Author Profit Rate Percentage	Royality (Your cut)
ebook	Amazon.au	$3.99	$3.63	$0.06	$3.57	70%	$2.50
ebook	Amazon.au	$1.50	$1.35	$0.06	$1.29	30%	$0.39

AMAZON PRINT PAPERBACK CALCULATIONS (Rounded)

Amazon states their print paperback royalty rate is 60% of List Price. (60% of $17.64 = $10.58). From the List Price before GST, Amazon subtracts printing costs depending on the trim size, page count, ink type, misc. costs, and the Amazon marketplace your paperback was ordered from. However, Amazon’s profit includes part of the printing and trim, etc., cost.

Example TWO WORLDS (276 pages)	Marketplace	Amazon.au List incl GST (sell) Price	Aus List Price Before GST	Printing/trim/Misc cost Sydney	Amazon Profit	Author’s Profit added	Author Royality (Your Cut)
Print/paperback	Amazon.au	$19.40	$17.64	$8.49	$7.15	$2.00	$2.00

To sell their books, the author calculates what they are prepared to accept as profit verses the market average, and their place in the hierarchy of authors. As a new writer, my profit of A$2.00, which keeps the Amazon print paperback List Price below A$20.00. An author’s copy allows the author to check their actual book. It is charged at the print cost. TWO WORLDS cost $8.47. The Authors Copy has a grey band around the book with several phrases Not for Resale printed across the band.

THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM

US law – state – 30% of profits are withheld by Amazon, unless the author has a TIN (American Identification Number). To circumnavigate this, the author applies for a US TIN. Then, Amazon holds only 5% instead of 30%. TIN types and how to get one:

https://www.investopedia.com/terms/t/tax-indentification-number-tin.asp

The Secret Sauce

Regarding Amazon sales. Obtain a TIN, market professionally and sell squillions of books. Check out the best-selling authors online…

You’ll find my books on Amazon.

TWO WORLDS: IS THEIR PAST EARTH’S FUTURE. https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0645444219

POCKETBOOK OF AUSSIE YARNS. TALL TALES AROUND THE BBQ. https://www.amazon.com.au/Pocketbook-Aussie-Yarns-Tales-Around-ebook/dp/B0CGPS8HT4

You are welcome to contact me for a chat. My Website is https://www.roger-wakelin.com/

Email me at rogerwakelin.author@gmail.com or ring me on 0429 036 524.

5. The Story Mint: Stylefit

Student Writing Competition

Open for participation enquiries and entry submissions

We hope we can achieve that once more with out 2022 NZ student writing competition! It’s now up and running, so we invite class groups or individual students to participate!

Our two biggest goals are:

– show students that writing (and learning writing skills) can be fun

– improve students’ writing skills by increasing confidence, self-direction and agency

6. Where to Write During Happy Hour

by Mat Clarke

What you can do:

A game will usually be on so you can cheer and enjoy the excitement.

One of the friendly staff will be happy to chat and talk about what you can see and do nearby.

The sponsored part:

If you want to spend these great moments with writers or other people who share your many interests, but you’re yet to find friends in Melbourne, or all your friends are busy, then sign up to www.friendlyfamiliars.com and find someone who gets you. There’s so much to do now, so it would be even better if you were not doing it alone.

7. Writer volunteer jobs

Opportunities:

Manager of writing competitions

Website manager

Information officer

Assistant to managers and officers

Writing Competition Judges

Event host – multiple required (Melbourne only)

Further details: www.worldwriterscollective.com/job-vacancies

These are all volunteer positions.

Your position includes free membership, a discount for any events you attend, free access to catering (if supplied) and an allowance for the manager positions (see position details).

Commit for 12 months or longer.

8. Melbourne Writers Social events

Recently we discussed how to win writing competitions and what judges look for. If you would like to learn more, check out our website: www.worldwriterscollective.com/writing-competitions

www.facebook.com/groups/570847673015529

www.facebook.com/groups/169777419779168

Mat Clarke – link to me and find others: www.goodreads.com/author/show/6898385.Mat_Clarke

Our main flagship event runs at the Wharf Hotel on the third Tuesday of the month. Please join us – all are welcome, even if you are only thinking of starting out in a creative field.

Click here to RSVP, check time and place of events: www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

We meet online every Monday from 6.30pm and show each other our work and chat about everything creative.

In South Bank each month for the next six or so months we are running a workshop on audio book creation. Please join us for an enjoyable information session. See Meetup for details.

Not currently running: Writers Workshop: If you want to work through a piece, then come along to the Eltham Library and let us help you create your best work.

Not currently running: Treehouse Writing: Join us in Olinda for a sanctuary in the hills where we write and relax.

www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

More links below

9. All Write! upcoming events

A place where you can write in Melbourne Central. All you do is turn up and write with others. You can chat to other writers as well if you like and grab a bite or a cuppa.

Most of all, enjoy yourself.

www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

More links below

10. We want to hear from you!

Yes, we really do.

We want feedback in any way shape or form. Even if it is to tell us you love us.

Stuff you may wish to reply about for our next Writers Sauce:

1) A few sentences on what writing means to you.

2) A paragraph or two about how you became a writer (or want to).

3) A great skill you picked up regarding editing, writing, publishing, etc.

4) The best place to write.

5) How chatting to others about writing made you a better writer.

11. Join us and we’ll promote you

You’re Not Alone

Come take the journey with us

Become a member for $20 per year. We would also like to stress that if you can not afford the $20, we would like you as a member anyway. You can pay WWC when you have the money available.

This is a collaborative group created so that in greater numbers we will be heard rather than forgotten

JOIN

Your $20 helps to pay for the website and member writers platforms

12. Essential Information

Sites Authors Should Know

This is an unofficial list I have created as a useful writer’s tool. I receive no royalties, or kickbacks from any sites below. Use as advice only.

-(Dean MacAllister)

Smashwords- Creates and publishes E-books in all formats for free.

Takes some getting used to and has to be done properly. For a small fee people on site will convert your file through the “meat-grinder” converter for you.

Kindlepreneur- Writer who joined most author sites to compare.

Links to the best author friendly tools. Marketing advice included. Free website with free manuals. (Highly recommended!)

Goodreads- Author/Reader site. Many discussion forums. Very popular. Good place to find fans, create an author profile and source reviews.

Librarything- Poor-man’s version of Goodreads, but much less commercial.

13. Important Links

Post news about your writing, book launch, events, or event just a link to your latest blog/post/tweet: www.facebook.com/groups/1629658520414716

Important information about writing in general, and the Melbourne Writers Group: www.facebook.com/MelbWriters

Discuss anything you like that’s creative: www.facebook.com/groups/169777419779168

For people who want to discuss writing on a forum that is for everyone around the world: www.facebook.com/groups/570847673015529

Information on writing, writing competitions, professional editing, getting published, and more. Become a member for discounts: www.worldwriterscollective.com

Near Melbourne? Come to our group and meet other writers and chat. Everyone is welcome: www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

Previous email-outs with great information.www.worldwriterscollective.com/writers-sauce

The Story Mint newsletter for even more information. Subscribe here: www.thestorymint.com

Writers Sauce – WWC

World Writers Collective

Categories: Writing Groups Tags: author, friendlyfamiliars, selfpublish, writers

Writers Sauce – WWC – MWS 09-October-2023

9 October 2023 matclarke Leave a comment

Writers Sauce – WWC – MWS 09–October-2023

Welcome to Writers Sauce. We have two new topics for you to check out and it’s all about writing. See CONTENTS below.

Here’s what Christopher Kong said about World Writers Collective:

“Hi Mat – I came across your World Writers Collective site, including your post covering ‘editing tips’.

I’ve been working on a piece of creative non-fiction. Look forward to connecting and exchanging more ideas (and writing?) with each other!”

And Sergio about Melbourne Writers Social Group:

Hi Mat, I feel like I should grab you at least a couple of beers and a nice pub meal. It’s the least I can do to say thanks. I have no clue about being a writer and your help has been invaluable.

Kind regards

Sergio

Luc, Antonio, Sanjay, Jamie, Jillian, Lisa, Brad, Roger,, Kale, Priscila, Kate, Teja, Mark, Michelle, Bronwyn, Lee, Giles, Graham, Rodney, essie, Forrest, Margot, Aditi, Matt, Kale and Sean are our newest subscribers. We now have 398 subscribers. You’ve joined a great group of writers 🙂

If anyone would like to invite friends to join us, forward this email to anyone anywhere in the world.

World Writers Collective collaborates together with writers, editors and many other kinds of artists / creatives in all industries. We have actors, directors, illustrators, musicians and screen writers in the one place all eager for you to enjoy their work

Everyone who works on this website does so for free.

We would also like to stress that if you can not afford the $20, we would like you as a member anyway. You can pay WWC when you have the money available.

www.worldwriterscollective.com/wwc

If you want to add to this email with your own words of wisdom, please let us know. We can also/otherwise add info to our NEWS section on the WWC website.

It’s all done for free and it’s off our own back. Please get involved if you have the time.

Thank you,

Mat Clarke

www.worldwriterscollective.com/mat-carke

Contents:

(Look for the *NEW* stamp below for content you haven’t read yet)

1. Book Review (more reviews on books wanted)

2. Writing competitions – suspended until a new manager volunteers

3. Promote your blog

4. James Pletch’s talk on The Benefits of Reading *NEW*

5. The Story Mint: Stylefit

6. Where to Go and Write During Happy Hour *NEW*

7. Writer volunteer Jobs

8. Melbourne Writers Social Group events

9. All Write! upcoming events

10. We want to hear from you

11. Join us and we’ll promote you

12. Essential Information for Writers

13. Important links

–

1. Review a book title – It will be posted on the WWC website

For 2023 please review any book or script or poetry you like (yes, you can submit a review done on your story if you like).

Here’s a review of ‘The Man Behind the Mask’ by Rachel Martigan – A Regency Romance.

I struggled today and yesterday, having to work, when I just wanted to keep reading.

There was unexpected events, times where I was nervous about what the outcome might be, and happy bits.

Such a great read, you’ve done such a great job with both books.

So, when is the next book out?

I’m such a romance junkie, I can’t get enough.

Well done

All three reviews: https://www.amazon.com.au/gp/profile/amzn1.account.AERDMS7R4XWAMTDMWAS7A5C3PAGQ/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_gw_tr?ie=UTF8

The book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Man-Behind-Mask-Rachel-Martigan/dp/B09RJYT9N4/ref=cm_cr_srp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Here’s a review by Denise Kuchmar of Cecile Ravell’s creative memoir: ravellc.wixsite.com/ravell-the-writer

Review of Dilemmas of a Middle-aged Madonna:
“Traversing the world, from Far North Queensland to Nova Scotia, Canada, and New York City, Jessica tries to work out the cards life has dealt her. A uniquely visual story that sees the main character experience many journeys: physically, emotionally, and metaphorically. Will she overcome the dilemmas in her life?

It’s a hard story to put down.”

Denise Kuchmar, Journalist.

Pre-order autographed copy: ravellc@yahoo.com.au

2. Competitions

Current and upcoming competitions have been suspended for now until we find a manager.

WANTED: competition manager

Short story competitions – World Writers Collective

A. The big one – WWC Golden Pen Award – Win $250 First Prize

All winners will be published in the anthology.

We may need to halt competitions after this latest big prize due to not having a competitions manager. If you would like to become the manager, please let Mat Clarke know.

Coming up (TBA):
The Quick Creative – limited words and limited time. Join us and win cash!

www.worldwriterscollective.com/writing-competitions

www.worldwriterscollective.com/editing-tips

www.worldwriterscollective.com

Become a World Writers Collective member, which helps support everyone in the group as indie writers and allows you to collect prizes if you win.

www.worldwriterscollective.com/join

If you are one of the top winners of the competition, you will be included in the next anthology. That’s just one of the great reasons to get involved!

We also want to promote you and your writing. All you have to do is say the word. When you are a member, it’s free!

3. Promote your blog

We want to promote your blog. Email us a link of one of your blogs and an explanation of why WWC people would enjoy reading it.

We want to promote your blog. Email us a link of one of your blogs and an explanation of why WWC people would enjoy reading it.

Here’s a few from Magz Morgan and the positive comment she received:

www.magzmorgan.com/blog

THANK you both, and the writers’ collective for all the moral support. When I get a message like this, I feel like crying. Maggie

Linda Douglas

Here’s another by Cecile Ravell

https://ravellc.wixsite.com/ravell-the-writer/blog

4. James Pletch’s talk on The Benefits of Reading

By Mat Clarke for James Pletch

Jim (James) is in the process of publishing his spiritual self-help book Finding Spiritual Strength. Stories From the Frontline of Life. Loving Values From Across the Humanitarian and Spiritual Traditions.

To our benefit, Jim talked about the benefits of writing on Tuesday and was hoping all you at home could benefit from it as well. Here are the main points:

l Research has shown there are serious benefits from reading books.

l Reading is more relaxing than even just sitting at rest. It lowers blood pressure. Perhaps it’s the mental escape from our daily life pressures?

l Fifteen minutes of daily reading can dramatically improve people’s happiness and sense of accomplishment.

l Kids who read have much better scholastic scores. Kids whose parents read to them read more. Kids who own a book or books read more than kids who do not. It seems that the act of owning a book of their own motivates kids to read more. Also, more books in the home lead kids to read more.

l People who read more have better focus, better vocabulary, better mental stimulation, and better knowledge acquisition.

l People who read are more empathetic because reading takes them into other people’s lives and gets them away from unhealthy self-absorption.

l American psychology professor Jean Twenge studies generational psychology. In her book Igen she studied young people born since 1995, generation Z. They have grown up with the internet in their hand in smartphones since 2011. American teens check their phones more than 80 times a day. They spend 6 hours a day on their phones and devices and 2 hours on TV, sometimes multi-tasking. Since 2012 she found a worrying dramatic increase in young people’s mental health problems, which she attributes to this enormous amount of screen time.

l She found young people who spend a lot of time on their screens were less happy, more lonely, get less sleep, are more prone to depression and mental health issues, have an increased risk of suicide, and possess lower in-person social skills.

l She found better outcomes for happiness and mental health and in-person social skills in young people who – among other things – read physical print media, whether books or magazines. It gets them away from their screens. Other positive attributes for young people include more exercise, and more in-person social activities – like sport, or anything that is healthily socially engaging.

5. The Story Mint: Stylefit

Student Writing Competition

Open for participation enquiries and entry submissions

We hope we can achieve that once more with out 2022 NZ student writing competition! It’s now up and running, so we invite class groups or individual students to participate!

Our two biggest goals are:

– show students that writing (and learning writing skills) can be fun

– improve students’ writing skills by increasing confidence, self-direction and agency

6. Where to Write During Happy Hour

by Mat Clarke

What you can do:

A game will usually be on so you can cheer and enjoy the excitement.

One of the friendly staff will be happy to chat and talk about what you can see and do nearby.

The sponsored part:

If you want to spend these great moments with writers or other people who share your many interests, but you’re yet to find friends in Melbourne, or all your friends are busy, then sign up to www.friendlyfamiliars.com and find someone who gets you. There’s so much to do now, so it would be even better if you were not doing it alone.

7. Writer volunteer jobs

Opportunities:

Manager of writing competitions

Website manager

Information officer

Assistant to managers and officers

Writing Competition Judges

Event host – multiple required (Melbourne only)

Further details: www.worldwriterscollective.com/job-vacancies

These are all volunteer positions.

Your position includes free membership, a discount for any events you attend, free access to catering (if supplied) and an allowance for the manager positions (see position details).

Commit for 12 months or longer.

8. Melbourne Writers Social events

Recently we discussed how to win writing competitions and what judges look for. If you would like to learn more, check out our website: www.worldwriterscollective.com/writing-competitions

www.facebook.com/groups/570847673015529

www.facebook.com/groups/169777419779168

Mat Clarke – link to me and find others: www.goodreads.com/author/show/6898385.Mat_Clarke

Our main flagship event runs at the Wharf Hotel on the third Tuesday of the month. Please join us – all are welcome, even if you are only thinking of starting out in a creative field.

Click here to RSVP, check time and place of events: www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

We meet online every Monday from 6.30pm and show each other our work and chat about everything creative.

In South Bank each month for the next six or so months we are running a workshop on audio book creation. Please join us for an enjoyable information session. See Meetup for details.

Not currently running: Writers Workshop: If you want to work through a piece, then come along to the Eltham Library and let us help you create your best work.

Not currently running: Treehouse Writing: Join us in Olinda for a sanctuary in the hills where we write and relax.

www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

More links below

9. All Write! upcoming events

A place where you can write in Melbourne Central. All you do is turn up and write with others. You can chat to other writers as well if you like and grab a bite or a cuppa.

Most of all, enjoy yourself.

www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

More links below

10. We want to hear from you!

Yes, we really do.

We want feedback in any way shape or form. Even if it is to tell us you love us.

Stuff you may wish to reply about for our next Writers Sauce:

1) A few sentences on what writing means to you.

2) A paragraph or two about how you became a writer (or want to).

3) A great skill you picked up regarding editing, writing, publishing, etc.

4) The best place to write.

5) How chatting to others about writing made you a better writer.

11. Join us and we’ll promote you

You’re Not Alone

Come take the journey with us

Become a member for $20 per year. We would also like to stress that if you can not afford the $20, we would like you as a member anyway. You can pay WWC when you have the money available.

This is a collaborative group created so that in greater numbers we will be heard rather than forgotten

JOIN

Your $20 helps to pay for the website and member writers platforms

12. Essential Information

Sites Authors Should Know

This is an unofficial list I have created as a useful writer’s tool. I receive no royalties, or kickbacks from any sites below. Use as advice only.

-(Dean MacAllister)

Smashwords- Creates and publishes E-books in all formats for free.

Takes some getting used to and has to be done properly. For a small fee people on site will convert your file through the “meat-grinder” converter for you.

Kindlepreneur- Writer who joined most author sites to compare.

Links to the best author friendly tools. Marketing advice included. Free website with free manuals. (Highly recommended!)

Goodreads- Author/Reader site. Many discussion forums. Very popular. Good place to find fans, create an author profile and source reviews.

Librarything- Poor-man’s version of Goodreads, but much less commercial.

13. Important Links

Post news about your writing, book launch, events, or event just a link to your latest blog/post/tweet: www.facebook.com/groups/1629658520414716

Important information about writing in general, and the Melbourne Writers Group: www.facebook.com/MelbWriters

Discuss anything you like that’s creative: www.facebook.com/groups/169777419779168

For people who want to discuss writing on a forum that is for everyone around the world: www.facebook.com/groups/570847673015529

Information on writing, writing competitions, professional editing, getting published, and more. Become a member for discounts: www.worldwriterscollective.com

Near Melbourne? Come to our group and meet other writers and chat. Everyone is welcome: www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

Previous email-outs with great information.www.worldwriterscollective.com/writers-sauce

The Story Mint newsletter for even more information. Subscribe here: www.thestorymint.com

Unsubscribe?

Reply and type in the heading: CANCEL EMAIL-OUT

Writers Sauce – WWC

World Writers Collective

Categories: Writing Groups Tags: writing, author, publishing, happyhour

Books We Enjoyed That Became Movies or TV Shows

11 September 2023 matclarke 1 comment

I am a fan of Outer Banks because it’s an easy show to watch, has fun themes and reminds me of the adventures I had when I was young and got into mischief. I may not have been searching for treasure like the gang in Outer Banks or falling for rich pretty teens, but don’t worry, nor were the characters in Outer Banks due to them all being portrayed by adults with the average age range of early to mid-twenties. Airing for the first time in April 2020 it’s a competent show with interesting relationships and strong friendships.

They all seemed to have fun playing these larger-than-life lives. Many of us had always hoped our lives would be eternally exciting and fun, but most of us instead have jobs and responsibilities and work toward saving enough superannuation so we aren’t put into state care. Needless to say, there were many middle-age adults who loved watching the show as well as the younger generations. It’s certainly a show for everyone.

So what made the show so appealing? Some say it was the amount of freedom and improvisation the actors had. Many times during filming they broke away from what they were supposed to say and instead did what they wanted to do. Maybe this is what took the show in a more unique direction. It’s probably why the scenes seem so natural and free. Although I’m sure the many cameras, lights and michrophone booms made it feel less natural, but that aside, I bet it helped with the overall end result.

Did you know Braveheart was a book? I loved the movie so I read the novella and found it to contain all the same adventures and turmoil, but also with a trip to another land that maybe you did not know about and might find interesting. Have a read and see.

Lee Child wrote the Killing Floor back in 1997 and it won the Anthony Award and the Barry Award for best first novel. No wonder it was made into a movie and then TV series. It’s a good read (I’m only a third of the way through). I have to say, I like the most recent TV series the most, though.

The one book I hope is eventually made into a series, which has all the right action, suspense and adventure that is in most great stories, just like Outer Banks, is: Don’t Kill Benjamin. The characters are in their twenties and waiting tables along the strip in Calais. They are a group of friends who have become involved in the rescue of a young orphan child who was taken from a hospital following a murder. It’s only when they are getting close to finding the kidnapper do they realise their adventure goes beyond a single man’s heinous act.

Comment below on what books you enjoyed reading that were also TV shows or movies.

Categories: Best Thrillers, Buy Novel Tags: action novels 2023, great books this year, great thrillers, outer banks

Writers Sauce – WWC – MWS 10-July-2023

10 July 2023 matclarke Leave a comment

Writers Sauce – WWC – MWS 10–July-2023

Welcome to Writers Sauce. We have one new topic for you to check out and it’s all about writing. See CONTENTS below.

Here’s what Christopher Kong said about World Writers Collective:

“Hi Mat – I came across your World Writers Collective site, including your post covering ‘editing tips’.

I’ve been working on a piece of creative non-fiction. Look forward to connecting and exchanging more ideas (and writing?) with each other!”

And Sergio about Melbourne Writers Social Group:

Hi Mat, I feel like I should grab you at least a couple of beers and a nice pub meal. It’s the least I can do to say thanks. I have no clue about being a writer and your help has been invaluable.

Kind regards

Sergio

Phil, Joseph, Susanne, Luke, Noel, Prashama, Oliver, Kirk, Giles, Walter, Paul, Laura, Vivek, Artemis, Tim, Paul and Vikki are our newest subscribers. We now have 385 subscribers. You’ve joined a great group of writers 🙂

If anyone would like to invite friends to join us, forward this email to anyone anywhere in the world.

World Writers Collective collaborates together with writers, editors and many other kinds of artists / creatives in all industries. We have actors, directors, illustrators, musicians and screen writers in the one place all eager for you to enjoy their work

Everyone who works on this website does so for free.

We would also like to stress that if you can not afford the $20, we would like you as a member anyway. You can pay WWC when you have the money available.

www.worldwriterscollective.com/wwc

If you want to add to this email with your own words of wisdom, please let us know. We can also/otherwise add info to our NEWS section on the WWC website.

It’s all done for free and it’s off our own back. Please get involved if you have the time.

Thank you,

Mat Clarke

www.worldwriterscollective.com/mat-carke

Contents:

(Look for the *NEW* stamp below for content you haven’t read yet)

1. Book Review (more reviews on books wanted)

2. Writing competitions – suspended until a new manager volunteers

3. Promote your blog

4. Vikki Holstein’s talk on getting published *NEW*

5. The Story Mint: Stylefit

6. Writing, editing, predicates, grammar and sentence structure.

7. Writer volunteer Jobs

8. Melbourne Writers Social Group events

9. All Write! upcoming events

10. We want to hear from you

11. Join us and we’ll promote you

12. Essential Information for Writers

13. Important links

–

1. Review a book title – It will be posted on the WWC website

For 2023 please review any book or script or poetry you like (yes, you can submit a review done on your story if you like).

Here’s a review of ‘The Man Behind the Mask’ by Rachel Martigan – A Regency Romance.

I struggled today and yesterday ��, having to work, when I just wanted to keep reading.

There was unexpected events, times where I was nervous about what the outcome might be, and happy bits.

Such a great read, you’ve done such a great job with both books.

So, when is the next book out?

I’m such a romance junkie, I can’t get enough.

Well done

All three reviews: https://www.amazon.com.au/gp/profile/amzn1.account.AERDMS7R4XWAMTDMWAS7A5C3PAGQ/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_gw_tr?ie=UTF8

The book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Man-Behind-Mask-Rachel-Martigan/dp/B09RJYT9N4/ref=cm_cr_srp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Here’s a review by Denise Kuchmar of Cecile Ravell’s creative memoir: ravellc.wixsite.com/ravell-the-writer

It’s a hard story to put down.”

Denise Kuchmar, Journalist.

Pre-order autographed copy: ravellc@yahoo.com.au

2. Competitions

Current and upcoming competitions have been suspended for now until we find a manager.

WANTED: competition manager

Short story competitions – World Writers Collective

A. The big one – WWC Golden Pen Award – Win $250 First Prize

All winners will be published in the anthology.

We may need to halt competitions after this latest big prize due to not having a competitions manager. If you would like to become the manager, please let Mat Clarke know.

Coming up (TBA):
The Quick Creative – limited words and limited time. Join us and win cash!

www.worldwriterscollective.com/writing-competitions

www.worldwriterscollective.com/editing-tips

www.worldwriterscollective.com

Become a World Writers Collective member, which helps support everyone in the group as indie writers and allows you to collect prizes if you win.

www.worldwriterscollective.com/join

If you are one of the top winners of the competition, you will be included in the next anthology. That’s just one of the great reasons to get involved!

We also want to promote you and your writing. All you have to do is say the word. When you are a member, it’s free!

3. Promote your blog

We want to promote your blog. Email us a link of one of your blogs and an explanation of why WWC people would enjoy reading it.

We want to promote your blog. Email us a link of one of your blogs and an explanation of why WWC people would enjoy reading it.

Here’s a few from Magz Morgan and the positive comment she received:

www.magzmorgan.com/blog

THANK you both, and the writers’ collective for all the moral support. When I get a message like this, I feel like crying. Maggie

Linda Douglas

Here’s another by Cecile Ravell

https://ravellc.wixsite.com/ravell-the-writer/blog

4. Vikki Holstein’s talk on getting published

By Mat Clarke for Vikki Holstein

We were very grateful to have Vikki come to our Tuesday night writer meet in the city and chat to us about her experiences and her persistence in striving to be traditionally published. She began with telling us that “The road to getting published is rarely an easy or fast one. On average, writers have a 19 year apprenticeship of learning the craft before their work is ready to query.”

When you think of that kind of lag between when you first decide you want to publish to when you actually snag a publisher who is interested in putting your book on the shelf, you realise that you not only have a long road of hard work in front of you, but you have to keep pushing forward no matter the hurdles set before you.

Vikki went on to say, “For those of us with multiple projects on the go, no one will ever read your unfinished story. Pick one and finish it.”

If your goal is to be published, you need to at least finish a book. It may sound obvious, but if you start your book and never finish it, you will join a long list of people who have done the same.

What about publishers? Well, Vikki had this to say, “Research any potential publishers. How long have they been in business and how many authors they have. Ask writer friends from your writer group if they have had dealings with them. A new publishing house that has contracted too many authors can easily go bust.”

When a publisher is interested in your work, Vikki said, “Be prepared for edits. Rarely will your original story be the one that is published. A good editor will help make your story shine, and their knowledge is invaluable.”

Vikki also touched on the topic of pen names. “Pen names for writing in multiple genres. My White Wattle Creek series is a romantic suspense, and explores darker themes that won’t be appropriate for my soon to be published YA dystopian fantasy series, so a pen name will be a must for me.”

After some questions from our group of writers, which Vikki happily answered, she added, “A published author is a writer who never gave up.”

Thanks Vikki!

Vikki Holstein has been writing for 24 years, has a four book publishing contract with Vulpine Press, and has two books currently published.

Her romantic suspense series, White Wattle Creek, deals with the aftermath of abuse, her characters going from insecure and scared, to finding their inner strength and accepting the trust and love from those closest to them.

Good reads https://www.goodreads.com/vikkiholstein-writer

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/vikkiholsteinwriter

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/vikkiholstein_writer

Amazon https://amazon.com/author/vikkiholstein

WordPress https://vikkiholstein.wordpress.com

5. The Story Mint: Stylefit

Student Writing Competition

Open for participation enquiries and entry submissions

We hope we can achieve that once more with out 2022 NZ student writing competition! It’s now up and running, so we invite class groups or individual students to participate!

Our two biggest goals are:

– show students that writing (and learning writing skills) can be fun

– improve students’ writing skills by increasing confidence, self-direction and agency

6. Writing, editing, predicates, grammar and sentence structure

by Mat Clarke

After an endless string of violent fights with writers and editors which led to blood noses, broken fists and an intervention order, I decided to go in search for some tips on writing and editing so that we could settle this conflict before an unholy war began between the people who believe writing and editing is solely a subjective art, and those who believe writers should should learn all the rules before they can begin bending or breaking them, is settled by the extermination of every living thing on the planet.

This is the most basic writing skill when writing a good sentence:

Start with a subject, then verb, then object.

John played under the setting sun.

John is the subject.

Played is the verb.

The setting sun is the object (yes, setting is a verb too).

The subject is the “who” or “what” of the sentence, the predicate is the verb, and the object is any noun or concept that is part of the action of the subject.

The object can sometimes be a word that is left out and assumed to be “you” or other.

Here’s another way of saying the above:

SVC

An effective sentence structure is often SVC (subject, verb, complement, with ‘complement’ meaning the rest of the sentence). You can use a short phrase to introduce such sentences.

In 2015, the group (subject) met (verb) for the last time (complement).

At other times, you may wish to start a sentence with a dependent clause for emphasis. Such sentences often start with Although or While.

Although the lawyers went through every clause in the contract, the client still had objections.

You can improve your sentence structure by:

Having the main verb near the beginning of the sentence

Starting with a real subject, not a false subject (There is, It is)

Using which and while with caution

It is of utmost importance that… (false subject)

Got all that?

Hang on! What the hell is a predicate, a dependent clause and all that other stuff you said?

Compound sentences

Compound sentences have two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction. The coordinating conjunctions can be summarised by the acronym FANBOYS – for, and, nor, but, or, yet and so.

Use a comma to separate two independent clauses, unless the clauses are short and the meaning is clear without a comma.

Monday was a rainy day and the workers stayed home.

We were about to sign the contract, but the owners changed their minds.

Complex sentences

Complex sentences have an independent clause and one or more dependent clauses (cannot exist independently). They are useful for commenting on your main idea.

Although it rained on Monday (dependent clause), the work continued (independent clause).

Compound-complex sentences

Compound-complex sentences have more than one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.

What is a clause in a sentence?

A clause, like a phrase, is a group of words. But unlike a phrase, a clause is pretty complete. A clause is a group of words that contains both a subject and a predicate.

What is a predicate?

The predicate is what the subject is up to. In other words, the predicate “completes an idea about the subject,” according to Wikipedia. For example: John got out of the ruined car, and he laughed uproariously.

A subject almost always includes a noun (there are some exceptions), but a predicate must include a verb.

Predicates always include at least one verb to represent the action, even if that verb is be.

At the meeting, which was held on Monday, the lawyers drafted the terms of the contract, but the client objected to them.

F: for: The teachers were frustrated, for the school had cut funding for all enrichment programs.*

A: and: In this course, I will write a literature review, a case study, and a final paper.**

N: nor: The students did not complete their homework, nor did they pass the test.

B: but: The study is several years old but still valuable to this study.

O: or: At the end of the class, the students can choose to write an essay or take a test.

Y: yet: The patient complained of chronic pain, yet she refused treatment.

S: so: I have only been a nurse for one year, so I have little experience with paper charting.

Quick note:

(An inexperienced writer uses conjunctions in order to insert multiple thoughts into one sentence. Examples of conjunctions are: and, then, but, however, or, even.)

* “For” is rarely used as a conjunction in modern English.

** When the conjunctions “and” and “or” connect three or more words or phrases, use a serial comma to separate items in the series. Although I have found that many people don’t think a serial comma is required.

Transitional words such as “however” and “therefore” can also function as conjunctions:

The authors agreed on the prevalence of the problem; however, they disagreed on the problem’s cause.

Several employees complained about the new policies, and therefore, the manager held an all-staff meeting to address their concerns.

Sometimes, a comma before or after then is necessary, but it depends on the situation. You should generally only use a comma before then when it connects two independent clauses or when it acts like an interjection.

If the dependent clause is first (again, rather like an introduction to the main clause), it is followed by a comma (like in this sentence and the next). If the independent clause comes first, no punctuation separates the two.

Independent clauses are also called main clauses, and dependent clauses are also called subordinate clauses.

More info but said in a slightly different way:

The subject is what the sentence is about.

The predicate is what the subject is up to. In other words, the predicate “completes an idea about the subject,” according to Wikipedia.

Sometimes, a subject isn’t included in the sentence but just implied. For example, Don’t drive off bridges! Here, there is no subject, but it’s implied by the context.

When you put a subject and a predicate together, you get a clause! (Yes, like Santa.) The fun thing is you can combine clauses together to form different types of sentences.

A predicate is the grammatical term for the words in a sentence or clause that describe the action but not the subject. In other words, the predicate explains what the subject does. For all intents and purposes, a predicate includes all the words in a sentence or clause except the subject (and words that modify the subject).

Predicates are one of the core building blocks of English sentences, so it’s good to understand how they work.

Common Comma Errors

The following constructions do not require commas:

Months. Do not use a comma when referring to a month within a particular year.

Example: I conducted the study in June 2003.

Complex sentences. Do not use a comma in a sentence that joins an independent clause and a dependent clause.

Example: Smith (2001) found that the results were consistent although some details in the approaches differed.

Introducing quotations (seamless). Do not use a comma when an independent clause seamlessly introduces a quotation.

Example: Freud (1900) claimed that “the dreamer…assumes that the dream–even if it does not come from another world–has at all events transported the dreamer into another world” (p. 5).

Comma splices. A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses (complete sentences) are separated by just a comma.

Example: Jessica and I went to the movies, we had a good time.

There are many ways to correct the sentence above. Review the information on run-on sentences for examples of correctly joining independent clauses.

Join sentences using subordinating conjunctions

In addition to coordination, you can also use subordinating conjunctions to connect sentences. The only difference is that subordinating conjunctions link a main clause and a dependent or subordinate clause. Example:

Juliana went shopping – a main clause

she got her monthly salary – subordinate clause

Juliana went shopping as soon as she got her monthly salary.

You can see in the above example that the main clause makes complete sense on its own but the subordinate clause does not. Thus, it needs the main clause to make meaning, which is why it is called the subordinate clause.

Below is a list of some subordinating conjunctions, their functions and examples of their usage.

Subordinating conjunctions

while, whenever, after, etc

where, anywhere

because, since, as

The lobby group opposed all proposed measures after its leader was reprimanded by the lower court for illegal protest.

There is heavy breeding of mosquitoes where the patients live.

Those in the category of non-obese claim to walk briskly every evening because they know the importance of exercise.

Quick note:

A sentence fragment is an incomplete sentence.

Yeah, right.

Here’s some great tips:

Do use a comma before so if it precedes an independent clause.

Don’t use a comma before so if it precedes a dependent clause.

Do use a comma before but if it precedes an independent clause.

Don’t use a comma before but if it doesn’t precede an independent clause.

Do use a comma before and if it precedes an independent clause.

Don’t use a comma before and if it doesn’t precede an independent clause.

Don’t use a comma before because as a general rule.

Do use a comma before and for the sake of clarity.

I love my dogs, Kesha and Bruno Mars.

When directly addressing a person by name, add a comma after the name.

Charlie, have you ever considered a pet tortoise?

Use a comma to separate independent clauses

Rule: Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (and, but, yet, so, or nor, for) when it joins two complete ideas (independent clauses).

He walked down the street, and then he turned the corner.

You can go shopping with me, or you can go to a movie alone

More tips:

If you can substitute therefore for so in the sentence, then what follows is an independent clause.

The pet store was fresh out of kitten toys; therefore I had to improvise.

Here’s another tip:

If you can add that after so in the sentence, then what follows is a dependent clause.

I scrunched a piece of paper into a ball so that my new kitten could play with it.

Bad Sentence Structure Makes for Weird Sounding Sentences

When you write, you use a different part of the brain than when you speak. That’s why writing can be so hard for many of us. You might communicate perfectly when you talk, but when you write, you stare at the screen for fifteen minutes trying to figure out what to say.

Many people especially struggle with sentence structure. Most of us are taught sentence structure in the third and fourth grade, but we usually forget it just as quickly.

Good writers vary the types of sentences they use. For example, don’t use too many simple sentences. You might sound childish. However, if you use too many compound-complex sentences, your writing might be too difficult to understand.

More on predicates, subjects and stuff:

I ate.

subject: I

predicate: ate

Godzilla roars.

subject: Godzilla

predicate: roars

A predicate can also include other words and phrases that modify the action, such as prepositional phrases or direct and indirect objects.

There are a few different types of predicates, each with its own unique qualities. Let’s take a more detailed look at each now.

ADVANCED LEVEL FROM HERE ON:

What is a simple predicate?

A simple predicate is the most basic form of the predicate. It consists of only the main verb and auxiliary verbs, also known as helper verbs.

The little pig went to the market.

The simple predicate in this example is only the word went.

We have been waiting for hours!

In this example, the simple predicate includes the verb “waiting” and the auxiliary verbs “have” and “been.”

Modal verbs like can, might, will, or must are also auxiliary verbs, so they too are part of the simple predicate.

I might be wrong.

What is a complete predicate?

A complete predicate includes the simple predicate as well as all other words that describe the action. Essentially, the complete predicate is all the words in a sentence or clause except the subject and words that describe the subject.

The little pig went to the market.

Using the example above, “went” is the simple predicate, but the entire phrase “went to the market” is the complete predicate. The modifiers “the” and “little” are not part of the complete predicate because they relate to the subject.

As you can see, the complete predicate can sometimes include nouns like “market” if they’re part of descriptive phrases that do not relate to the subject.

What is a compound predicate?

A compound predicate includes two or more verbs that all share the same subject.

He showered, shaved, and dressed in his finest clothes for his cat’s birthday party.

The verbs “showered,” “shaved,” and “dressed” all use the same subject, “he.” In this example, all the verbs belong to the same clause and therefore to the same compound predicate.

However, be careful with sentences that have more than one clause. In these cases, each clause has its own different predicate.

He showered, shaved, and dressed in his finest clothes for his cat’s birthday party, but the cat never showed.

In this example, there are two separate predicates: the original compound predicate and the second predicate “never showed” that uses a new subject, “the cat.”

What are predicate adjectives and predicate nominatives?

Predicate adjectives and predicate nominatives are special types of predicates used only with linking verbs like be, seem, or become. The action with linking verbs is simply existing, so predicates with linking verbs describe the state of the subject.

A predicate adjective is when the words following a linking verb are adjectives or adjective phrases that modify the subject.

Devaj was happy with the first date.

In this example, the simple predicate is “was,” the past tense of the linking verb be. The adjective “happy” describes the subject “Devaj,” making it a predicate adjective. The prepositional phrase “with the first date” relates to the adjective “happy,” so it too is part of the predicate adjective.

Similarly, a predicate nominative is when the words following a linking verb are nouns or noun phrases, again modifying the subject.

Amirah became the company’s first CEO under the age of 30.

This example also uses a linking verb, this time “became.” Following the verb is a noun phrase centered on the word “CEO,” which describes the subject “Amirah,” making it a predicate nominative. All the words after “became” relate to the noun “CEO,” so they work together as a noun phrase, making them part of the predicate nominative too.

As you can see there is a lot to cover on this subject and many different ways to say/write it. In truth, what you have read is only half of what I found on writing and editing when it comes to sentence structure and grammar. I could include the second half, but you may eventually want to stick forks in your eyes. So instead I will leave you with something other writers have said to me:

Yes, follow the rules of writing, but clarity supersedes all rules.

Good luck and I hope you don’t find editing as laborious as me!

7. Writer volunteer jobs

Opportunities:

Manager of writing competitions

Website manager

Information officer

Assistant to managers and officers

Writing Competition Judges

Event host – multiple required (Melbourne only)

Further details: www.worldwriterscollective.com/job-vacancies

These are all volunteer positions.

Your position includes free membership, a discount for any events you attend, free access to catering (if supplied) and an allowance for the manager positions (see position details).

Commit for 12 months or longer.

8. Melbourne Writers Social events

Recently we discussed how to win writing competitions and what judges look for. If you would like to learn more, check out our website: www.worldwriterscollective.com/writing-competitions

www.facebook.com/groups/570847673015529

www.facebook.com/groups/169777419779168

Mat Clarke – link to me and find others: www.goodreads.com/author/show/6898385.Mat_Clarke

Our main flagship event runs at the Wharf Hotel on the third Tuesday of the month. Please join us – all are welcome, even if you are only thinking of starting out in a creative field.

Click here to RSVP, check time and place of events: www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

We meet online every Monday from 6.30pm and show each other our work and chat about everything creative.

In South Bank each month for the next six or so months we are running a workshop on audio book creation. Please join us for an enjoyable information session. See Meetup for details.

Not currently running: Writers Workshop: If you want to work through a piece, then come along to the Eltham Library and let us help you create your best work.

Not currently running: Treehouse Writing: Join us in Olinda for a sanctuary in the hills where we write and relax.

www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

More links below

9. All Write! upcoming events

A place where you can write in Melbourne Central. All you do is turn up and write with others. You can chat to other writers as well if you like and grab a bite or a cuppa.

Most of all, enjoy yourself.

www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

More links below

10. We want to hear from you!

Yes, we really do.

We want feedback in any way shape or form. Even if it is to tell us you love us.

Stuff you may wish to reply about for our next Writers Sauce:

1) A few sentences on what writing means to you.

2) A paragraph or two about how you became a writer (or want to).

3) A great skill you picked up regarding editing, writing, publishing, etc.

4) The best place to write.

5) How chatting to others about writing made you a better writer.

11. Join us and we’ll promote you

You’re Not Alone

Come take the journey with us

Become a member for $20 per year. We would also like to stress that if you can not afford the $20, we would like you as a member anyway. You can pay WWC when you have the money available.

This is a collaborative group created so that in greater numbers we will be heard rather than forgotten

JOIN

Your $20 helps to pay for the website and member writers platforms

12. Essential Information

Sites Authors Should Know

This is an unofficial list I have created as a useful writer’s tool. I receive no royalties, or kickbacks from any sites below. Use as advice only.

-(Dean MacAllister)

Smashwords- Creates and publishes E-books in all formats for free.

Takes some getting used to and has to be done properly. For a small fee people on site will convert your file through the “meat-grinder” converter for you.

Kindlepreneur- Writer who joined most author sites to compare.

Links to the best author friendly tools. Marketing advice included. Free website with free manuals. (Highly recommended!)

Goodreads- Author/Reader site. Many discussion forums. Very popular. Good place to find fans, create an author profile and source reviews.

Librarything- Poor-man’s version of Goodreads, but much less commercial.

13. Important Links

Post news about your writing, book launch, events, or event just a link to your latest blog/post/tweet: www.facebook.com/groups/1629658520414716

Important information about writing in general, and the Melbourne Writers Group: www.facebook.com/MelbWriters

Discuss anything you like that’s creative: www.facebook.com/groups/169777419779168

For people who want to discuss writing on a forum that is for everyone around the world: www.facebook.com/groups/570847673015529

Information on writing, writing competitions, professional editing, getting published, and more. Become a member for discounts: www.worldwriterscollective.com

Near Melbourne? Come to our group and meet other writers and chat. Everyone is welcome: www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

Previous email-outs with great information.www.worldwriterscollective.com/writers-sauce

The Story Mint newsletter for even more information. Subscribe here: www.thestorymint.com

Unsubscribe?

Reply and type in the heading: CANCEL EMAIL-OUT

Writers Sauce – WWC

World Writers Collective

Categories: Contests, ePublishing, Networking, Skill Building, Volunteering, writing competition, Writing Groups

World Writers Collective 6 May 2023

6 May 2023 matclarke Leave a comment

I agree, only you hold yourself back in this silly writing game/hobby/job thing that we do.

Check out what Writers Digest is saying in our NEWS spot:

www.worldwriterscollective.com

#writers

Categories: Writing Groups Tags: authors, creative writing, writing

Writers Sauce – WWC – MWS 27-April-2023

27 April 2023 matclarke Leave a comment

Writers Sauce – WWC – MWS 27–April-2023

Welcome to Writers Sauce. We have two new topics for you to check out and it’s all about writing. See CONTENTS below.

Here’s what Christopher Kong said about World Writers Collective:

“Hi Mat – I came across your World Writers Collective site, including your post covering ‘editing tips’.

I’ve been working on a piece of creative non-fiction. Look forward to connecting and exchanging more ideas (and writing?) with each other!”

And Sergio about Melbourne Writers Social Group:

Hi Mat, I feel like I should grab you at least a couple of beers and a nice pub meal. It’s the least I can do to say thanks. I have no clue about being a writer and your help has been invaluable.

Kind regards

Sergio

Oliver, Kirk, Giles, Walter, Paul, Carl, Laura, Josh, Aparne, Susanne, Luke, Kale, Noel, and Prashama are our newest subscribers. We now have 381 subscribers. You’ve joined a great group of writers 🙂

If anyone would like to invite friends to join us, forward this email to anyone anywhere in the world.

World Writers Collective collaborates together with writers, editors and many other kinds of artists / creatives in all industries. We have actors, directors, illustrators, musicians and screen writers in the one place all eager for you to enjoy their work

Everyone who works on this website does so for free.

We would also like to stress that if you can not afford the $20, we would like you as a member anyway. You can pay WWC when you have the money available.

www.worldwriterscollective.com/wwc

If you want to add to this email with your own words of wisdom, let us know. Get in touch with us to let us know anything you think writers would like to learn about. We can also/otherwise add info to our NEWS section on the WWC website.

It’s all done for free and it’s off our own back. Please get involved if you have the time.

Thank you,

Mat Clarke

www.worldwriterscollective.com/mat-carke

Contents:

(Look for the *NEW* stamp below for content you haven’t read yet)

1. Book Review (more reviews on books wanted)

2. Writing competitions – suspended until a new manager volunteers

3. Promote your blog

4. Audio Book Info and workshop

5. The Story Mint: Stylefit

6. Writing, editing, predicates, grammar and sentence structure. *NEW*

7. Writer volunteer Jobs

8. Melbourne Writers Social Group events

9. All Write! upcoming events

10. We want to hear from you

11. Join us and we’ll promote you

12. Essential Information for Writers

13. Important links

–

1. Review a book title – It will be posted on the WWC website

For 2022 please review any book or script or poetry you like (yes, you can submit a review done on your story if you like).

Here’s a review of ‘The Man Behind the Mask’ by Rachel Martigan – A Regency Romance.

I struggled today and yesterday ��, having to work, when I just wanted to keep reading.

There was unexpected events, times where I was nervous about what the outcome might be, and happy bits.

Such a great read, you’ve done such a great job with both books.

So, when is the next book out?

I’m such a romance junkie, I can’t get enough.

Well done ��

All three reviews: https://www.amazon.com.au/gp/profile/amzn1.account.AERDMS7R4XWAMTDMWAS7A5C3PAGQ/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_gw_tr?ie=UTF8

The book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Man-Behind-Mask-Rachel-Martigan/dp/B09RJYT9N4/ref=cm_cr_srp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Here’s a review by Denise Kuchmar of Cecile Ravell’s creative memoir: ravellc.wixsite.com/ravell-the-writer

It’s a hard story to put down.”

Denise Kuchmar, Journalist.

Pre-order autographed copy: ravellc@yahoo.com.au

2. Competitions

Current and upcoming competitions have been suspended for now until we find a manager.

WANTED: competition manager

Short story competitions – World Writers Collective

A. The big one – WWC Golden Pen Award – Win $250 First Prize

All winners will be published in the anthology.

We may need to halt competitions after this latest big prize due to not having a competitions manager. If you would like to become the manager, please let Mat Clarke know.

Coming up (TBA):
The Quick Creative – limited words and limited time. Join us and win cash!

www.worldwriterscollective.com/writing-competitions

www.worldwriterscollective.com/editing-tips

www.worldwriterscollective.com

Become a World Writers Collective member, which helps support everyone in the group as indie writers and allows you to collect prizes if you win.

www.worldwriterscollective.com/join

If you are one of the top winners of the competition, you will be included in the next anthology. That’s just one of the great reasons to get involved!

We also want to promote you and your writing. All you have to do is say the word. When you are a member, it’s free!

3. Promote your blog

We want to promote your blog. Email us a link of one of your blogs and an explanation of why WWC people would enjoy reading it.

We want to promote your blog. Email us a link of one of your blogs and an explanation of why WWC people would enjoy reading it.

Here’s a few from Magz Morgan and the positive comment she received:

www.magzmorgan.com/blog

THANK you both, and the writers’ collective for all the moral support. When I get a message like this, I feel like crying. Maggie

Linda Douglas

Here’s another by Cecile Ravell

https://ravellc.wixsite.com/ravell-the-writer/blog

4. Audio Book info and workshop

By Mat Clarke for Les Green

Audiobook Production

Helpful dot points to help you transition from pages to narration and bring your story to life:

Why record an audio book?

– The manuscript is complete. After months or years of hard work the story is finished. An illustrator is prepping the artwork and you are looking to publish.

– Traditional print is still popular but you are leaning more towards digital. Why not, tons of people have a Kindle and everybody has a smart phone. However, most people don’t find the time to sit and read these days.

– People do spend hours in their cars and do look for distractions whilst exercising, cooking etc. So why is it important for you to start thinking about creating an audiobook for your story?

Audiobooks are now popular!

– The audiobook industry is evaluated at $3.5 billion dollars (US) worldwide and along with Podcasts continues to grow.

– Longform audio is big business while in comparison printed books and e-book sectors continue to decline.

– Basically, people are buying and consuming audio books rather than reading.

– The stories are still needed, people clearly just want quicker access to them.

– Given that independent and unknown authors have always had to struggle to make sales and to build a fanbase, having your stories in popular format makes perfect sense. Audiobooks make good financial sense, providing you understand how they work.

– Give an additional product to sell and market to sell in.

Make it easy for readers to sample your novel:

– Every writer knows just how difficult it is to get people to read your book. Even friends and family, despite making promises to read it, will struggle to find the time.

– When people are offered the opportunity to either read the opening chapters or to listen to the audiobook, most people with a preference of the audiobook will manage to find time to listen and give feedback. Engaging with the audiobook and wanting to hear more and even eager to find out what happens next.

– What’s obvious is that audiobook samples are one of the most effective ways of getting people past the initial hurdle.

Market Research:

– Traditionally the approach to recording an audiobook happens when the writing is complete with more and more emphasis being placed on social media and promotion. More people are turning to creating samples prior to completion. This allows you to effectively build potential reading groups eagerly awaiting the final manuscript. Getting people hooked on characters, especially ones who continue into a series.

– This provides a huge head start in the process of marketing and selling your book.

So, although it may seem like it’s another daunting project to tackle. Creating an audiobook will expand your readership, make your story more accessible and give you great feedback even if you haven’t released yet.

Over the next few months we’ll be breaking down how to go about giving your story the best possible voice. This will be done in person in the city of Melbourne. Notes will be added to Writers Sauce following each workshop.

*Melbourne Audio Book Production is currently offering a taster session for all WWC members which will include – 30 mins recording, 1 hour editing, 1 x finished audio clip and 1 x instagram sample. Contact us now to have a chat to see what we can do for you.

Contact: https://www.melbourneaudiobookproduction.com/contact.html 

Join us! Everyone is welcome even if you’re not close to recording just yet. Next event will be announced here: https://www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Writers

Les: Audio engineer, writer and musician – education and working experience – first vocal / dialogue for music and now just vocals.

Engineer for 15 years – commercial music – Artists / Producers in UK and Europe

Creative writer for 4 years .

Studying at SAE institute London

Logic Pro and Pro tools.

Began my creative writing journey 2016 whilst travelling – finding the time to complete in 2020 during pandemic / recording myself.

Started with Brisbane audiobooks – 2021

5. The Story Mint: Stylefit

Student Writing Competition

Open for participation enquiries and entry submissions

We hope we can achieve that once more with out 2022 NZ student writing competition! It’s now up and running, so we invite class groups or individual students to participate!

Our two biggest goals are:

– show students that writing (and learning writing skills) can be fun

– improve students’ writing skills by increasing confidence, self-direction and agency

6. Writing, editing, predicates, grammar and sentence structure

by Mat Clarke

This is the most basic writing skill when writing a good sentence:

Start with a subject, then verb, then object.

John played under the setting sun.

John is the subject.

Played is the verb.

The setting sun is the object (yes, setting is a verb too).

The subject is the “who” or “what” of the sentence, the predicate is the verb, and the object is any noun or concept that is part of the action of the subject.

The object can sometimes be a word that is left out and assumed to be “you” or other.

Here’s another way of saying the above:

SVC

An effective sentence structure is often SVC (subject, verb, complement, with ‘complement’ meaning the rest of the sentence). You can use a short phrase to introduce such sentences.

In 2015, the group (subject) met (verb) for the last time (compliment).