Comic Con Week. That's a Wrap!

Last week was absolutely crazy! It started out with my cat eating rat poison, getting pulled over while running errands, planning and preparing for a baby blessing event, and signing and speaking at Comic Con. It's safe to say that by the end of the week I was exhausted. But even with the madness of it all, I got to meet incredible writers, artists, and fans at Comic Con and speak about subjects that I love. 

I'm sorry if I missed you! Everything right now is a balancing act, but I had a great time on panels talking about writing, Disney sidekicks, Disney villains, Harry Potter, and The Muppets. Yes, The Muppets--that was such a zany, fun, and energetic panel. I could not stop smiling. I think my favorite part was when these colorful aliens above came shuffling down the aisle mid-panel. Afterwards we took a picture together and I'm guessing my arm was pretty tasty!

I have loved being a part of Salt Lake Comic Con, and I'm so appreciative of all the hard work that goes into planning. It's  incredible to be able to experience such talent and join together to celebrate some of our favorite things.

Here's till next year!  

What were some of your favorite parts of Salt Lake Comic Con? 

(P.S. My Cat is okay! He's a happy kitty and is completely better now).

Salt Lake Comic Con 2014

Salt Lake Comic Con is this week! I am so excited to be a panelist and discuss writing, Disney villains and sidekicks, and Harry Potter. If you're there, come check out these fun panels!

Thursday September 4, 7:00 pm
Disney Silent Sidekicks
Room 251A

Friday September 5, 5:00 pm
Muppets
Room 255B

Saturday September 6, 2:00 pm
Your Own Visit to Hogwarts: Real- World Potter Magic in Florida and England
Room 255F

Saturday September 6, 6:00 pm
My Favorite Disney Princess Villain
Room 251A

SaltlakeComicCon.com

The Shapeshifter's Secret Giveaway!

Hey everyone, I just wanted to let you know about a giveaway hosted by Author Konstanz Silverbow. Check out her Facebook page here to enter to win a hardback copy of The Shapeshifter's Secret. The giveaway ends tomorrow, so make sure you enter soon!

Thank you!

Click play.

Cover Reveal for The Secret of Darkwood Castle!

It's here and it's beautiful! I am so excited to release the last book in The Shapeshifter's Secret Series. Jackie Hicken did an absolutely amazing job on this cover, and I can't wait for The Secret of Darkwood Castle to come out May 21st. Stay tuned for the blog tour schedule, online launch party details, and giveaways! 

Comic Con FanXperience

I can't even begin to explain the fun craziness that is Comic Con! There is just SO much going on in one place. It's like Disneyland for Salt Lake City. In no particular order, here is a little bit of my FanX experience so far. 

My sister Michelle and I making friends with Star Wars stormtroopers.

Getting ready to speak on another fun writing panel with Utah authors. Last night we spoke about villains, one of my favorite subjects.  

Signing at the Deseret Book booth. 

My mom fist bumping Jonathan Frakes. She's so cool. 

Oh, you know, Thor waiting in line for Pizza. Even superheros get hungry! 

David Bowie minus the terrifying puppets from Labyrinth. 

Oh, it's a jolly holiday with Mary...

Loki just being awesome (see, I like villains). 

A whole Star Wars family complete with an adorable ewok. I hope they took a family picture to use for their Christmas card! 

And Karl Urban from Star Trek and Lord of the Rings. One girl came up to ask him a question and erupted into a fit of giggles before she could even speak to him. It was a pretty great panel. 

Author Shannen Crane Camp and I trying to soak it all in with pink pants and pink hair. 

Stay tuned for Comic Con FanXperience part 2! 

How to Ask an Author for Help

I get a lot of people asking me for advice on how to get published. 

When I was first writing my novels I learned quickly the best and worst ways to ask an author for help. Certain things you say can really help you out, while other comments can be offensive to authors. I've compiled a list below of do's and don'ts. These are actual questions and comments I've heard while being approached for help. 

PLEASE never ever say to an author:

• "I want to get published. Obviously you know how to get into bookstores. So tell me how you did that." 

I understand that you genuinely want to learn how to become a successful author. However, please assume that most writers spent years learning the art, going to school, writing their novels, and working to get published. When someone asks me like that, I feel that they are looking for a one sentence answer of how to quickly and easily get published. Would you ask that same question to a doctor, musician, lawyer, artist, or pilot? 

• "I have a great idea for a book. I was wondering if you would be willing to write it for me so that I can get it published. It's a really good idea, you'll definitely like it."

Sigh. Unfortunately I've heard this a lot. If you want someone to write your novel for you then you need to hire a ghostwriter. I have about twenty books that are waiting on the back burner for me to write. Most authors have a lot of ideas for novels and can't take the time to write someone else's book for them (unless they are a professional ghostwriter). 

• "I just finished writing my novel! Will you please read it for me and then tell me how to improve it and get it published?" 

I feel terrible I can't help you, but there are too many problems with this idea. Authors need to spend that time reading and improving their own novels. Also, several authors have been sued because of copyright issues due to this scenario. Basically this is a job for your writer's group or a paid editor. 

• "I live by you, know your aunt, go to the same gym, knew you in jr. high, etc. can you put a good word in for me with your publisher about my book?" 

This just makes authors feel uncomfortable. 

• "It looks like you are successful as an author. Can you tell me how I can quickly publish a book?"

Yes. Go to school for several years to learn how to write, go to at least twenty different writing conferences and classes, take a couple of years to write your novels and edit them, spend months learning the art of writing a query letter, and another couple of years to submit to publishers. Also, make sure you have an amazing, original idea that is trending in the market you're going into. That's it! ;)

How to contact authors:

Almost every author has a blog or website. You can enter their name in a search engine with the word "blog" and their page will come up. I've received so much advice from talented, bestselling authors, and you know how? I put their name in a search engine with "blog" and found their site, then clicked on FAQ or ADVICE TO WRITERS. It helped me so much, and I didn't waste their time or my time. I'd rather spend that time working on my books!

Please do not Facebook message, Twitter message, or Google message authors, unless that author requests so on their blog or website. Most authors have a contact page. When you contact them differently than what their contact page suggests, it shows that you didn't care to take the time to even visit their site and see what they prefer.

If you have written a book, and you are earnestly seeking advice that is not already on their website, there are smart ways to approach the topic. Authors will be more likely to listen to you if you word your comment or question right.

Do say: 

• "I am a fan of your books. I was wondering if I could get some advice..."
• "I met you at "blank" writing convention. I was wondering if I could get some advice..."
• "I went to your class/panel at "blank" writing event. I was wondering if I could get some advice..."
• "I really like your blog/website/Twitter/Instagram account. I was wondering if I could get some advice...."
• "I've checked your FAQ on your blog and I was wondering if I could get some advice..."

(Disclaimer: Make sure you actually did what you are saying).

In my own quest of asking authors for advice, I quickly realized something. If I had read their books, read their blog, gone to their classes, met them at a convention, or had gone to their signings, they were a thousand times more likely to give me advice or help me out! I feel the exact same way when asked for advice about getting published.

Plus, bonus points if you went to my blog and read my "advice to writers" page or FAQ. Then I just want to be your friend because obviously you are a great person with fantastic taste.

If you're ever in doubt, ask yourself how you would want to be approached for advice. Everyone wants to be treated with kindness and respect. Please know that I do love helping writers! I try my best to give genuine advice that will help you accomplish your writing goals. So if you have any questions, my blog is a great place to ask!  

UVU Magazine

A couple of months ago Utah Valley University contacted me and asked if I would be willing to share how my education helped me become an author. I gladly agreed because honestly, I loved my time there. My classes at UVU were incredible. After I graduated I felt inspired and motivated to jump into a career in writing. 

My husband is currently a full time student at UVU, and though he's studying Political Science and going into a completely different field than me, it still makes me miss school. I tell people that and they look at me like I'm crazy. I know, school IS hard. It's a huge commitment and requires a lot of time and work. I remember those late night study sessions and huge paper deadlines. It was difficult. However, my knowledge and feeling of accomplishment I received after I finished was invaluable. 

I told UVU about my experiences and how I felt about my education. I hadn't thought too much about it until a friend texted me recently and said, "You're in my stack of mail!" 

It was a fun surprise and I was happy to finally get a copy :) 

Istanbul, Turkey

Hello! This girl is back from her travels and so excited to tell you about visiting Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Let the pictures begin! 

Obviously Turkey has a lot of Turkish delight! It reminds me of the White Witch on The Lion, the 

witch, and the Wardrobe. Remember when all Edmund wants to eat is Turkish Delight? I loved that it was in every dessert shop, as was Baklava and anything pistachio flavored. 

One of said yummy dessert shops.

The Blue Mosque is absolutely breathtaking. Everyday a prayer is played throughout the whole city, starting at five in the morning and heard every hour until well into the evening.

Inside the Blue Mosque. The ceiling detail and artwork is beautiful! 

My cute friend Malissa and I inside the Blue Mosque courtyard. 

The Hagia Sophia dome. 

Inside the Basilica Cistern. This is an underground system that used to bring water to the city. 

There's fish in there now. Maybe not the best drinking water currently, but still amazing. 

These statues of Medusa were placed in the underground Cistern during the Roman period. The weird part? No one knows why the statue heads were put in upside down and sideways (pictured below). It's a mystery, which of course just makes it so intriguing. I'm so going to write a story about this someday. 

Why is it sideways?! 

Topkapi, a Turkish palace. Learning the history of the royal family is so interesting. Did you know that brothers would battle to become king? They would either win the sword fight and secure their place as king, or die battling. 

Toblerone McFlurry and a cute stray cat. Unfortunately there were so many stray dogs and cats throughout the city, it was painful to see. 

Pomegranate juice stand.

No big. Just balancing a huge tray of bread on his head with no hands. 

The Grand Bazaar was bigger than I ever could have imagined. Honestly, we got lost, but ended up seeing a lot of beautiful lights, lamps, and wood carvings. 

One of the coolest things about Istanbul is that it's the only major city to straddle two continents. We spent most of our time on the European side, however this evening we were on the Asian side. We took a ferry over there to enjoy the freezing, but incredible sunset. 

Stay tuned for adventures in Petra, Jordan! 

Journey of a Fantasy Trilogy

As you know, I finished the third and final book in The Shapeshifter's Secret Series. I've been rewriting and editing like mad to get it ready for a release date in June. It's an exciting experience, but it's also incredibly nerve-racking. I've put my whole heart into this trilogy. I've spent years dreaming up this series and making it come to life. For me, it's a lot of pressure making sure everything wraps up in a way that I feel good about giving it to my readers.

Characters have to find resolution in whatever path they choose. Some will reach their full potential, while others will fall short because of their decisions. Each character has to choose where they stand, and there won't be any gray areas to hide in. Sadly, there is more death in this novel. 

However, with the sadness, comes the stand-up-cheering-smiling-ear-to-ear moments when characters realize who they are. There's a lot of growth and self-discovery. Some relationships end, some relationships start (eek, so excited for this). Characters will live, laugh, and love—and it's all part of the hero's journey.

I can't wait to share this last book with you. Thank you for coming on this crazy adventure with me. Let's party in June at the launch! 

Also, as pictured above, there will be plenty of sword fighting, because swords are awesome. Just thought I'd let you know. 

The Siren's Secret in Deseret News

Last week was so busy that I never got to post about my review from The Deseret News! I absolutely loved what they had to say, and I was thrilled to receive such positive feedback. I've posted  most of the review below, however if you'd like to read the full article, visit Deseretnews.com.

Book Review: 'The Siren's Secret' is a fantastic fantasy for young adult readers. 

"THE SIREN'S SECRET: The Shapeshifter's Secret, Book 2," by Heather Ostler, Cedar Fort.

In a world of shapeshifting werecats and powerful water nymphs, things are not always as simple as they seem.

In her new book, “The Siren’s Secret,” Heather Ostler, a Utah resident of Highland, leads readers back to the magical world of Ossai.

As Julia returns to Lockham, an enchanted school dedicated to educating werecats and nymphs, she feels unsettled. Following a strange encounter with a siren, an untrusted group of women who haunt the magical world, Julia begins to notice strange changes in her life — especially when she is near water. Her dreams are also disconcerting and her perfect world begins to unravel.

Wrenched by strange forces that pull at her soul and tear her away from everything that matters most, Julia finds herself lost in unexplained mysteries and heartaches. Facing an island of devoted but bewitching sirens, a temperamental nymph queen, a truth ring, poisoned swords and a mother who doubles as her archenemy, Julia must fight determinedly just to survive.

When the people she loves lurch in to save her from agony, they too become entangled in torment and Julia is forced to take drastic action. With truths revealed and hearts broken Julia must come to terms with the person she deeply wishes to be so she can defeat the evil that yearns to destroy her.

“The Siren’s Secret” is an animated sequel to Ostler’s first book, “The Shapeshifter’s Secret.” The story strides forward decisively without feeling reckless and the characters are sincere and engaging.

Julia is the classic teenage girl — aside from the fact that she can transform into a tiger — so her emotions propel her toward choices that aren’t always wise. However, her desire to do what is best always sparks through her decisions.

The supporting cast is full of unique and loving friends and family, although most of them play a much smaller role than in the first story, leaving Julia’s connection with some of them feeling fragmented. However, the driving force of the story is powerful enough to carry it through and leave readers anxious for more.

This tale has a bit of everything, as romance, action, magic, adventure, mischief and friendships are scattered liberally through the pages.

The book is geared toward young adults and is a great choice for any young fantasy lover. Parents can be assured that the story is clean with no foul language, sexuality or graphic violence."

By Melissa DeMoux

demouxfamily.blogspot.com.

Lehi Costco Signing

I'm signing tomorrow at the Lehi Costco (198 N 1200 E

Lehi) from 12-3! I'll have candy, bookmarks, and plenty of books! Plus if you stop by, I'll come with you to try all the samples at costco*

*Only if the samples include chocolate ;) 

Hope to see you there! 

The Siren's Secret Launch Party

The Siren's Secret Launch Party was a success! As an author I value the power of words, and a picture is worth 1,000 of them. I have over 20 pictures to show you, so I'll let the pictures do the talking (though I couldn't resit a couple of captions). I had such a fun night, and I loved meeting so many of my readers. Thank you for your support on my journey of seeing The Siren's Secret come to life! 

Loved these sugar cookies from Kneaders. They had "SS" on them in silver, blue, and green. 

My husband. He had to transport so many books, gift baskets, and jars of candy. 10,000 brownie points goes to him for all his help! 

I loved this ensemble. Julia is a werecat tiger after all  and the tiger slippers were absolutely fitting. Why didn't I think to wear those? 

Barnes and Noble did a fantastic job getting everything ready for the launch party. The Shapeshifter's Secret and The Siren's Secret lined the back wall and it looked amazing! 

More support for werecat tigers!

Raffle drawing for the siren gift baskets, mermaid earrings, books, posters, and the iPad Mini. 

Remember those amazing sketches of Julia that I posted earlier this year? Those were done by a talented artist named Anastasia, and she was the winner of the iPad Mini! 

Thanks to those who shared their pictures on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram with #TheSirensSecret!