Kassius Kanex By MK Schultz

7/27/2019

Debut author, M. K. Schultz, introduces us to his first science fiction novel, Kassius Kanex:
Kassius Kanex loves his home and family but hates his job and wants to quit. A chance meeting with strange men looking for directions inspires a change in Kass. He is led down a new path that not only rescues him from his perceived career imprisonment, but also leads to the fulfillment of his destiny.

When his family becomes endangered by his new life, Kass’s full identity is revealed. His truth previously existed dormant inside of him, but Kass is now awakened. Following a visit to three doors of mystery, his true essence is discovered and a choice is made.

Danger and suspense build as more truths come to light, and Kass wonders if things will turn out better or worse. He still hides one secret, though, and its admission will change everything.

I enjoyed this story of how a man’s life changes in mysterious ways, due to his acceptance of external demands. Watching him muddle through his life, wanting nothing more than to be able to provide for his family that he loves so much, the tension builds ever so slowly.
The author (no relation to me) is quite good at allowing the plot to create the pressure of waiting for the other shoe to drop. The characters vary in depth, but they all bring something to the table. The scene-setting is good and contributes to the story as it should. Dialogue is very ordinary and that is part of the genius of the writing, it lulls you into a false sense of security before springing a surprise. I am not going to divulge anymore, because I refuse to reveal spoilers.
I enjoyed it a lot. This first novel from Mr. Schultz is impressive in a quiet way. I award a score of 4.5 stars.

You can buy this book:
https://smile.amazon.com/Kassius-Kanex-Novel-MK-Schultz-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-kassius-kanex
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/kassius-kanex-mk-schultz

You can follow the author:
https://twitter.com/Makemali
https://sites.google.com/view/mk-schultz/home

I have reviewed the second book in the series: www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/the-fishing-trip-kassius-kanex-book-2-by-m-k-schultz
I have reviewed the third book in the series: www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/equilibrium

Tags: adventure, science fiction, paranormal, family life, office work, travel, suspense
Copyright © 2019 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction

100 Comments

MK Schultz link

7/28/2019 12:28:53 pm

Thanks for the review and for lending your keen eye for spotting invisible errors. I am correcting them immediately and since my book is print on demand, the fix will be swift to implement and I am excited for my book to receive this polish.

Mark

7/28/2019 12:42:10 pm

You are most welcome, Mark. I really enjoyed your book and am honored that you found my catches useful.
Please, tell us a little about yourself. Perhaps something a little bit beyond your bio.

MK Schultz link

7/28/2019 12:53:40 pm

I am a new author who started late at the age of 44. I had the idea in my head for writing a book ever since I was in my early 30's but I never had an idea that I felt strong enough about until Kassius Kanex came knocking on the door of my mind. He came swift and through it, I just began writing his story and it seemed to just flow freely out of me as though by inspiration. During the writing of Kassius Kanex, I knew I had finally found my passion. As such, the journey has only just begun. The dream is true now, and I am currently well underway with book number two. As is stated in my bio on my website, I live in the woods with my family and I work for a small municipality.

The RAGE

7/28/2019 12:54:37 pm

Whoa! Mark Schultz talking to Mark Schultz!! It's like Kassius talking to Orion! Plot twist! Yeaaaah!
(Wicked story by the way. Could easily be turned into a movie.)

Mark

7/28/2019 01:08:06 pm

Thanks Rage, I have to keep looking in the mirror to be sure who I am talking to. Thanks for dropping by.

Mark

7/28/2019 01:14:36 pm

I lived on farms when I was growing up, played in the woods a lot. Good times.
There are quite a few authors who started later in life than you. I think you are right on time. I am glad to hear you are writing more.
New questions.
Are you working on a sequel/prequel to your first book or something different?
What inspired you to write this book?
Why did you choose this genre, or do you feel the genre chose you?

MK Schultz link

7/28/2019 01:35:47 pm

My second book is a fresh new story about a group of five friends who embark on a fishing trip, however it will officially become the prequel to Kassius Kanex as it eventually connects to it in a powerful way.

My inspiration for writing Kassius Kanex began as an escape for myself. I was in a bit of a rut and felt unsatisfied at the time with my job. Much like Kassius, a change needed to happen and so I began to write that change through Kassius and together, we found our passion. It really is quite astounding when I think about it.

The genre chose me. The story did not have a plotted plan, but it instead grew and took shape as I wrote it. The words poured out of me with ease and I became proud of how it turned out in the end. I do think it would make a great movie too, and I sort of had that thought in the back of my head as I wrote it.

Mark

7/28/2019 03:52:12 pm

I think most of us have had jobs like that. Where you feel like your soul is being drained away a little bit each day. Mostly it's management or coworkers, sometimes both.
You are the first person who wrote his way out of the situation. Assuming you have found a better job, in the meantime.
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?

Mark

7/28/2019 05:18:54 pm

We have a small problem with the link to MK's website when you click on the arrow next to his name. My web host has a glitch and adds an HTTP to the front of his link. The easiest solution is to scroll up the page and hit the link just above all the comments.
Thanks.

MK Schultz link

7/28/2019 05:09:27 pm

It is true what you are saying. I really did write my way out of the situation and I do have a much better job in the meantime.

For the cover of my book, I was caught off guard a bit during the process. The publisher wanted cover ideas but when I submitted my sketches and ideas, I learned that they did not offer full graphic design services. Instead, they directed me to choose a pre-stock royalty free image to base the design of my cover on. I was very overwhelmed as I began searching through the millions of stock photos that they made available to me. Then I came across the image which you see on the cover of Kassius Kanex. It depicts a climactic scene in the book where the main character is faced with three doors through which he is assigned to a training of sorts which will ultimately result in him finding his true identity, purpose and destiny. The image is not perfect, but it did conjure a certain emotion and feeling that complimented some of the feelings and mystery that I wanted the scenes to convey. I should also point out that only doors two and three appear on the front cover, with the first door appearing on the back of the book. I was quite pleased with this and had to direct the publisher to do this. I was also happy with the colors of the doors as they do align with what is behind each of them. Something I liked that the publisher did, was to substitute the I in KASSIUS with the image of Kassius himself. That, along with the dramatic darkness of the photo pleased me as I feel it conveyed the mystery that is contained within.

Mark

7/28/2019 05:15:51 pm

The cover story is very cool. If you want to, send me a picture showing front and back, I will add it to my website. That cover might be hard to beat.
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?

The RAGE

7/28/2019 05:43:39 pm

Ah man. I cannot wait to read the next book. MK Schultz has figured out how to tap into the feelings of the working class. I read this book twice now and like it better every time. I think MK Schultz has got a good thing going. His book has a unique way of throwing you for a spin as soon as you think you have figured out what’s going on. I could easily see a trilogy come out of this. My only hope is to get in a lineup to get his autograph in my book someday.

Mark

7/28/2019 06:11:54 pm

You are an enthusiastic fan! I love that. When a book strikes a chord within, it becomes an important part of your life.
Are you a writer? How do you express your creative side?

MK Schultz link

7/28/2019 05:57:32 pm

For the title, I knew I wanted it to be the name of the man who the story was about. His name was the first two words I wrote in the book and I remember spending about 30 minutes to choose them. It had to be dramatic. It had to be cool. This man was a seemingly simple man who was not what he seemed to be. He was very complex and needed a sophisticated name. The last name, Kanex came first and the story of how it was chosen is quite interesting. As you know, this is my first book and I didn't even have a computer when I wrote most of it. I bought a wireless keyboard and mouse and used my phone along with Google Docs. The decision to write the book came upon me one early morning and I set up the keyboard, mouse and phone which was propped up on a little stand. I stared at the blank screen knowing that the first two words of my book would be the name of my character and the book itself. I glanced down at the word that appeared on my keyboard. It was Kanex. That's it, I decided. That's the last name of my character. It was right in front of me as though it was given to me. Now for the first name. My father's name is Kenneth and he is an artist with gifts to draw and paint that are mind blowing. I always wished I had inherited his talent, his artistic gifts. And so I decided in honor of him, the first name would also begin with a K to match the second name and to honor him and the gift of art that I did receive after all albeit in a different form and also still kept hidden from me at that time. A simple Google search of cool names that began with K and voila, Kassius was born then and there. With the first two words of my book now complete, KASSIUS KANEX could now be written.

The other characters do have methodical reasons and stories behind most of them. For Rock, his name had to be strong and supportive and so it was an obvious choice for me. The Engineer's names are based on some complex ideas and symbolism that purhaps will be the topic of some further discussion should my book gain further interest. Actually, all of the names were easy for me to choose and I could write a synopsis explaining each and every one of them.

Mark

7/28/2019 06:06:58 pm

That is a fascinating story. That story and the others would be good for your website. Readers love that kind of background information. It would be a good way to build your mailing list. Many big publishers won't talk to an indie author unless they have several books published and a mailing list of several thousand. Another client of mine has written her fourth book, which I proofed for her and she has begun the query process.
New questions.
Have you entered any writing contests?
Have you won awards of any kind for your writing?

MK Schultz link

7/28/2019 06:05:42 pm

Thank you so much for your kind words RAGE. I do hope to continue writing and a trilogy would be cool for sure. I am glad that you find Kassius Kanex both entertaining and thought provoking.

MK Schultz link

7/28/2019 06:12:31 pm

Thanks for the great feedback Mark.

A couple of boring answers now. No I have not entered any writing contests or won any awards.

Mark

7/29/2019 09:46:41 am

Entering contests are a good way to polish your writing skills and garnering a few awards bring more recognition. But you must be on guard for bogus contests. One of my favorite bloggers has a great article about the very thing. Here is a link that you can copy and paste to read it: https://annerallen.com/2019/05/beware-bogus-writing-contests/ via @annerallen
New questions.
Why did you have a book traditionally published instead of self-publishing?
How did you pick your publisher or did they pick you?

Mark

7/29/2019 09:47:47 am

The issue with non-working links beside the author's name is fixed from here on out.

MK Schultz link

7/29/2019 12:03:00 pm

Thanks for the article link. I will check it out.

My book was self published by way of help from a company called iUniverse. They offer services they have coined as 'Supported Self Publishing'. They guided my through the whole process from manuscript to publication. I had a very good experience with them as they lead me through the process. In the end, the book is still self published because all control of content, editing and cover was still my decision to make. They took care of copyright and ISBN as well as getting my book live and available in both soft cover and ebook on many websites including Amazon. They use print on demand technology which keeps the cost down. For about a year, I queried traditional publishers and literary agents, but none of them it seems were interested in a debut author. That is when I made the decision to contact iUniverse and from that point on, my book was published within three months.

Mark

7/29/2019 02:16:15 pm

Very nice, your story sounds similar to many other authors. Your publisher sounds like a hybrid and their assistance was very useful to you. Getting your book out in three months is quite fast compared to traditional publishers. It's not uncommon for them to take a year or more to get a book to market.
New questions.
Was it hard to choose your publisher?
Will you stick with this publisher for your next book?

MK Schultz link

7/29/2019 02:47:48 pm

With self publishing, the author fronts the cash. That is what I was trying to avoid by seeking out traditional publishing and/or literary agents. I still would like to achieve this as I feel my book would reach a wider audience this way, however I was ultimately convinced to go the iUniverse route when I read their pitch in a book that they published called "Get Published". I was still a bit unsure after reading it but I felt like I needed to take a chance and so far, I have not regretted this decision. They have been fantastic. I really think it is the way to go for first time authors. I will definitely consider acquiring their services for my second book if I do not get picked up by a traditional publisher. Life is too short and I am not getting any younger. I believe in my writing and I also believe that other people will enjoy it too. I can't wait to hear from people that I do not know; someone who just genuinely likes my book and the world that it contains. This is why I list my personal email address on my website. I would love to hear from people who get it. People who understand that Kassius Kanex is more than just a character in a book. People who realize that Kassius Kanex can be that kick in the ass that we sometimes need in order to figure out what it is that we really what to do in this short life that has been given to us.

Mark

7/29/2019 06:21:01 pm

Very good. It sounds like a positive experience for you. Some authors have paid out thousands of dollars and got nothing to show for it.
New questions.
How do you think your book compares to a book published by a major publisher?
There are many unethical practices in publishing, which one is the most unbearable in your mind?

MK Schultz link

7/29/2019 07:05:19 pm

I feel very fortunate. I felt very unsure and a bit uneasy at times wondering if I made the right decision to take the plunge and self publish, but in the end my goal was achieved exactly how I had hoped and then some.

I love my book and I believe in what it says, what it stands for and how true it is. I wonder sometimes if a traditional publisher had gotten its hands on it if it would have been as genuine. I think that has got to be the most unethical unbearable act of publishing; the changing, twisting and shaping of the original pure idea into one that has a totally different target / motive to align it with what the trend of the day will allow. So to answer your first question, in all honesty I believe my book kicks ass and has more to offer than many traditionally published books.

Mark

7/29/2019 07:47:51 pm

I love your passion and I suspect your thoughts about how a publisher might want to change your book are pretty realistic. An author can get a lot of security with traditional publishing, but they can lose a great deal of control over the book also, including the rights to foreign publication, audio book (which is exploding around the world), movies and much more.
New questions.
Did you have a favorite book as a child?
Do you have a favorite book by another author?

MK Schultz link

7/30/2019 12:03:47 pm

My inspiration comes from a life time of consuming stories mostly in the form of movies. I am very inspired by writer/director Sam Raimi and how he and two friends back in high school, got it into their heads that they could make a real actual movie and they did it. I wanted to achieve something similar, but with a book instead of a movie (although maybe one day my book can also be made into a movie. Here's to dreaming). The movie Sam Raimi made was a horror flick called The Evil Dead and I pay homage to it by mentioning it in a line in my book.

In so far as books are concerned, I enjoy classics like Golding's Lord of the Flies, Hemingway's The Old Man and the Sea and Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby for the literary beauty and descriptive language they possess. I also enjoy reading works by G.K. Chesterton, C.S. Lewis and Fyodor Dostoyevsky. I like Frederick Forsyth and I also quite enjoy and strongly identify with Stephen King.

Mark

7/30/2019 01:46:22 pm

You have some heavy hitters there. I recall reading Golding's book in high school and found it very chilling! I was subject to a lot of bullying in my school years. C.S. Lewis is a favorite author of mine, I have read many of his books. Do you know about his sci-fi series, "Out of the Silent Planet"? I have read that more than once along with the Narnia books. Tolkien is another favorite.
New questions.
Do you ever read a book more than once?
Does writing have a spiritual or healing component for you, does it energize you or make you feel tired?

MK Schultz link

7/30/2019 03:14:28 pm

I have not read "Out of the Silent Planet" but I look into this. Interesting title.

I don't usually read a book more than once. Lately I have been enjoying audio books and there are a few of those I have repeated. Stephen King's "On Writing" for one and also Elizabeth Gilbert's, "Big Magic".

Writing "Kassius Kanex" brought me to the realization that writing is my passion. Writing energizes me and soothes my soul. I am very happy that I found my art; my way of expressing myself and this provides me with a great satisfaction and fulfillment that I find very healing and rewarding. I feel like I have been searching my whole life for a way to express myself and now that I have my first book under my belt, the journey has but only just begun. I find that I get a huge rush from creating characters and a story and I like the novel format as it gives me a lot of content to build suspense and interest slowly and then I enjoy tying things together.

Mark

7/30/2019 03:38:39 pm

You are a blessed person to find that which excites you and motivates you!
"Out of the Silent Planet" is volume one of a sci-fi trilogy. The protagonist is modeled after Lewis' good friend, John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, JRR Tolkien. Tolkien was a professor of languages, and the protagonist is also. I hope you enjoy the books.
New questions.
Why is it important for writers to tap into the emotions of the characters?
Now that your book is published, is there anything about it you would like to change?

MK Schultz link

7/30/2019 04:06:16 pm

I look forward to reading the trilogy. Sounds like a masterpiece.

The characters have to be interesting and they have to make the reader was to invest in them. Vulnerabilities, humor and quirkiness are a few traits that I enjoy. I really feel drama and high emotion interests a lot of people. You need a good back bone of a story but without interesting characters, it won't be as good.

Besides the handful of spelling errors that your keen eye picked up on, I wouldn't change a thing in my book. I like how the main character has memory flashbacks, and dreams and how scenes of him preparing meals for his family in a very meticulous way all tie together to reveal a quite unsuspecting outcome. I also like how the scenes are simple and yet also complex, which is an ongoing theme in the book. What I think surprises people the most is the unsuspecting turn of events that takes the reader to places I don't thing they could have ever predicted they would be going to.

Mark

7/30/2019 04:31:33 pm

Your book is full of surprises, one after the other, it gets bigger and better with each new reveal. Your book was so ordinary at the beginning, it was different and refreshing.
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?
Are you talking about sentences, paragraphs or a chapter that didn't survive the final cut?Do you save the parts that didn't make it into the final version?

MK Schultz link

7/30/2019 06:31:48 pm

I am an under-writer. When I completed it, it was just over 60,000 words. During the edits and re-writes, I added an additional 5,000 words to flesh it out. There are 36 short chapters. I tend to like to get to the point fairly quickly although I do also enjoy drawing certain things out as much as I can in order to create some suspense and delayed gratification in some cases.

I didn't really cut anything out. Instead I tried to elaborate on certain scenes that needed more meat. I also had to fix a lot of inconsistencies and some plot holes along the way. My book was edited 10 times. Nine times by me and one time by a different set of eyes. I have all 10 iterations saved as separate files.

Mark

7/30/2019 07:16:36 pm

So many writers are just the opposite, they have to cut prose. I imagine it's easier to add rather than subtract.
New questions.
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?

MK Schultz link

7/30/2019 07:58:42 pm

I think the method to my madness is to get it all down first never going back to fix anything until it is completed. I am using the same approach on my second book and it seems to be working well.

For sure there is a lot of myself and others that I know or have come into contact with over the course of my life in my writing. I believe this along with other influences help to shape the characters that a writer tries to bring to life. I think it helps to make the characters real and as genuine as possible and the fun part is that when you mix and match, the possibilities are limitless. People close to me have told me that they do recognize some traits and behaviors of the characters in my book. I imagine this must be a common approach among writers but I don't know this for sure.

The nice part of being in your 40's is that you have a larger cross section of experiences to draw from and use to bring characters to life.

Mark

7/30/2019 08:25:54 pm

You can't edit a blank page! Get it all down first! That is the exact advice I give to new writers. So many of them try to edit as they go along, so they can have a perfect first draft. There is no such thing. A first draft exists for one reason only, to be a POS that can be edited into a jewel. You are definitely on the right track.
New questions.
What is one thing you hate about your protagonist and one thing you love about the antagonist?
Which is more fun to write, the protagonist or the antagonist, and why?

MK Schultz link

7/31/2019 03:59:16 pm

One thing I hate about my protagonist is his lack of self confidence although that does take a turn for the better.

As for the antagonist? Well first of all, I would say there are at least five in various forms although the ultimate one comes near the end. I would say that there is nothing to love about any of them however the character Rock is just plain awesome through and through. I think he could be antagonist in part of the book, however he is far more of a secondary protagonist. I think the same could be said of the engineers.

The protagonist is by far the most fun to write. I am very partial to stories with a protagonist who is weak and then becomes strong and there is definitely a lot of that in Kassius Kanex.

Mark

7/31/2019 04:41:21 pm

You captured Kassius’ journey quite well. The journey is something that we all go through in our life. Seeing a successful journey gives us all hope.
Rock’s journey was interesting also. He followed orders, executed the plan and improvised when needed to accomplish the plan. He had no problem accepting Kassius as a new leader.
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 gives you at a given moment?

MK Schultz link

7/31/2019 09:06:13 pm

My writing routine is mostly on weekends and holidays as my day job takes up quite a bit of my time. When I get into a focus, I stick to a very strict plan which I have outlined on a spreadsheet. It usually consists of 2,500 words per day when I can so the progress is definitely much slower than what I would like, however there are sometimes increased periods during vacation etc., where I go on an accelerated plan and I find that my writing thrives even more when this takes place.

I do write in a straight line. I am a very linear thinker and strategist, however I do also frequently get ideas that come to me randomly which I immediately write down to save for later. It feels like it is from a muse for sure. My muse is a very generous one who in my mind, rewards me with great frequency. The muse, I learned is as good a reason as any to justify to one self as to where in the world the ideas come from. They do at times most certainly seem to come from thin air and I find the very act of writing and not stopping, produces the greatest fruit.

Mark

7/31/2019 09:28:00 pm

You are a writing rock star! I have heard many authors moan about writer's block. I think there are different reasons for some writers to get writer's block, many writers do not seem to have a big struggle with writer's block. You are hearing your muse and your system really works for you. Every author has to find the system that works for them.
I have heard it said more than once, just start writing and the words will flow. I can certainly understand how intimidating the blank page is.
New questions.
What software do you use to write your books, and why do you use those?
How do you keep track of all the characters and events in your books?

MK Schultz link

7/31/2019 09:51:31 pm

I started writing my book on my phone with a wireless keyboard and a mouse, using the Google Docs app. I loved it because I never had a worry about loosing anything, and the mobility of it gave me the flexibility to review or edit on the fly from anywhere. Later, I upgraded to a laptop, however I still use Google Docs.

I keep a very detailed log in a Google Sheets file. For me it is part of the writing process. After each writing session, I update the word count on it, along with chapter name, chapter summary, new character log and descriptions as they appear ect., ect. The more detailed the better for me and even though I spend quite a bit of each session updating it, it has proven itself 10 fold to me. I just keep way better focus and it keeps me on target. I have a rough plan for how long I want my book to be and how many chapters along with the number of words for each chapter. Because I know what I am capable of, I enter in target completion dates for each chapter as well. In addition to this, upon the completion of each session, I always write a few lines of direction to myself of where to continue while it is still fresh in my mind so that when I do get a chance to sit down for my next writing session, I can hit the ground running. My dream is to one day have more time in my daily schedule to write but for now this system is working pretty good in conjunction with my busy work schedule in my day job.

Mark

7/31/2019 10:22:22 pm

That does sound like a good system to me. Those notes really keep you on track. I heard an interesting idea some time ago, instead of stopping at the end of a chapter, stop in the middle. That way you will know where you are going when you come back to it. That might be more useful for a writer that is not as organized as you are.
I have had clients send me a book in Google doc format. I have found it difficult to do my kind of work, not impossible, just difficult. I use MS Word for my proofreading work.
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?
Do you have 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?

MK Schultz link

8/1/2019 02:36:14 pm

In my experience with writing, I have found the characters do seem to become alive in my mind and as such appear to influence and take the story into a different direction. It is a very exciting feeling when this occurs and I get a big rush from it.

I do no have a defined writing space. I am very mobile with Google Docs so I write everywhere. I have written in restaurants, bars, outside on my deck, in my screened in porch, and even while on vacation. Some of my best writing was in hotel rooms when traveling alone. The muse seems to be able to communicate stronger with me depending on where I am writing.

Sometimes I listen to heavy metal music, but mostly I write in quiet. It depends on my mood, the location and the time of day.

Mark

8/1/2019 02:56:05 pm

How fortunate for you, many writers have a single place set up and go through a routine to prepare themselves to write. Some need music, some don't, some light candles and some don't.
The characters come alive for me the reader also, some more than others. The writing makes the difference.
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?

MK Schultz link

8/1/2019 03:12:48 pm

I find narration the easiest however I enjoy writing dialogue and action very much.

For me the easiest sense to write is sight and the hardest I think would be touch. I enjoy writing about emotion and how outside influences make you feel and what memories and thoughts they conjure as well.

Mark

8/1/2019 05:02:10 pm

It seems most authors find narration the easiest. Actually, I am not surprised, because we are all tellers of stories at heart.
It seems smell is very influential in triggering memories for a lot of us, also. People with PTSD can easily be triggered by smells and sounds as well.
New questions.
Have you ever done any theater, written a play or any screenwriting?
What kind of marketing are you doing or planning on doing for your book?

MK Schultz link

8/1/2019 07:01:08 pm

I have not done any theatre nor have I written any plays or the like. I do think "Kassius Kanex" would make a good movie or TV series and I did have that in the back of my mind as I wrote it. Here's to dreaming.

For marketing, I really appreciate what you are doing. I also have a marketing strategy that my Publisher is launching soon. As soon as the details are finalized and there is a launch date, I will tweet it out and post it on my website. I also have a short interview coming out soon on a blogger's site who contacted me which I will also announce when she posts it. Other than that, I plan on keeping on going and I am sure other opportunities will come up.

Mark

8/1/2019 08:40:36 pm

Do you know anyone who is a screenwriter or a playwright? They might be able to assist you. I have a list of those kinds of people also on my Twitter home page.
Marketing is an untamable beast, according to many authors. I think that's due in part because writing the first draft is such a solitary project. Marketing your book, selling your book to strangers is a scary prospect to creative introverts.
A long time ago a writer had a decent chance of getting a contract with a publisher, not nearly so much now. One of the guest posts on my website is How to Get Your First 1000 Readers. You might gain some benefit from that.
New questions.
Speaking of marketing, why did you pick me to help promote your book?
Have you ever thought of adding music to your books, like what the characters listen to or they went to a concert as a plot point?

MK Schultz link

8/1/2019 09:01:51 pm

Thanks. I gotta check your site out more thoroughly. I am somewhat of an introvert to be sure, however it is not marketing my book to strangers that I am worried about. Instead it is to people I know. I do tread that ground very carefully and selectively. I believe in my book and I feel strongly that others will identify with the positive messages it contains.

When I was attempting to market my book, I came across you on Twitter. You were not hard to miss because your name is Mark Schultz and my name is Mark Schultz. Those who have read my book will get this, but I read into this as a form of destiny and I was not about to ignore it. The coincidence level was far to massive for me to even think about ignoring it. For the very theme of my book seems to always propel itself into my real life or so it seems.

I do make it known that the main character in my book, Kassius Kanex listens to heavy metal music specifically Iron Maiden. I even include an Iron Maiden quote in the beginning pages of my book that ominously foreshadows what lies ahead for the reader.

Mark

8/1/2019 09:15:22 pm

Our very similar names are certainly a bit of serendipity or coincidence. That makes a lot of sense to me. When a hand bigger than your own seems to be pointing in a direction it's wise to at least investigate. I am quite happy I have been able to assist you in marketing your book a little bit. I am one piece of a big puzzle.
I forgot about the Iron Maiden quote. Very good.
New questions.
How do you know when a book is finished?
Did anything in the book come as a surprise while you were writing?

MK Schultz link

8/1/2019 10:25:42 pm

I have only written one book so far, but I knew when it was completed just as I knew I was breathing. It was cyrstal clear.

I found myself quite surprised at several turning points in the book. The process was made know as important to me when while writing certain scenes, emotions such as chills, tears, exhilaration, happiness and helplessness all came upon me.

Mark

8/2/2019 09:28:23 am

Some authors require an intervention before they will let go of their book and allow it to be published. Their reasons can vary, but a few are afraid of the potential rejection.
Some books have more of an emotional impact than others. For me, that is a measure of good writing and my own emotional involvement.
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 many drafts did you go through to have a ready-to-publish manuscript?

MK Schultz link

8/2/2019 10:13:08 am

I do the research along the way. My 10th draft became my published book.

Mark

8/2/2019 11:10:16 am

Succinct answers.
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?

MK Schultz link

8/2/2019 03:28:04 pm

I recall enjoying creative writing classes in grade school and feeling pretty good about my writing and yet only receiving C's. In high school I remember enjoying English Literature and writing book reports and also only receiving C's. It never crossed my mind back then that I would become a published author. I simply wasn't good enough or smart enough in my mind and I lacked confidence in myself.

In my working career early on, I strangely enjoyed piecing together sentences in emails and correspondence with clients.

I wrote a short story once a and submitted it to a radio station but did not hear back anything. I wrote a poem for my wife shortly after we had our first child. I also used to write articles for a church news letter about 15 years ago. That was when I started to get a stronger interest in writing I think. I knew I wanted to write a book and so I did start to write one on the topic of theology however I ran out of steam and interest with it. It wasn't until I got the idea to start writing fiction that my interest for writing really took off. Looking back in hind sight, I think I always did enjoy writing but I never took it to another level until much later. The power of words is very clear to me now and I regularly get chills when I write.

Mark

8/2/2019 03:40:33 pm

You had the writing bug from an early age. It wasn't recognized by any of your instructors. You persevered and have a published book! So many people think about writing a book for much of their life and never put pen to paper. A few of those actually do start writing and get a few pages complete and stop for any number of reasons. A few of those actually write a first draft and are so disgusted by how bad it is they put it in a drawer and never return to it. A few of those will dig it out, sooner or later, get some advice and education and edit and rewrite. A few of those actually publish. You are one of the few and the brave.
New questions.
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?
If you do, how did you find them?
At what stage in your writing process do you bring in the readers?

MK Schultz link

8/2/2019 04:12:49 pm

I had six people I know very well read my manuscript prior to publication. I received some feed back and as a result I made a few tweaks but all in all I didn't change much. My focus primarily was on plot holes, grammar and spelling. My publisher was helpful as they provided a critique which I took some of the advise from. I had one person on my 10th draft do a run through to catch more errors etc. and then that was it. I learned a lot and I can't wait to get my second book completed as there are a few things I want to implement that I wasn't aware of on my first book.

I think I am a very selfish writer because I really have no interest in beta readers or listening to feed back on things I should add or change. I will keep it just how I wrote it thank you very much, however I do welcome the grammar, plot holes and typo feedback.

No one will read a single word of my writing until I have completed it and have done at least one edit and proofread run through of it. I don't even talk about my story until it is complete because again, I am selfish and no one is going to influence or tell me what they think should or shouldn't go into my book.
One final thought on this I feel is summarized quite well by the main chorus in the song "The Journeyman" by Iron Maiden

"I know what I want
And I say what I want
And no one can take it away."

Mark

8/2/2019 04:19:41 pm

Very good. That is a slightly different take on beta readers, but as long as it works for you that's great!
I do appreciate your desire to not dilute the message of your book. Some authors feel very strongly about that.
New questions.
Do you reward the beta readers in any way particular?
Do you have other writers you connect with, as in a critique group or support group?
Do you read very much science fiction just for fun?

MK Schultz link

8/2/2019 04:31:14 pm

I rewarded my beta readers (friends and family) by thanking them on the acknowledgement page of my book and by giving them a signed copy with a personal message.

I am friends with two other published authors, and I also enjoy engaging with other writers on Twitter. It has been invaluable to discuss the craft of writing with others who partake in it and understand.

I don't read too much Science Fiction however I consume alot of tv and movies of that genre. My reading consists mostly of Stephen King type novels and the like. I recently read the Bill Hodges trilogy and thoroughly enjoyed it.

Mark

8/2/2019 05:05:12 pm

I have no doubt that your friends appreciate your gift of thanks to them. If you ever want to find some other beta readers I have a list of them, among my other lists, on my Twitter home page.
New questions.
What is the most important thing you learned from publishing your book?
What are three things, that you wish you knew before you wrote your first book?

MK Schultz link

8/2/2019 06:51:18 pm

Publishing my first book has been an incredible three year journey. One year to write it, one year of attempting to get it traditionally published, and one year to refine and self publish it myself. But now I when I sit back and look at it, I am proud of Kassius Kanex even with all its flaws and scars. I feel it is honest and true and the journey has taught me that I am a writer. What an amazing lesson I have learned indeed.

The thing I love about writing is that it suits my introverted personality and therefore unlike other things in life, you don't have to endure other people's dynamics while writing the manuscript because no one even is aware that you are doing it.

Here are three things that I wish I knew before writing my first book.
1. Proper structure of dialogue, paragraphs and other structures.
2. More contacts like yourself with access to beta reader lists, and affordable proof reading.
3. Better knowledge of the literary industry and its workings.

Mark

8/2/2019 07:25:42 pm

Your journey has been quite interesting and one that many other authors can identify with. Your book is worthy of pride, it's a good story.
I am honored to be a small part of your adventure. I have many different services listed on my Twitter home page.
You might enjoy reading two of my favorite blogs Anne R Allen writes the first one and Joanna Penn writes the second. Those two blogs will provide you a lot of industry information. Reading their backlog might be quite interesting also.
New questions.
Your book touches several different genres while being primarily a sci-fi novel. Are there any issues that are peculiar to writing science fiction that might not apply to other genres?
What is the most valuable piece of advice you have ever received from another writer?

MK Schultz link

8/2/2019 09:09:36 pm

Life is tough, and even if it is kind to you for the time being it will sooner or later beat the crap out of you. For this very reason, I have always enjoyed movies, tv and books because what they do is take you away for a bit and when they have hold of you, it seems as though, albeit even just for a moment, that you are invincible and you can just enjoy what they are presenting you with. Writing science fiction I think, more than any other genre can achieve this to an even higher degree because through it, anything can be fixed, even death as Kassius Kanex learns.

Advice I received from other writers varies. From Stephen King, I learned that to be a writer you must do two things. Read a lot and write a lot. I believe this to be true, although I would also include the consumption of stories from other media such as audio books, movies and tv as valid. From other writers in my life, one valuable piece of advice I received is to not write with the intent to get rich. It is good advice because for me, writing is an art that is already giving back ten fold by providing a vessel to express one self and this is not only for the betterment of the author but also potentially for the good of other people as well. However, if writing can provide food on the table and shelter for the author, than I believe it only would benefit others even more because then said writer could write a lot more.

Mark

8/2/2019 09:19:19 pm

Life can be brutal. Sometimes we suffer from our own choices, other times we suffer from the choices of others. This life is frequently not easy.
That was good advice from King and others. Many writers think their book is going to take the world by storm and the reality is it will e more like a drip from a faucet with a worn washer. With so many books being published every year, day in and day out, it takes a concerted effort over a long period of time or a large pile of money to cause a book to rise to the top.
New questions.
Do you think a strong ego is an asset or liability for a writer and why?
What are common traps for beginning writers?

MK Schultz link

8/2/2019 10:45:54 pm

I think a strong ego is paramount for a writer except that it must be tempered with a large dose of humbleness. You kind of need the best of both worlds. Ego to have the guts and/or the blind stupidity to set your art free for all to consume and humbleness to realize that it is not going to be liked by all or many or even some perhaps, but that is ok.

I think a common traps for a writer is to believe they are going to collect the big cheque and that their writing is spectacular. I would bet that even the most successful writers doubted the quality and worthiness of their work. In the end, because art is subjective, I don't think their is a formula for success in the financial aspect of things, but I do believe that success in a different form is a guarantee if all you are asking for is to be respected for the honesty and sincere expression of thoughts and feelings that you are willing to share. And if it ends up paying the bills as well, then what a bonus that would be.

Mark

8/2/2019 11:20:42 pm

You did a good job of describing the balance that is needed. An author needs a lot of both.
You make an excellent point. Every book has an audience, the opposite is also true, every book has a non-audience, the book that is universally loved and adored will never be written. Every reader comes to the book with their background and experiences that are different from the author. Sometimes it's a good fit and sometimes not.
New questions.
Can you describe the demographic of your ideal reader? Who is the core audience you are seeking to find?
Do you have anything you consider to be your writing lucky charm?

MK Schultz link

8/2/2019 11:52:01 pm

I don't really think my core audience can be limited or identified to a set group. I have met a lot of people who like a lot of different things. You just never know I think. However, I will say that my books are not for kids as I do try to push the limits somewhat. There is violence and some inappropriate language contained in my books so I suppose that would eliminate some people but that is ok. I do not want to offend anyone but instead I just want to tell a fictional story with nothing held back. The events that take place in my writing depends on the the personalities of the characters and sometimes they are not even in alignment with me.

When I wrote Kassius Kanex, I began to wear a necklace with a fish pendant on it. Whenever I would begin a writing session, I would first begin by putting on the necklace in a ceremonial way transforming myself into Kassius Kanex himself as I wrote his story. I was a very powerful and exhilarating experience that I do not expect everyone to understand.

Mark

8/3/2019 11:10:32 am

A lot of people do like science fiction, no doubt about that. You may want to take a look at a previous review, "Gnosis" by Rick Hall. He had an interesting answer to the same question. I think you and he could become friends.
A ritual as simple as putting on a necklace, or as complicated as placing a dozen candles in a pattern and lighting them can have a transformative effect.
New questions.
What is the biggest obstacle you face in writing?
What is your writing Kryptonite and how has it affected you?

MK Schultz link

8/3/2019 02:05:03 pm

Your feedback is very interesting. I already have a few things to check into and the list is growing.

My biggest obstacle I face in writing is time. Working a demanding full time job and keeping up with chores at my country home keep my very busy and it can be very challenging to fit writing in at times.

My writing Kryptonite is having too many things on the go at once. I find that when I do, I write less frequently because in the back of my mind I tell myself that I will write as soon as A, B and C are completed. Its easy for me to put off writing during these periods. I find it easier to get motivated when I have a cleaner slate because then I can focus better. It is as though my brain needs to be purged a bit to make more room for allowing myself to focus on my writing.

Mark

8/3/2019 03:44:46 pm

Working full time and living in the country takes a lot of time, without a doubt. It requires a fair amount of planning and patience to find time for writing.
New questions.
Do you struggle with writer's block, if so, how do you overcome it?
If you branch out into a different genre, will you use a pen name, why or why not?

MK Schultz link

8/3/2019 04:04:55 pm

I haven't had a bout of writer's block yet but I am sure I will. So far I am 20,000 words into my second book and just like on my first book, once the characters and story has started, I don't seem to struggle with spitting the words out. It flows pretty natural for me it seems. I think one reason for this is that when I am in a regular committed zone of writing I get very consumed with it and think about it non-stop. My commute to my day job every day is 75minutes each way so I use that time to focus on thinking about my story and where it is going. Sometimes when ideas come to me, I will use voice dictation on my phone while driving to record the thoughts so I don't forget. Then by the time I sit down for my next writing session, I usually have more then enough material to put down.

My current pen name is MK Schultz which is not really a pen name I guess, because M.K. is the initials of my first and second name but I wanted my author name to differ from my every day name to sort of keep the two worlds separate. If I do write another genre, I would see myself just using the same pen name. I don't think I would want to create a new one because then I would have to start all over marketing a new name and I would rather just focus on the MK Schultz author name.

Mark

8/4/2019 10:10:40 am

That commute gives you a lot of cogitation time. You are putting it to good use. Dictating your thoughts is brilliant move too.
New questions.
Are there any writing styles or genres that you disliked at first but soon came to like?
Have you ever read a book that changed the way you look at writing?

MK Schultz link

8/4/2019 09:51:30 am

Early in High school, I recall disliking Shakespeare but soon after, I began to have an appreciation for Macbeth and the like. I think it started to stoke the fire inside of me too, and lead to my love of language and the written word.

Stephen King's "It", had some influence on me and I recall being pleasantly surprised and enjoyed it more than I thought I would. It is long and has a lot of scenes in it that are incredibly descriptive.

Mark

8/4/2019 10:16:51 am

Shakespeare was hard to swallow at first, when studying his writing in high school. The lyrical quality reminded me of the KJV version of the bible. I grew to appreciate his skill as a wordsmith and really enjoyed his humor, when I could understand it.
I have started reading King's "On Writing" and have not finished the biographical bit, yet. I have enjoyed that much. I am not a fan of horror, although I am learning to appreciate it more over time.
New questions.
What type of book is your favorite guilty pleasure to read for fun?
Would you agree or disagree with the statement: suffering is a requirement to be a good writer, and why?

MK Schultz link

8/5/2019 08:33:23 am

I enjoy reading Bruce Campbell's books, especially "If Chins Could Kill: Confessions of a B Movie Actor." It is a humorous and entertaining read.

Suffering, unhappiness and lack of contentment in general is what broke the straw on the camel's back for me, catapulting me to ultimately become a writer. I don't think suffering is requirement because I am certain there are plenty of good books written by authors who are happy, however if one is suffering I do believe that the negative energy can be harnessed and aimed to create really good art.

Mark

8/5/2019 11:43:02 am

I love to read humorous material, I will have to look Bruce Campbell up.
Suffering does drive from our comfort zone, eventually. For many, the devil they know is better than the one they don't know. It takes courage to leap into the unknown.
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?

MK Schultz link

8/5/2019 02:37:15 pm

I don't really brainstorm with anyone when it comes to my story ideas. I work alone when it comes to the actual story. I do enjoy brainstorming about writing in general and the marketing side of it.

For me, the best money I ever spent as a writer to enhance my career was to break into the industry via self publication. Self publication I believe is THE way to go for a debut author. I thought I would be able to get picked up by a traditional publisher and so I tried for one year. With traditional publication, you are given an advance but then royalties are not paid to the author until the advance is paid for. With self publication, you pay the "advance", and then royalties begin immediately to pay off the "advance". The traditional publisher will be super selective with a debut author and I don't blame them because they are investing in the advance with no guarantee they will make it back. With self publication, you believe in yourself and that is why it makes sense that you are the investor. At least that's the way I like to look at it.

Mark

8/5/2019 03:04:38 pm

Your explanation about the advance provides me with more clarity than I have had before. I know the traditional publisher is taking a gamble, they have been getting beat up by the radical changes in the industry brought on by Amazon mostly. They have watched their profit margins shrink and so many have fallen off the map.
I do agree with you that being self-published is a key part of getting noticed by a traditional publisher. Many of them want you to have an active social media presence on multiple platforms, a solid fan base represented by a website mailing list numbering in the thousands. There are a lot of balls to keep juggling all while writing and marketing.
New questions.
Do you subscribe to any magazines, newsletters, blogs or podcasts that enhance your writing career? Feel free to share as many as you would like.
What are your favorite reference books for grammar and writing?

MK Schultz link

8/5/2019 03:32:16 pm

I have tapped into the Author learning center available on my Publisher's website at iuniverse.com. It has a lot of resources. Finding the time to consume it is challenging for me though. I also

For grammar writing rules, I use Google it and try to look at a few different pages to try and get a consensus in the responses.

Some fantastic books that have helped to educate and inspire me are "Get Published" by iUniverse, "On Writing" by Stephen King, "Big Magic" by Elizabeth Gilbert and "Steal like an Artist" by Austin Kleon.

Mark

8/5/2019 03:45:09 pm

Time is a big factor, even for a old, retired guy like me. It forces me to step away from twitter. ;-)
Is the author learning center open to anyone or only members?
There is a plethora of information to be found through Google, sorting through it all can be an interesting exercise. I think you are wise to seek a consensus of several opinions, because there are differing opinions on many different topics regarding grammar usage.
New questions.
Have you ever created a throw-away character that developed into a major player?
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?

MK Schultz link

8/5/2019 04:21:21 pm

Author Learning Center is $9.99 per month at iUniverse.com. If you have time it is worth it in my opinion because everything it there for the writer.

I wouldn't say the characters were "throw away" however the engineers in Kassius Kanex are going to return in my writing as I have other ideas for them.

I think most writers write in third person POV because the story they are telling is far removed from their actual life, or so they would like you to think.

I believe that I was born to write even though I started later than many. I have always searched for my passion and destiny and much like my character Kassius Kanex, I have always felt like an impostor in most of my working career. To finally find my passion and to come to the realization of what I actually love to do has been the most exciting discovery I have ever made in life.

Mark

8/5/2019 04:30:21 pm

A lot of authors have been late starters. I am glad you have reached this spot in your life. Doing what you love makes it easy even in the difficult spots.
The engineers are an interesting group. I look forward to their return.
New questions.
How did you celebrate when you published a book?
How many times did you rewrite the first page, first chapter?

MK Schultz link

8/5/2019 04:42:48 pm

I celebrated Kassius Kanex style with a BBQ party and heavy metal music and beer. It was so exhilarating. I already knew that it had been accomplished and then my publisher called (during the party no less) to tell me that Kassius Kanex was now live and available on Amazon and my brain twisted his words to "Kassius Kanex is now alive". I was pumped. The dream was real and I did it, I thought, as two large tears fell from my eyes.

I edited / re-wrote the entire book 10 times until I was content to release it.

Mark

8/5/2019 05:17:51 pm

That had to be a great moment! Very exciting! Ten is a good number. I have seen too many books where a second or third draft of a book has been published and it was so hard to read.
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 have any Easter eggs hidden in your stories that only close friends or family members would recognize?
Do you think good marketing can overcome the limitations of a mediocre book?

MK Schultz link

8/5/2019 05:32:41 pm

During the writing of Kassius Kanex, that realization started with me. Kassius Kanex changed my life and I believe it has a lot of power and I dream of hearing from readers who find value and inspiration within it to have a positive effect on their life as well, even if it is only in a small way.

Hidden Easter eggs are plentiful in Kassius Kanex for close friends, family members and for future readers should they take a keen interest in the Kassius Kanex universe. There are also plenty of Easter eggs within Kassius Kanex that will not be recognized by anyone but me. That is a guilty little satisfaction of mine for sure.

I think a mediocre book or even a down right bad one can perform well beyond its potential with good marketing. There are plenty of bad movies that are proof of this. I also believe that there are gems out there that never reach the potential they deserve due to a lack of marketing.

Mark

8/5/2019 06:13:54 pm

It sounds like at first, Kassius' life mirrored your own. You and Kassius found a great deal of satisfaction in following your dreams. That is very cool. Engaging in creative activity is very satisfying.
Good marketing can boost a mediocre property by quite a bit. Although, I think the quality will eventually catch up and the run will slow down and end.
New questions.
What is the biggest myth about writing that would help aspiring authors?
Do you base your characters on people you know or have met, or is it easier to just invent them completely?
Some authors go to great lengths to get inside the heads of their characters. Some create a biography, find photos that match the picture in their head, fill out psychological profiles. What do you do in that regard, if anything?

MK Schultz link

8/5/2019 06:29:53 pm

For me, the biggest myth is that you need to be some sort of intellectual superior minded individual who is part of an elite class. Most people can read and write and I think the only other qualification needed is the desire to write and express oneself.

Some of the characters in my books are based on real people and then I tweak them a bit. Other characters are completely made up and that I think is a large part of the fun.

For my characters, I record thier name, personality and other descriptions of them in a spreadsheet which I constantly re-visit to not only remind me of who they are but also to add other developments to their character as they grow. As far as looks, a character like Rock could actually be personified by someone like Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson but I didn't plan it like that in the beginning. Other characters do have images that I try to project to the reader but for the most part I leave the visual image of the character to the reader which is one of the beauties of writing.

Mark

8/5/2019 06:52:03 pm

The deep desire is very important.
That is a good idea, leaving a lot of the visual image to the reader. I think it can bring them deeper into the story.
New questions.
Did you have any large pieces of the story that were removed from this book? If, so why did you remove them?
Do you have any problems when writing about characters of the opposite sex, why or why not?
How do you balance the demands on your time as a writer with personal relationships?

MK Schultz link

8/5/2019 07:03:31 pm

Large pieces were not removed, instead about 5,000 words were added during my re-writes.

Writing about the opposite sex is fairly natural to me I think. I grew up with an older sister and I was close with my mom. I love my wife and as for my daughter, well for those who have read Kassius Kanex it would be easiest for me to compare it with that. In general, I have always felt very comfortable interacting with the opposite sex.

Although life is busy and people like to use the phrase "I don't have any time for that," you just have to find a way to fit it all in. You have to! It is doable too, if you learn to prioritize and use your time wisely.

Mark

8/5/2019 07:19:03 pm

You did well writing all your characters.
Life is very busy, but we always make time for the priorities in our life. You can tell what is important to a person by what they do with their time. We all have the same 24 hours.
New questions.
Do you have any other passions or creative outlets to pursue if you didn't write?
Is there a cause you are passionate about?
What type of scenes do you find hard to write and why?

MK Schultz link

8/5/2019 07:38:49 pm

I am passionate about BBQing, fishing, boating, country life, and family. I was passionate about theology and earlier on I did consider pursuing it further. I still do find it fascinating but I think my true passion is creating art through fiction with theology fitting in as more of a faith based spirituality to reflect upon and to provide a place to turn to for my own peace of mind.

I find it most difficult to write scenes that develop slowly and methodically as I enjoy getting to the point fairly quickly. I would apply this to chapter by chapter however and not for the entire story because I do enjoy keeping things hidden and building them slowly for the long haul. I just struggle with it in the shorter frame of reference of the chapter itself.

Mark

8/5/2019 07:45:42 pm

Loving the life in the country is a familiar refrain from your book. Kassius made that statement probably ten times or more.
Art through fiction is a noble undertaking, that's what Jesus did with his parables.
New questions.
How do you maintain the excitement for yourself? Your excitement will impact others around you, especially marketing.
What area of your writing has the greatest need for improvement at this time?
Is there a skill you would like to have that might help you as an author?

MK Schultz link

8/5/2019 07:59:41 pm

This journey is still somewhat fresh for me to the excitement comes pretty easy. My dream is to one day be able to write much more frequently and so I think this is an energy that I try to tap into.

I know that there is a lot of room for improvement in my writing. But I also think that since it is art, it is subjective as well so I don't really worry too much about it. But that doesn't mean that I won't strive to get better, because I most definitely will.

I think a better memory would help a lot but my work around for that is good record keeping.

Mark

8/5/2019 08:15:41 pm

Your passion will remain for a long time, I think. AS you said, it's all quite fresh for you still.
It seems there is always room for improvement in writing. I have no doubt you will seek that as long as you are above room temperature.
You have a good handle on the recordkeeping, it will serve you well. New questions.
When do you think your next book will be published?
What will you do differently with this new book, in terms of publishing?
Have you ever killed off a character unwillingly because it fit the plot?

MK Schultz link

8/5/2019 08:29:46 pm

I was hoping my second book would be published before 2019 ended but, I have a feeling it will be some time in 2020.

I am open to traditional publication or another opportunity should it present itself however if nothing changes, I will self publish through iUniverse again. Once thing differently I will do is perhaps beta readers and proof reading services from you.

Yes I did, however in the interest of no spoilers I will not elaborate further except for saying that there is an undo button.

Mark

8/5/2019 08:41:07 pm

If it takes a little bit longer it will be worth it to you and your fans. This is a long term game, like an ultra-marathon.
It is fairly unlikely another publisher will seek you out, though I never say never. So many publishers have authors beating on their door. They don't have a lot of impetus to leave the fort.
If you have any trouble finding beta readers, keep in mind that is one of the many lists on my Twitter profile page.
That undo button, is it anything like the Easy button?
New questions.
How do you deal with a difficult section in a WIP? Have you ever read that section out loud to sort out the difficulty?
Is there any particular time of the day that ideas usually hit you?
For your own reading, do you prefer ebooks or print books?

MK Schultz link

8/6/2019 11:57:56 am

For difficult sections in a WIP, I find reading slow and aloud helps along with writing notes to sort things out.

Ideas hit me at any time of day. Even in dreams or when awake in the middle of the night. I sometimes write notes late at night when this happens.

I prefer print books but I also enjoy audio book as well because then I can take advantage of my long commute time to my day job.

Mark

8/6/2019 12:09:01 pm

Another idea that some authors use is writing the scene from the point of view of a different character than planned, just for perspective.
I know one author who is regularly woken at 2:30 am, she keeps pad and pen near the bed also.
You and a lot of other people do the same thing. I just read this morning that audio books are almost a billion dollar industry in America. It's worth much more worldwide. Have you thought about doing an audio book? I have a list of people who make audio books on my Twitter profile page.
Last questions.
What are your thoughts on bad book reviews?
Have you thought about doing a book trailer?

MK Schultz link

8/6/2019 12:23:35 pm

I am currently in the planning stages to do an audio book. I have access to a recording studio and my publisher has already confirmed to me that they will distribute it if I can provide the audio file.

If I get a bad book review I will try not to let it bother me. If I only get bad book reviews and no good ones, then that would be harder to swallow I think.

I had not heard of a book trailer but I just Googled it and I am definitely interested in this. Stay tuned to my Twitter account and my Website for the latest updates.

Thank you very much for this opportunity Mark.
All the best,
MK Schultz

Mark

8/6/2019 12:30:22 pm

I am glad you are going to make an audio version. There are many countries all over the world that use English as an official language, those many millions of people are hungry for content in English. I hope you go worldwide.
Of course, I have a list of people who make trailers on my Twitter profile page. Aimee Bejarano has been recommended to me highly.
This has been a lot of fun talking with you. I thank you for sharing your writing and publishing journey. I wish you much success.

MK Schultz link

8/6/2019 03:29:18 pm

I certainly will be checking into the very helpful suggestions and resources that you have available. Thank you for providing this platform for me to discuss my work.

MK Schultz, Author of Kassius Kanex and more books to come!

Kassius Kanex By MK Schultz

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