Bell-Bottom Gypsy: A Jessie Morgan Novel (Jessie Morgan Series Book 1) By Maggie Plummer

9/21/2019

Multi-genre, multi-volume author, Maggie Plummer introduces us to her wonderful story about living like a hippie in the 70s, “Bell-Bottom Gypsy: A Jessie Morgan Novel”:
A wild 1970s ride – an adventurous coming of age journey along America’s back roads.

At twenty, Jessie Morgan is fed up with just about everything. It’s September 1971 -- time to drop out, tune in, and turn on. She leaves college and Detroit in the rearview mirror, hitting the road in her 1965 yellow Volkswagen convertible. Wandering byways from Kentucky to Key West to Montana, Jessie is out to experience everything.

She didn't count on meeting a man like Twisty.

WARNING: BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY is New Adult Fiction recommended for mature readers due to 1970s-era sex, drugs, and cussing.

This story is a lot of fun. I really enjoyed it. I graduated from high school in 1971. Growing up on a small farm in a small town, I didn’t do anything wild. I moved to San Francisco shortly after. I met a lot of hippies and other counterculture types. This story rings with a great deal of truth on many levels. Many young people were abandoning the traditions of their families in various ways and were looking for something to anchor their life to.
The scene-setting is marvelous, I could see everything in my mind, the dialogue was quite good also. Action left nothing to be desired. The writing is excellent! This book gives a great snapshot of the journey, one young woman travels, in an interesting period of American history.
I award a score of 4.9 stars to “Bell-Bottom Gypsy”.

You can buy this book:
https://smile.amazon.com/bell-bottom-gypsy-by-maggie-plummer
https://www.goodreads.com/-bell-bottom-gypsy
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bell-Bottom-Gypsy-Jessie-Morgan-Novel-ebook

You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/authormaggiep
https://maggieplummerauthor.weebly.com
https://www.facebook.com/authormaggieplummer

Tags: coming of age, women’s adventure, women’s action, fishing, traveling, rock and roll, drugs, alcohol

Copyright © 2019 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction

99 Comments

Maggie Plummer link

9/21/2019 09:18:43 pm

Thanks so much, Mark. This looks great, and I am happy that you enjoyed the book. Write on! (as they say, LOL)

Mark

9/21/2019 09:46:18 pm

I did enjoy your book a great deal.
Please, tell us a little about yourself. Perhaps something a little bit beyond your bio.

Maggie Plummer link

9/21/2019 11:24:39 pm

OK. Let's see. I am a retired journalist, and I love staying home with my sweet black lab Peaches, whom I rescued from our local animal shelter here in Polson, Montana. She is my fifth dog and my first female dog. I honestly like animals better than I like most people. My worst peeve is animal suffering. I cannot stand that.

I have wanted to write novels for a long, long time. However, it seemed like I could not do it when I was working as a newspaper reporter. I don't know if that is due to not having enough energy leftover, or if it has to do with the difficulty of switching back and forth from fact-based journalism to imagination-based fiction. Either way, I am very glad to finally be writing novels. I sure wish I could write them more quickly, though!

Mark

9/21/2019 11:29:44 pm

Very good. Journalism must have taught you a lot about observing people and events. I would imagine writing concisely was important most of the time.
New questions.
What inspired you to write this book?
Why did you choose this genre, or do you feel the genre chose you?

Maggie Plummer link

9/21/2019 11:51:38 pm

Yes, I think some of our best novelists have had newspaper backgrounds. You're right: Concise writing is the most valuable skill I learned from being a journalist. (I certainly hope that was a concise sentence! ha!)

I was inspired to write BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY by my own life in 1971 and 1972. The novel is autobiographical fiction. But it is very much fiction. Within the framework of Jessie's travels, much of the story is embellishment and wishful thinking.

For years I thought of writing a memoir about my life during the 70s, but then decided my memory is not reliable enough for that. Also, I prefer writing fiction. I find writing fiction relatively liberating.

The other thing that inspired me to write this novel is that I am really tired of hearing myself tell these stories. I kept telling myself, "Shut up and write this stuff down!" It feels great to have done that, finally.

Mark

9/22/2019 12:02:20 am

Quite succinct. Thank you.
Thank you for answering my unasked question. The story felt so intimate and personal that it seemed like a memoir. You fictionalized it and created a great story.
New questions.
Who designed the cover of your book? Feel free to drop a link if appropriate.
What do the elements on the cover represent?

Jan link

9/26/2019 05:06:42 pm

Ha! I find myself telling myself the same thing quite often! Maybe one day I will do just that.

Maggie Plummer link

9/29/2019 08:25:02 pm

Hi there, Jan,

I hope you will do that. Just do it. But at least we have good stories to yakk about, right?

Mark

9/29/2019 09:15:16 pm

Nice to see you Jan. We will be having our own conversation next June. I am looking forward to it.

Maggie Plummer link

9/22/2019 12:47:00 pm

I designed the novel's cover myself, with designs and images provided by KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing). I've been able to do that for all three of my novels. I enjoy working on the covers. Sometimes, when I feel stuck in my writing, I go to the KDP site and fiddle around with the cover. It helps me visualize the novel coming together.

The elements on this book's cover: the golden, tawny tones symbolize sunshine; the photo represents the freedom of the open road, heading west into the setting sun; the black background is what I decided on to make the cover bold and easily read. Like I said, I work with the images provided by KDP (used to be CreateSpace), which limits my choices but means that the cover image will be high quality, crisp, and clear. All three of my novel covers have abstract images meant to only hint at what the books are about. I love simplicity in a book cover.

Maggie Plummer link

9/22/2019 12:51:45 pm

One more thing: I chose the book cover fonts to reflect the novel's relatively modern, informal style.

Mark

9/22/2019 12:54:14 pm

I like the simplicity of the cover. That seems like a good way to deal with writer's block.
New questions.
Was it hard to come up with the title? What was the process?

Were the character names difficult to develop? How did you choose them?

Maggie Plummer link

9/22/2019 01:25:39 pm

Coming up with this title was quite a process. For years, imagining a book based on my early 70s travels, I wanted it entitled "Tales of a Volkswagen Gypsy." As I began writing this novel, various friends told me that "tales" made it sound like short stories. I thought, OK, "Volkswagen Gypsy." Then I found out that the VW Corporation is extremely uptight about use of their name and/or brand. I tried again and again to contact them, to work something out, but never heard back from them. (plus everything was in German! LOL) It was back to the proverbial drawing board for a title. It wasn't easy letting go of "VW" in the title. For some reason, I had become very attached to that. I came up with various 70s-era things to add to the word "gypsy," and "bell-bottom" won. I'm happy with it.

As for character names, it wasn't too difficult. I've had Jessie's name in my head for years. She is the main character in the first novel I ever wrote, which has never been published. I decided to develop her for this series. I like the name Jessie Morgan. Many of the characters in BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY have names similar to their real names, or names of people I've encountered elsewhere in my life. The name "Twisty" is meant to reflect his personality, for sure. It seems like a nickname his friends would give him, and one that would stick.

Mark

9/22/2019 02:29:24 pm

Many companies are very jealous of their brand. They have a legion of lawyers to protect their IP. I think you made a wise choice to change the title of your book.
The names work quite well. It is funny sometimes, how nicknames are developed and get attached to a person.
New questions.
Have you entered any writing contests?
Have you won awards of any kind for your writing?

Maggie Plummer link

9/22/2019 03:17:37 pm

My first novel, Spirited Away – A Novel of the Stolen Irish, was a 2013 finalist in The Kindle Book Review's Best Indie Book Awards as well as a quarter-finalist in the 2014 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Awards.

Since then, I haven't entered any writing contests. I'm not sure why, except that everything takes time and many contests are expensive to enter. I keep busy writing novels and promoting existing ones on social media. If anyone has an idea for a writing contest this novel could win, please be sure to let me know.

Mark

9/22/2019 04:25:34 pm

That is really nice to be a finalist for these awards. That must have been a big boost of confidence. There are a lot of shady contests. Here is a blog by one of my favorite bloggers about contests bad and good. Beware Bogus Writing Contests! Look for These 8 Red Flags. https://annerallen.com/2019/05/beware-bogus-writing-contests/ via @annerallen You will have to copy and paste the link.
New questions.
Did you go through the query process or did you go straight to self-publishing, and why?
How do you think your book compares to a book published by a major publisher?

Maggie Plummer link

9/22/2019 08:59:47 pm

Thanks for the blog link. That looks helpful. I'll check it out.

With my first novel, the one I never did publish, I went through an extensive query process that was discouraging. That's putting it mildly. I felt like I was trying to communicate with a Black Hole of Indifference. It was awful.

When I was writing SPIRITED AWAY, a writer friend taught me about Amazon's self-publishing platforms. She swore that self-publishing on Amazon is the way to go, in terms of royalties as well as control over one's book. I was so sick of the query process I'd experienced, I went straight to self-publishing with SPIRITED AWAY. It was exciting!

I have also taken my other two novels straight to self-publishing on Amazon. I appreciate the way self-publishing empowers authors, enabling us to publish books that would otherwise be gathering dust in a drawer while we struggle through the query process -- often getting nothing in return.

I think BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY is every bit as clean and well written as a book published by a major publisher... in fact, I think it's cleaner and better written than many books being published by major publishers. I feel the same way about my two historical novels, SPIRITED AWAY and DARING PASSAGE.

Mark

9/22/2019 10:38:51 pm

I have heard similar stories from many authors. Amazon turned the publishing world upside down and shook it out! Many publishers have gone out of business. Those that remain struggle.
Congratulations on your publishing success. This book was published barely six months ago, my review was #27. You must have a large number of fans.
New questions.
There are many unethical practices in publishing, which one is the most unbearable in your mind?
Do you have a favorite book by another author?
Did you have a favorite book as a child?

Maggie Plummer link

9/23/2019 04:31:35 am

Thanks, Mark. I have been fortunate when it comes to getting Amazon book reviews, largely thanks to the early success of my first novel, SPIRITED AWAY - A Novel of the Stolen Irish. That one has 228 reviews. It came out in 2012 and made a slight splash online because readers had never heard of "Irish slavery" and were eager to check it out. Most of the time, however, an author doesn't have the advantage of a unique slice of forgotten history. It's important to note that the "lots of reviews" territory comes with horrifying one-star reviews that are often libelous. Authors beware: thick skin required. But I digress...

To me, the most unbearable unethical practice in publishing is charging an author an arm and a leg to get his/her book published. So-called "self-publishing" companies sometimes charge an author thousands of dollars to publish his or her book. Many of these companies hide terrible clauses in their contracts that rip authors off in a big way. Ugh. These companies take advantage of a person who has written a book and is excited to see it in print. I'm very lucky to have had a savvy writer friend who knew about true self-publishing and shared her knowledge with me.

My favorite book by another author is TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. Oh, I love that novel. I can re-read it again and again. Speaking of which, it's time for me to read it again! What is it about southern writers? Their storytelling talents tend to be off the charts. Perhaps it's the south's storytelling tradition?

As a child, I loved the Bobbsey Twins books. I also loved OLD MOTHER WEST WIND by Thornton Burgess. Am I dating myself or what?

Mark

9/23/2019 10:57:14 am

That was fortunate for you to write about an unknown topic.
I know of a website devoted to exposing these unscrupulous publishers, It can be found here https://accrispin.blogspot.com/
Copy and paste time.
Those clauses can steal your intellectual property leading to severely damaging economic consequences.
New questions.
Does writing have a spiritual or healing component for you, does it energize you or make you feel tired?
Why is it important for writers to tap into the emotions of the characters?

Jan link

9/26/2019 05:12:19 pm

Thanks for that link. I'll be sure to share it because I got caught up with one of those "self-publishing" companies and lost some serious $$$'s.

Maggie Plummer link

9/23/2019 11:34:07 am

Thanks for that link, too, Mark. Much appreciated.

For me, writing has a healing component. Any time I can channel my energy into something creative -- especially a novel! -- it's very good for me. I think it's critical for people to channel their creative energy. It can go haywire so easily.

I am usually writing about my own emotional challenges. By writing about those, it helps make sense of things... at least sometimes.

I get tired from writing, unfortunately. To me it's the hardest work in the world. Sometimes I feel like my head has been squeezed inside out, when I'm done. The more I care about a fiction scene and want to do it justice, the harder it is to write. I suspect that my inner editor is the reason for all of this. :)

I wish I could be energized by writing. Maybe that's how some writers churn books out so quickly. Not me, though, dang it anyway.

It's crucial for a writer to tap into characters' emotions because that enables readers to identify with the characters and the story. I tend to prefer women writers because I feel that they're generally better at writing about emotions, relationships, and connections. I can't stand novels in which the author writes only about things, action, and plot. I'll throw a book like that across the room every time.

Mark

9/23/2019 12:17:35 pm

You are welcome for the link. There are a number of blogs on my website in Guest blogs and Highly Regarded Blogs that you might find interesting.
Some writers report feeling something akin to a runner's high others feel drawn and stretched.
One of my recent reviews, "The Last Marines" is a book you might enjoy. It's a good mix of action, plot and emotions.
New questions.
Are you an under-writer or an over-writer?
When the first draft is done, do you need to add more to it to flesh it out or do you have to cut material because there is too much there?

Maggie Plummer link

9/23/2019 05:05:37 pm

I think I'm both, but tending toward under-writing. When the first draft is finished, there are patches that need to be fleshed out, and other patches or scenes that must be cut or tightened up.

Mark

9/23/2019 05:52:38 pm

Very good. It sounds like you are writing the first draft just to have it on paper. That is the reason for a first draft, it's supposed to be a POS. I do not believe there has ever been a perfect first draft. Considering that I find spelling errors in almost every book I read, there are few perfect final drafts also.
New questions.
What do you do to flesh out the characters for your stories?
Have you ever used yourself or other acquaintances as a character for a starting point in a story?
Would they recognize you or themselves in the story?

Maggie Plummer link

9/23/2019 06:26:53 pm

I still cannot believe I spelled pixie that way. GRRRR LOL

To flesh out characters, I create a special "background" document in which I brainstorm about the various characters and create profiles for each one. I would like to get better at character development...

Yes, I often use myself or people I know to develop characters. It's a great way to get quirky details in there. In BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY, I did that a lot, and yes, they do recognize me and themselves in the story. Here in the small town of Polson, Montana, folks are getting a kick out of the fact that almost half of BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY takes place near Polson in 1972. We're having fun with that.

Mark

9/23/2019 06:39:39 pm

Lightning is a word that trips up so many authors, they write "lightening", so frequently.
That is wonderful that everyone was cool with being in a book.
Grizz and I are in an unpublished book that is being rewritten, it remains to be seen if our roles survive the process.
New questions.
Which is more fun to write, the protagonist or the antagonist, and why?
What is one thing you hate about your protagonist and one thing you love about the antagonist?

Maggie Plummer link

9/23/2019 08:44:02 pm

Well, I certainly hope you and Grizz get to be in that book!

I think writing the antagonist is more fun, because he or she is capable of just about anything. Diving into one's dark side, writing the antagonist, can be a revelation.

What do I hate about Jessie Morgan? Her insecurities, especially in group settings. Her inability to let things roll off her back. Her habit of internalizing everything, particularly negative things about herself.

What do I love about Twisty? His guitar playing and singing, especially when he plays Dylan songs.

Mark

9/23/2019 09:09:59 pm

I have heard that about antagonists from many authors.
Dylan was so popular back then. His music was very influential.
New questions.
What is your writing routine when you sit down to write?
Do you write in a straight line or do you write whatever the muse provides for you at a given moment?
Did your writing process change much from your early books to your current book or did it stay the same?

Maggie Plummer link

9/24/2019 09:45:10 am

I try to write my novels in a straight line, plowing through difficult scenes as they occur. That way the whole thing gets finished and I don't have dangling, incomplete chunks in the story. Sometimes it changes, though. If I'm really stuck, I'll jump forward in the story and write a scene I'm enthused about. That seems to get me un-stuck.

For some reason, when writing my current work-in-progress (Book Two of the Jessie Morgan Series), I began by writing all the chapters that were from points of view other than the protagonist's. Maybe that was the muse at work. Other than that, I would say that my writing routine has stayed the same since my early books.

Mark

9/24/2019 09:53:47 am

You discovered what I think is a good idea for beating writer's block. There is a guest blog elsewhere on my website about non-linear writing.
I am glad to hear you are working on Jessie's story. I moved to San Francisco in 1971, to live with my bio-dad. Coming from a small farm in a very small town, it was a shock to my system.
New questions.
Now that your book is published, is there anything about it you would like to change?
How do you think your book relates to the world we live in today?

Maggie Plummer link

9/24/2019 10:20:54 am

Where in San Francisco did you live? In 1972 I moved there, and lived in the lower Haight neighborhood because the rents were relatively inexpensive there. I'm glad I'm not trying to live in that city now!

The only thing I would consider changing about BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY is the way I handled the sex scenes. The feedback I hear most frequently from friends and acquaintances who read the book is that they didn't like the sex scenes... that they have "too much information." Come to think of it, I have only heard that from older women, LOL! But seriously, it makes me think my writing was clumsy in the sex scenes, or too graphic, or something. (???)

I think BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY relates to the world we live in today by showing what can happen when a person gets out there on back roads, away from television and (these days) smart phones and social media, to experience real life among real people. Traveling like that is probably more dangerous now, but I'm convinced that a person could still have heart-warming, eye-opening, mind-blowing experiences with real Americans on real back roads. I would bet good money on it.

Driving across the continent alone was always dangerous for a woman, or for anyone, really. But I love to see people resist the fear mongering media, think for themselves, and connect with each other, face to face. As Jessie Morgan knows, courage means doing things even when you're afraid.

Mark

9/24/2019 10:37:40 am

I lived on the south side of Mt. Davidson, until I moved out on my own. Then I lived all over town, the Avenues, Mission District, Glen Park to name a few. I won't return to San Francisico until the supervisors straighten things out. Chaos and lawlessness reigns now.
You will never be able to please everyone with a sex scene or writing in general.
The world is full of real people who love to connect. You also have to listen to your instincts, to stay safe.
New questions.
Do you have a classic author you admire?
What popular modern authors have influenced you?

Maggie Plummer link

9/24/2019 11:07:29 am

I admire Harper Lee for her incredible storytelling in my favorite novel of all time, TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. I really must read that novel again soon.

I have been influenced by such modern authors as Toni Morrison, Barbara Kingsolver, Anne Tyler, Anna Quindlen, and Annie Proulx.

Mark

9/24/2019 11:49:30 am

Very good. I should read TKAM also. If nothing else to see what the hullabaloo is about. I read nothing but science fiction and fantasy for my pleasure, for a long time. I missed many of the classics.
Just a few years ago I read Mary Shelley's book and Abraham Stoker's book. I loved the story of Frankenstein's monster, I didn't enjoy Dracula that much. It seemed like the count was the only one with a functioning brain.
New questions.
Have you ever had the experience of the story swerving in a different direction than planned, as if a character was driving it?
What software do you use to write and publish your books, and why do you use those?

Maggie Plummer link

9/24/2019 12:06:36 pm

I can't stand science fiction and fantasy. I used to like fantasy, to some extent. In the 70s, I loved Tolkien's LORD OF THE RINGS books. But my tastes have changed. When I went to see the "Lord of the Rings" movie, I fell asleep. LOL

When I was writing SPIRITED AWAY, the Birdie character began steering the story in an unexpected way. It was interesting, as if I were channeling her Native American character or something. I loved it, actually, and I wish that would happen to me more often.

I write on Microsoft Word and publish my novels on KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing). I'm used to Word and don't feel the need to use anything else. I think that, for a writer, it's important to use software that's comfortable and familiar -- so that one can concentrate on the writing, not the technology! Since I began self-publishing in 2012, I have used Amazon's software. First it was CreateSpace; now it's KDP.

Mark

9/24/2019 12:46:55 pm

The LOTR was my introduction to fantasy, and it knocked me out! I read the series three times before graduating from high school.
Tastes do change. I am now a fan of good writing in almost any genre.
That has to be an interesting event, somewhat akin to an out-of-body experience, when a character starts to drive the story.
New questions.
How do you keep track of all the characters and events in your books?
Are you a plotter, a pantster, or a hybrid?

Maggie Plummer link

9/24/2019 01:20:33 pm

I keep track of characters and events with a scene list, which is a rough outline. But as I write, I don't always stick to the list. I do try to update my list.

I'm very lucky to have a close friend who is also a writer. She and I give each other chapters or batches of chapters as we write, for critiquing. She is not shy about telling me if I'm losing track of characters/events.

In general, I would say I'm a plotter. I wouldn't want to tackle writing a novel without my scene list.

Mark

9/24/2019 03:37:33 pm

You do sound like a plotter.
A critique partner is very valuable, an honest critique is worth more than gold.
New questions.
What kind of information do you have on your scene list?
I know there are many ways to build the outline. Do you do it all on the computer or do you get analog at some point with post-its or note cards?

Maggie Plummer link

9/25/2019 02:25:46 am

My scene list is sparse, just brief summaries of each scene. I try to include anything important to moving the story forward.

It's always in a Word document on the computer. No analog.

Mark

9/25/2019 10:59:55 am

A lot of authors use Word. It seems to have the widest base of usage for writing among authors.
New questions.
Do you have a defined space for writing at home, or are you a coffee-shop writer?
Do you listen to music or have the TV on when writing, or do you need quiet?

Maggie Plummer link

9/25/2019 06:10:03 pm

I have a home office area, but I write on my laptop in my living room recliner. True confessions! It's not the best for my neck, and I probably should change my ways, but so far I'm still doing it. I love being able to put my feet up if I feel like it.

When I'm writing, I need quiet. I'm glad I live alone, because I need to be alone to write, too.

Mark

9/25/2019 06:28:57 pm

There are so many ways to create the environment most conducive for your muse. If that works for you, bully!
I can have lots of noise when I am reading, I can read almost anywhere. But when it comes to proofreading, I need quiet. The only things I listen to are the videos our daughter has put on YouTube. She is a Weight Watcher ambassador and social media influencer.
New questions.
Action, dialogue, or narration; which is easiest to write?
Of the five senses which is the easiest to write and which is the hardest?
Have you ever participated in theater in some way?

Maggie Plummer link

9/25/2019 07:15:08 pm

I enjoy writing dialogue. I'd say that's the easiest for me to write.

Smell is the easiest sense for me to write. Maybe that's because it is easiest for me to imagine. The hardest sense for me to write is sight. Maybe that's because what we see tends to be more complex. Maybe it's also because sight is the sense that is most often described?

No, I've never participated in theater. I love the movies. I adore a good, character-driven movie, especially on a dreary day.

Mark

9/25/2019 07:29:40 pm

You had a lot of dialogue in your book, I enjoyed it a great deal.
Movies are a great escape.
New questions.
What kind of marketing are you doing or planning on doing for your book?
What kind of marketing has worked the best and the least for you?
Speaking of marketing, why did you pick me to help promote your book?

Maggie Plummer link

9/25/2019 09:05:10 pm

Ah, marketing. (instant headache! LOL)

The main thing I do, almost every day, is spread the word on Twitter. I try to grow the number of my followers, and hope that many of them retweet my tweets. Now and then I offer sales or free promotion days. When one of my books is free, I promote it on free book promotion sites that are very helpful. I recommend that.

I think the most effective book marketing tool is having plenty of Amazon book reviews. I've been fortunate in that area. Thanks, readers!

When I published SPIRITED AWAY in 2012, I promoted it on tons of book promotion sites. That was effective. However, most of those sites now charge for listing an author's book. So... I don't know, now. I try not to pay for anything, to be truthful. (No, I'm not Scottish! I'm Irish! LOL)

Twitter seems to work well, although honestly it's difficult to measure its effectiveness. I decided to focus on one social media site, Twitter, because I didn't want to go crazy trying to market my books.

OK, true confessions: I am guilty of ignoring the "sales reports" because I don't want to be obsessed, crazed, bummed out, etc. Who needs that? I probably don't do enough marketing, but at least I don't spend what royalties I get on advertising.

As for the least effective marketing, I'm thinking the Amazon Giveaways, of Kindle editions, might win the prize. Again, it is hard for me to measure that. For all I know, the increased visibility due to the giveaway helped me sell some books. I find it too hard to track these things. Is it just me? Anyway, recently I hosted an Amazon Giveaway for SPIRITED AWAY, the Kindle edition. Four people won, out of 400 or so entrants, and not one of them claimed his/her book!

I don't think I'm good at answering these marketing questions because I don't track my sales and stats, etc. I suppose I should make an effort to get better at that. Like I said, it's so easy to get crazy over it.

I picked you to help promote BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY because last spring, when the book was about to be released, an author buddy, @LaloLafleur (I think I spelled that correctly) on Twitter, told me about you. Her advice was to give your book promotion a try. So, voila!

Mark

9/25/2019 09:23:03 pm

@LaloLafleur and I go back quite a ways. We both like Chihuahuas and books, so we have a lot in common.
It is easy to get lost in the weeds of reports and statistics, but honestly, I can't think of another way to keep track of what is going on, beyond how many books have been sold. Some people are better at that than others.
That is so strange, those 4 not claiming their free book. I love free books. I love to read.
Thanks for letting me help promote your book.
New questions.
How do you know when a book is finished?
Did anything in Bell-Bottom Gypsy come as a surprise while you were writing?

Maggie Plummer link

9/26/2019 12:31:06 am

Do you know of ways for me to learn how to better track what's going on with my books, and which types of marketing are effective? I wonder if there's a course... I need to improve in this area... but I don't know how to do that. (pant, pant. I would rather write!)

@LaloLaFleur and I go back years, to the Amazon Author Forums. We used to hang out on a couple of "Meet Our Authors" discussion threads. She is a great lady! Did you ever hang out on those discussion threads, Mark? Grizz would have loved it. hehehe... He would have been hunting for the worst gossip!

I know a book is finished when it comes full circle. That's how it works some of the time, anyway. In BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY I went for a full-circle ending, as you may have noticed. The two Spirited Away Saga novels didn't have that, but both end on a high note, I feel. At first I tried to keep writing SPIRITED AWAY, beyond its current ending. I could tell the novel was finished because as I tried to continue writing the story, the whole thing just dragged and got bogged down. Once again, I relied on feedback from writer friends. They agreed that SPIRITED AWAY should end right where it does... I'm trying not to do spoilers here.

As I wrote BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY, sometimes I was surprisingly emotional. Going back to some of those times was triggering, if you know what I mean. A good example is the part on the fishing boat, when that captain is so horrible. That stuff happened, and it was awful. I'm lucky I didn't get hurt. I kept my promise to God, that I would never again get on a boat with a bunch of men. Yikes!

Some of my embellishments in BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY were a surprise. For example, I did drive north through the Arkansas Ozarks in April, but I didn't go to Eureka Springs and soak and stay in a neat old cottage and get spooked by ghosts. That episode was a fun surprise.

Mark

9/26/2019 09:39:12 am

We have never been on those threads. Your questions about tracking your books would likely get a large response. You might also want to go through the interview I had with Rick Hall when I promoted his YA book, "Gnosis" He is a big numbers guy. I really enjoyed that chat.
You were very fortunate that you weren't injured or worse on the fishing boat.
New questions.
How long does the research process take before you start to write a book or do you do the research as you write the book?
How much time passes from when you get the idea to write your book, to actually starting the book and finishing the first draft?
How many drafts did you go through to have a ready-to-publish manuscript?

Maggie Plummer link

9/26/2019 01:37:33 pm

It depends on the book.

My two Spirited Away Saga books, set in the 1650s, required tons of research. I did at least a year of solid research before beginning to write SPIRITED AWAY. During the writing of those books, I continued to do tons of research. It's not easy to find authentic information about the 1600s. Most of the material available about slavery and colonial times is from the 1700s. There's a huge difference between the 1600s and 1700s. As I wrote those two historical novels, I constantly checked on words' etymology, to make sure I wasn't using inappropriately modern words.

My research for both of the Spirited Away Saga books drove the plots. I would come across tidbits of history and work them into the plot. It was wonderful.

For BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY, my answer is completely different. I didn't have to do much research before writing, but I did research as I went. The challenge was coming up with a workable plot, in order to convert my 1970s travel tales into a novel.

My writing timeline varies with each book, too. With SPIRITED AWAY, I had the idea in 2008 and self-published it in 2012. I can't recall when the first draft was finished, sorry. SPIRITED AWAY went through five drafts before it was ready to be published. DARING PASSAGE took two years to research and write and revise. It went through three drafts before being ready to be published.

BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY took about three and a half years to write, revise, and edit. It went through three drafts. There were times when I was awfully slow writing it. I would get emotional while writing various scenes, and avoid writing for days.

Mark

9/26/2019 02:08:36 pm

Every book and genre have unique needs. It makes a lot of sense what you went through to get the stories published. Historical novels do require a tremendous amount of research.
New questions.
Going back in time, did you do any kind of creative writing, even back in grade school?
How early was it that you realized how powerful words can be?

Maggie Plummer link

9/26/2019 02:40:04 pm

I don't recall doing creative writing as a kid, except perhaps a few poems. I began keeping a journal as a teenager, pouring my considerable angst onto the pages.

I have always loved to read. I think I realized how powerful words can be when I escaped, as a kid, into books. My mom would "punish" me by sending me to my room. When she told me I could come out, I'd stay in my room, engrossed in a book. It probably drove her nuts, how I turned the "punishment" into a contented, wonderful time. We had a great library near our house in Detroit, and I got most of my books from there.

Mark

9/26/2019 03:14:38 pm

The love to read is strong within me, my children and my grandchildren. One of my granddaughters is writing her first fan-fiction in the Hogwarts world.
Growing up on a farm near a small town, I spent a lot of time outdoors. Reading was nearly as important to me also. It took very little for me to pick up a book. I had learned to read before the first grade. I was so proud when I got a library card from the public library.
New questions.
A lot of new authors struggle with finding beta readers. Because, after the first draft is done, fresh eyes and feedback become very important.
Do you have alpha-readers and/or beta-readers to help you smooth out a lot of wrinkles before publishing?
If you don’t, why?

Maggie Plummer link

9/26/2019 04:53:00 pm

We're both lucky to love reading so much. Can you imagine not loving reading? Yikes.

I have always had beta-readers and critiquers, thanks to creative writing classes and writers' groups. I would be lost without my writer friends who beta-read and critique. I read and critique their stuff, and they reciprocate. It's the best exchange. Sometimes their input inspires major revisions in my novels.

It would be terribly uncomfortable, publishing a book that had not been viewed by other eyes. That said, I do believe it's tricky, critiquing and/or beta-reading. It's important for the beta-reader to understand what type of critique to give, and to keep it constructive.

For BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY, I had two of my sisters beta-read the manuscript. I wanted to make sure I hadn't written anything that would be horribly offensive within my family.

Mark

9/26/2019 05:11:37 pm

Most writers report depending heavily on their beta readers, some don't have critique partners also, to their regret. Fresh eyes are so important! I cannot emphasize that enough to new writers. I know one writer that wouldn't show his book to anyone for fear of someone stealing the idea. There are no new ideas, just unique ways of telling the story, that varies with each writer.
That was a good idea to bring your sisters in.
New questions.
At what stage in your writing process do you bring in the readers?
Do you give them an e-version like a PDF or a hard copy you printed off?

Maggie Plummer link

9/26/2019 06:04:08 pm

I bring readers in at various stages. My good friend, who is a writer, is an alpha reader. As we write our books, we bring each other chapters... hard copies. We mark 'em up like crazy. Our chapter exchange also helps us get our books written, providing important deadline pressure here and there. Sometimes I'll have another reader look at a hard copy of a chapter I feel needs "extra eyes" on it.

Other than that, I bring in beta readers and ARC readers when the book is almost ready to publish. For them, I provide PDF copies.

Mark

9/26/2019 07:45:18 pm

You really have a good system. All those readers are so helpful, it's no surprise to me that I found only two spelling errors.
New questions.
Will you seek out new beta readers or work with the same ones as before?
Do you reward the beta readers in any particular way?

Maggie Plummer link

9/26/2019 08:59:26 pm

I'm happy with my beta readers, so I will probably work with the same ones. Many of them are writer friends, so I reciprocate the beta reading. That works beautifully. I make sure to give each beta reader a complimentary signed hard copy, and they're always in the acknowledgements.

Mark

9/26/2019 09:18:11 pm

That sounds like a nice way to thank your readers. Returning the favor is a wonderful idea, of course. You have done well building up this group of writer friends. It's wonderful to help and be helped in turn.
New questions.
What is the most important thing you learned from publishing your latest book?
What are three things, that you wish you knew before you wrote your first book?
You live in Montana. In town or do you have some land?

Maggie Plummer link

9/26/2019 09:44:54 pm

Let's see. The most important thing I learned from publishing BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY is that putting autobiographical fiction out there is fun.

Three things I wish I knew before I wrote my first book:
-- There is NO WAY my writing will please everyone, so just do your best;
-- It's crucial to have a thick skin when reading one's Amazon reviews; and
-- Don't run too many free book promotion days in a row.

I live in the small town of Polson, Montana, on the south end of Flathead Lake. I have a little house right in town, and I like it.

Mark

9/26/2019 10:43:00 pm

Right on the lake. How nice. I do enjoy spending time on waterfronts a lot, especially the ocean. Lakes are quite nice also. Larger lakes have their own weather. A point you brought out well in your book.
Those three lessons are important ones every author has to come to grips with. There will never be a book that everyone likes! Every book has an audience and group of people who are the non-audience. Each author/marketer has to find the audience to put their book in front of. Otherwise, it will vanish into obscurity.
I tell authors to celebrate a negative review. It means that it's not just your mom and cousins that are writing reviews on your book. The negative review validates the good reviews.
New questions.
What is the most valuable piece of advice you have ever received from another writer?
What has been the biggest surprise in your writing journey?

Maggie Plummer link

9/27/2019 11:57:19 am

Those are tough questions, Mark.

Let's see. The most valuable piece of advice I've ever received from another writer: I hate to resort to a writers' cliche, but I think "show don't tell" says it all. Those three words are true wisdom for a fiction writer. No matter how long I've been at this craft, it continues to be a challenge to "show don't tell."

The biggest surprise in my writing journey? Two surprises are tied. The first was stumbling in 2008 upon the forgotten history of "Irish slavery" from the 1650s, and finding myself intensely fired up to write a novel about that subject. The second was the timing of Amazon's self-publishing technology. The Amazon self-publishing platforms were available right when I needed them. Also, as I mentioned earlier, a wonderful writer friend taught me about those platforms.

Here's to happy surprises!

Mark

9/27/2019 12:13:17 pm

Glad I could make you think.
The "show don't tell" advice is applicable to all writers. We are born storytellers for the most part, the telling part comes very naturally.
The convergence of finding that untold story and publishing being unlocked is amazing, without a doubt.
New questions.
You have published a number of books. You are writing more. Are you writing anything strictly for your own pleasure, not necessarily planning to publish it?
What are common traps for beginning writers?

Maggie Plummer link

9/27/2019 06:48:11 pm

At this point, no, I'm not writing anything strictly for my own pleasure. I'm focused on publishing more books. However, the Jessie Morgan Series is, in a way, for my own pleasure. I've been meaning to get my stories written down for years and years. I'm happy to finally be doing it, even though it's not easy. (It's really, really not easy.)

Common traps for beginning writers: (RANT ALERT!)

-- racing to self-publish and promote. It's important to write the very best book one can and take the time to get it polished and edited and proofread and critiqued into something to be proud of. Focus on the substance, the content. Take writing classes and go to a writers' group. If there isn't a writers' group in your area, start one by placing an announcement in the local newspaper and listing your phone number as a contact for those who might be interested. There are no shortcuts: if you need to, pay a professional editor to go over your book with a fine-toothed comb. Channel your energy into producing a well-written, creative, original piece of work. Too many authors are self-publishing sloppy work, giving self-published authors a bad name. I have a HUGE problem with that. There is NO reason why we self-published authors can't be every bit as wonderful as other authors. Don't publish a sub-standard book. Don't be part of the problem; be part of the solution.

-- jumping on the bandwagon. This is a pet peeve: trendiness. I notice on Twitter, all the new romance novels about Highlanders and time travel. People, please! Not to mention the ever-present dragons, wizards, vampires, and wolves. And let's not forget the kinky billionaires. Oh my! Be original or go home.

-- procrastination. In order to be a writer, you have to write, preferably every day. It's easy to get distracted or feel guilty. Even if the house is messy, get that writing done. Make writing a priority and stick to a schedule that works for you.

Mark

9/27/2019 07:17:40 pm

Don't sugar coat it, tell me how you really feel. Just kidding.
Publishing too soon is one of my biggest peeves also. There is so much poorly written, never edited, sloppy pieces of work out there. Those crappily crafted books give every indie author a bad name.
I believe you when you say it's not easy to write the Jessie Morgan series. Autobiographical fiction would be a different beast to write on multiple levels.
New questions.
Do you think a strong ego is an asset or liability for a writer and why?
Can you describe the demographic of your ideal reader?
Who is the person most likely to buy your book that you are seeking to find?

Maggie Plummer link

9/28/2019 12:40:58 am

I think it takes a healthy ego to write at all, so a strong ego is an asset for a writer. But if a writer's ego gets too big, it's a liability. Some of my favorite writers produced their best work early in their careers, before they experienced huge success. Why is that? I'm thinking it's probably the ego factor.

I'm not sure who my "ideal reader" is. I think I write for people like me: older women who have gone through the 60s and 70s and are well educated (not necessarily a formal education, though), intelligent, sassy, fun booklovers.

The potential reader most likely to buy my book is thoughtful, curious, open-minded, and intelligent. I like to think both men and women are likely to buy my book, but maybe women are the most likely.

Mark

9/28/2019 10:33:24 am

I think you might be right. The readers who become your fans will very likely have an adventurous spirit and enjoy traveling.
New questions.
Do you have anything you consider to be your writing lucky charm?
What is the biggest obstacle you face in writing?

Maggie Plummer link

9/28/2019 12:15:25 pm

No writing lucky charm. Maybe I'll put finding one on my list of things to do. Ha!

The biggest obstacle I face in writing is my own low energy level. It's tough for me to write long hours. I wish I could!

Mark

9/28/2019 01:12:20 pm

That makes sense, sometimes we don't have a choice to take a break. A lot of energy can be expended in creative pursuits. I hope you're eating well and exercising.
New questions.
Do you struggle with writer's block, if so, how do you overcome it?
Do you see an advantage of writing under a pseudonym, why or why not?

Maggie Plummer link

9/28/2019 02:29:53 pm

Sometimes I struggle with writer's block. I try to overcome it by tackling a different part of the book or a scene I'm enthused about writing.

I can see an advantage to writing under a pseudonym. It's very liberating, knowing as you write that the reader will have no idea who you are. On the other hand, in a small town like the one where I live, a pseudonym means that you can't have local book signings and other high profile activities. If an author is going to write under a pseudonym, it's important that he/she think it through.

Mark

9/28/2019 03:34:11 pm

There are many reasons to use a pseudonym, probably almost as many as authors who use a pen name. Some authors use a different name for each genre they write in. I saw one author bring all her books and pen names together under one website. A separate section for the fan loyal to only one genre. I bet she was hoping for crossover also.
New questions.
Are there any issues particular to writing a memoir that might not apply to other genres?
Are there any writing styles or genres that you disliked at first, but soon came to like?

Maggie Plummer link

9/28/2019 04:22:01 pm

I have never written a memoir, so I am not familiar with that genre. I thought about writing this novel as a memoir, but decided that my memory is not reliable enough.

BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY is best described as semi-autobiographical fiction. There are plenty of issues particular to that genre: you have to think about whether or not the story is interesting to others, and craft the fiction accordingly; you cannot be afraid to embellish and fictionalize, since that is what creates a dramatic novel; it can be difficult not to overreact to criticism, taking things too personally; an author must think about how people the characters are based on will react to the story, and be sure he/she is OK with that reaction (talk to them about what you're writing, and be sure to fictionalize their character thoroughly); and it can be tempting to include details that are not important for the story, but to which you as a writer are attached.

It's not an easy genre, but it's tremendously satisfying. Finally various stories from my crazy life are recorded, even if in fiction form. I'm already 68; there's no time to waste.

I can't think of styles or genres that I disliked at first, but came to like. I used to like more styles and genres. I'm fine with having more selective taste now. Life is too short!

Mark

9/28/2019 05:11:51 pm

Thank you for correcting me. Not memoir, semi-autobiographical fiction. Now, I am curious. Why is it semi-autobiographical fiction, instead of autobiographical fiction? I am not seeing a difference on the surface.
Accepting criticism is hard for many authors. After laboring for a lengthy period of time, making sure every word has earned its place on the page, it's all too easy to be blind to glaring errors. Our brains will lie to us, causing us to see what we want to see. The errors become invisible. That's one big reason why it's necessary to have beta readers, critique partners, editors and proofreaders; or as many of those as a writer can afford.
New questions.
Do you think reading, watching movies or listening to music help you be a better writer?
At this time, do you read books for entertainment or just research homework?

Maggie Plummer link

9/28/2019 05:49:22 pm

I think it's semi-autobiographical fiction because autobiographical fiction stays close to what really happened. The events are things that happened in the author's life. The way I understand it, semi-autobiographical fiction is inspired by and informed by real events.

In BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY, the basic framework of Jessie's travels really happened, but within that framework many aspects of the story are pure fiction, embellishment, and wishful thinking. For example, Twisty. In real life, the boyfriend was not like him. He did play the guitar and was into black and white photography, but he was dull. A writer can't produce a novel with a dull, boring boyfriend, right? Anyhow, by saying "semi-autobiographical," I'm trying to let the reader know that much of the story is pure fiction, inspired by real experiences.

I think reading and watching character-driven movies help me be a better writer. Listening to good music probably helps me be a better human being, LOL.

I love reading books for entertainment. I've been reading Rick Bass and Toni Morrison. I think Rick Bass is my favorite Montana author.

Mark

9/28/2019 06:01:33 pm

Thanks for deciphering that for me. I learn something new from so many authors. It's one of the reasons I enjoy the interview so much.
You are the second author I have interviewed from Montana. Kyle Morrow wrote an exciting contemporary romance called "Two Crow Omen: A Bryn Sheridan Montana Romance"
New questions.
What type of book is your favorite guilty pleasure to read for fun?
Have you ever read a book that changed the way you look at writing?

Maggie Plummer link

9/28/2019 07:22:44 pm

My favorite guilty pleasure reading is trashy romance, erotic romance, even kinky romance. They're a "no-brainer" break from everything. But I wouldn't want to read that stuff all the time.

When I first read Norman Maclean's A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT, I was awestruck at his prose poetry. That novella has the best first line and the best last line I have ever read. When I finished it, I thought, "OK, this is what's possible. This is the goal."

Recently I attended the "In the Footsteps of Norman Maclean" literary festival in Missoula MT. It was great. I love seeing people celebrate Norman Maclean.

Mark

9/28/2019 11:22:07 pm

That must be a pretty good book. I haven't read it, nor have I seen the movie. I find most book adaptations to be disappointing. The only adaptation I was remotely pleased with was LOTR and The Hobbit.
New questions.
Do you think that a writer needs to read books, why or why not?
What hurdle did you face in writing this book and how did you overcome it?

Maggie Plummer link

9/29/2019 02:05:06 pm

I cannot imagine being a writer who does NOT read books. For me, It's all about language, and love of language. I suppose it's possible to be a writer who doesn't read, but... why? The more I write, the more differently I read books. I'm more critical, but also I learn a ton from other writers' work.

The biggest hurdle I faced in writing BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY was how revealing the book is about me, in my small town. There is NO anonymity here. I worried about backlash on many levels: family, friends, acquaintances, the community. As it turns out, that has not happened. Not yet, at least. Even the more conservative types just say, "Everyone was young and crazy at some point." It's interesting.

Mark

9/29/2019 02:39:41 pm

I agree with you about writing and reading. It's essential to read and learn.
Your trepidation about this book and your small town is very real. A lot of people in your town are wise.
New questions.
Would you agree or disagree with the statement: suffering is a requirement to be a good writer, and why?

What were your intentions or your goals when you wrote this book? Do you feel you were successful in getting that message across to the reader?

Maggie Plummer link

9/29/2019 07:00:17 pm

I hope you're right, about the people in my town being wise. Sometimes a writer, or anyone, must cast her fate to the wind!

I think suffering does help a person be a good writer. I suppose it's possible to be a good writer without suffering, but only if you're writing fairy tales and lighthearted romances. It would be tough to do a good job of writing fiction in which the characters suffer, if you yourself had never suffered. There is no substitute for experience. Suffering rounds out a person's character.

Everything is about balance. (ooh ooh, profundity! LOL)

In writing BELL-BOTTOM GYPSY, my intention was to show a strong but troubled young woman moving into real world adulthood in the early 1970s, shedding layers of innocence in her own unconventional way. I wanted readers to see that Jess is courageous, even though she is often afraid -- that she learns how to be afraid and do things anyway.

I think I got that message across to the reader. What do you think?

Mark

9/29/2019 07:13:39 pm

That was very profound. Balance is very important, I have told my kids a very similar thing, about how important moderation is to live a full life.
I think you did a bang-up job of getting the idea across to the reader. Jessie went through so many different situations. I think it would be hard for someone to not see that message.
New questions.
Do you ever brainstorm with non-writers and if so, is it effective?
What was the best money you ever spent as a writer to enhance your career?

Maggie Plummer link

9/29/2019 07:43:34 pm

Sometimes I brainstorm with non-writers, but only in very specific ways. It's effective because I kept it specific. I was writing a scene recently, and Jessie was going through something I'd never experienced. A friend of mine went through the same thing in 1970... which is pretty close to 1973, when I have Jess going through it. (all this trouble to avoid spoilers, hehe!) In situatons like that, I think brainstorming with non-writers is fine. I wouldn't to brainstorm with a non-writer about, say, point of view or verb tense or "show don't tell."

The best money I ever spent as a writer was finishing college in 1983, earning a degree in journalism at the University of Oregon. Journalism training enhanced my writing career in countless ways, among them: concise writing; knowledge of layout and design; photography skills to accompany writing; attention to detail; and the writing skills that come with the long, long hours of writing one does as a newspaper reporter and/or magazine freelancer.

Other than that, maybe buying a powerful laptop computer that helps me write quickly.

Maggie Plummer link

9/29/2019 07:51:03 pm

Oh, no! I found a TYPO in my answer up there! First paragraph, should be "situation" not "situaton," LOL. Just had to be sure that YOU know I saw it FIRST, Mr. Proofreader Mark!

Also, in the first line I should have written "keep" instead of "kept."

OH, no!! Another typo! First paragraph, second to last line: should be "I wouldn't WANT to" not "I wouldn't to" ... sorry about that.

See? Mark is wearing me out, everybody. It's all his fault.

Mark

9/29/2019 08:23:52 pm

I am not wearing you out. I am helping you to see better. Your skill as a proofreader is getting an upgrade.
I suspected that journalism would help someone doing other kinds of writing. Thanks for verifying that.
Are you still a duck fan, after all these years?
New questions.
What are your favorite reference books for grammar and writing?
Have you ever created a throw-away character that developed into a major player?

Maggie Plummer link

9/30/2019 06:08:19 pm

Ah, the Fighting Ducks. I'll always love them, especially the track teams. When I lived in Eugene, I could not believe the turnouts for the track meets. It was fantastic.

My favorite reference book for grammar and writing is the one and only Chicago Manual of Style. That book is so great. It's my bible!

In DARING PASSAGE, I created a throw-away character in the sea voyage part of the book. He developed more than I thought he would, presenting important challenges to my main characters. After that, sure enough, he had to die.

Mark

9/30/2019 06:16:49 pm

You are hardcore! That character served his purpose and was out the door, feet first.
I use CMOS also. It has everything.
New questions.
Do you ever put a story aside and come back to it at a later date?
When you have stepped away from a story, how long before you revisit it?

Maggie Plummer link

9/30/2019 06:31:43 pm

Sometimes it helps to put a story aside and come back to it much later, with fresh eyes. I've been known to wait years before revisiting a story. Sometimes that's what it takes to figure it out.

Mark

9/30/2019 06:41:24 pm

I am not a writer, but I do understand the need for a situation to percolate under the surface. I like to let my subconscious sort through a problem until the solution is clear.
New questions.
Why do most authors write in 3rd person POV instead of first and second POV?
Do you think you were born to write or did you have to learn the craft?

Maggie Plummer link

9/30/2019 07:30:05 pm

I think third person POV is more fun to write, and allows an author more freedom. All three of my novels are third person, multiple viewpoint. In third person, the narrative feels more immediate. I like to imagine the narrator as a movie camera, zooming in and out. In fact, when I make my scene list I visualize scenes as movie scenes. It's fun! In the first person POV, the narrator and viewpoint character are the same; in third person POV, they're separate. That allows a writer to do a lot more in a scene.

I came by writing naturally, but I also had to learn the craft. Everyone has to learn the craft. Those born to write just learn it more quickly and take it further.

My grandmother was a talented poet and journalist here in western Montana, in the 1920s and 30s. I would give almost anything to have known her. We probably would have either gotten along very well, or we wouldn't have been able to stand each other. One extreme or the other.

I give the nuns at my Catholic school (the same school for 12 years!) a lot of credit for my writing abilities. They were strict about teaching us English, and had very high standards. I can still diagram a sentence, thanks to my eighth grade teacher, Sister Bernard Marie. LOL! As a kid, I gravitated toward reading, writing, and languages. I hated science. Surprisingly, I did not hate math, but I think that's because we had wonderful math teachers in our Catholic school. Anyway, I'm convinced I would not be the writer I am today, or the editor/proofreader, if it weren't for the solid English foundation the nuns insisted on building.

Mark

9/30/2019 07:42:30 pm

I had sentence diagramming in the eighth grade also. I can't remember any of that to save my life.
My efforts at creative writing were quite poor also. All I really wanted to do was read.
I certainly agree, everyone has to learn the craft of writing, even a natural born storyteller.
New questions.
What did you buy with your first royalty check?
How did you celebrate when you published a book?

Maggie Plummer link

9/30/2019 08:26:01 pm

I kissed my first royalty check a few times, stared at it, deposited it, and treated myself to some kind of dark chocolate concoction.

The first time I published a book was in 2008... my only non-fiction book: PASSING IT ON: Voices from the Flathead Indian Reservation. To tell you the truth, I can't remember how I celebrated. That book was published by a tribal college press here on the reservation. It's a collection of feature articles I had written about tribal elders for the tribal newspaper. I had that published to get my foot in the publishing door, and as a way to preserve those elder profiles for posterity. A book is much more permanent than a newspaper, it seems. I probably celebrated by taking a deep breath, relieved to be finished with that project. Maybe I had a beer. Ha!

Mark

9/30/2019 08:39:24 pm

Dark chocolate sounds good to me! I especially like the dark chocolate with chilis made by Moonstruck Chocolates, here in Oregon. The gift that keeps on giving. Beer sounds good also.
Quite an interesting project. Are you a member of the tribe?
I have just recently had the thought that my dad is getting old, in his 80s. I don't know much at all about his early life.
New questions.
What was the earliest experience that made you realize that you could influence and change lives with the power of writing?
Do you believe that a good book will sell itself?
Do you think good marketing can overcome the limitations of a mediocre book?

Maggie Plummer link

9/30/2019 08:52:13 pm

I'm not a tribal member, but I did work at the tribal newspaper for quite a few years. That's how the elder profile features came about.

Yes, sit your dad down and interview him, Mark! Tape record it if you can. His stories are gold.

I know you're probably tired of me praising TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, but when I first read that novel, it struck me right between the eyes that well-written fiction can change the world. That was the first time I realized how powerful writers are.

No, I don't think a good book will sell itself. Due to self-publishing, we are in an absolute tsunami of books, millions and millions of books. It is harder and harder to get visibility for one's books, no matter how good they are. Of course it does help if it's a good book.

I've seen many a mediocre book make it to the big time. Drives me bananas! I guess it's all about who you know and being at the right place at the right time. Plus, if an author's books make money, publishers are happy to market the heck out of them, no matter the quality. I'm sorry, but it's true.

Mark

9/30/2019 09:14:20 pm

Maybe I should record him. Good idea.
I have heard from more than one author how good TKAM is. One of these days I need to read it.
Recently, I read that a million new books are published on Amazon each year. That creates serious issues for getting noticed, without a doubt.
Last questions.
How do you balance the demands on your time as a writer with personal relationships?
In your experience, which marketing avenues have been the most rewarding or profitable?
What is the biggest myth about writing that would help aspiring authors?

Maggie Plummer link

9/30/2019 10:22:04 pm

I hang out with friends late in the day, if possible. That way I can write in the morning, my most productive time. Most people are happy to work around my writing schedule, as a way of being supportive.

I think the best marketing avenues have been the free book promotion websites, where they list an author's Kindle free book promotions. Those sites work well. The trick is to plan ahead and list your promotion on as many sites as possible.

Myth: Successful authors get to focus on their writing. Not true. Most writers work a day job or somehow supplement their writing income. Aspiring authors should not expect to make a comfortable living solely from their writing. It can happen, but the odds are against it.

Mark

9/30/2019 10:35:31 pm

I didn't know about those websites. They sound pretty handy. There are so many different ways to promote a book. If you live in an area with a thriving tourist industry, you may be able to place your books in B&Bs, restaurants, gift shops, museums, and other places with the angle of being a local author. You can also try donating books to local libraries, there is a blog on my Highly Regarded Blogs page about how to get into libraries around the country. You can do signings at book stores or libraries also, sometimes. Local TV and radio stations are frequently happy to feature a local author, and don't forget the stations in local colleges, even high schools sometimes, as well as local cable access.
This has been a real pleasure to chat with you, Maggie. We have much in common.
I definitely enjoyed this book. Thank you for writing it. I look forward to the next adventure in Jessie's life in San Francisco. Until nexttime, be well and keep writing.

Maggie Plummer link

10/1/2019 11:58:30 am

Thanks, Mark, especially for the great review and the amazing interview. It's been a real pleasure chatting with you, too.

I'll check back here during the next few days, just in case there are questions from anyone, or comments. If there are, I promise to reply.

I hope you'll keep in touch. Take care of yourself and keep proofreading/promoting. From Montana to Oregon: a great big bear hug!

Donald link

2/19/2025 11:39:21 pm

Your review of Bell-Bottom Gypsy is wonderfully detailed and engaging! You provide a compelling analysis of the book’s themes, character depth, and storytelling style, making it clear why this novel is a must-read. Your thoughtful insights make this review both informative and enjoyable. Fantastic job!

Mark

2/20/2025 07:58:00 am

Thank you, Donald. I hope you enjoyed the book as much as I did.

Bell-Bottom Gypsy: A Jessie Morgan Novel (Jessie Morgan Series Book 1) By Maggie Plummer

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