Sds emblem

SnarkyDarkSy - The Snarky Dark Fantasy Syndicate

  • members:
    3
  • books supported:
    15
  • monthly committments:
    $30.00

This is THE Syndicate for all things snarky and/or Dark Fantasy. If you like your vampire teeth mixed with a little tongue-in-cheek, you've come to the right place! Curated by C. Brennecke

Genres: humor, dark fantasy, urban fantasy, and horror
This syndciate is no longer active.

Books Supported

Members

Joined: Feb 7, 2016
Joined: Apr 18, 2016
Joined: Dec 13, 2015

Discussion

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 6 years ago
Congrats to @K M Cooper  and best of luck on the rest of your campaign! 

C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added about 6 years ago
Wow! Both. I just bought Black Cloud, but supporting Landon can’t go wrong. The other sounds good too. I defer to you. :)
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 6 years ago
Hey guys! This will be the last selection for Snarky DarkSy. I plan on closing the syndicate after this month’s pick. So with that in mind, let’s make it a good one.

There are two projects that have caught my eye so far:

and

@G. A. Finocchiaro and @Rodney V. Smith - let me know what you think!


C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added about 6 years ago
Since I already bought The Seventh Age, I’m fine with Unattractive Vampire. 
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 6 years ago
@Rochelle Campbell @Rodney V. Smith @G. A. Finocchiaro What do you guys thing about choosing a book that’s already available this month? (either An Unattractive Vampire or The Seventh Age: Dawn)  There are only a couple of options that are funding this month, so I thought it might be a good time to temporarily change it up. Let me know what you think. 

Thanks!
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 6 years ago
Congrats to @Zachary Sergi ! The Rise and Fall of Gods and Housewives is our June pick!
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 6 years ago
Sorry! I was attending a funeral and got sidetracked. Rise and Fall of Gods sounds good. @C. Brennecke 

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 6 years ago
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · edited over 6 years ago
Hey guys!

Here’s the two I’m looking at for our June book. Please share your thoughts or toss another suggestion into the ring :)

https://www.inkshares.com/books/the-rise-and-fall-of-gods-and-housewives

I’m not sure if this story becomes dark further into its plot or not, but it certainly captures the sense of humor this group likes.

 

https://www.inkshares.com/books/spiker-s-spiral

A bit more gore-horror than our usual fare, but it’s definitely quirky and fun.


Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 6 years ago
Thanks @G. A. Finocchiaro :)
And good news - Inkshares was able to fix my mistake - Congrats to @JDL Rosell !
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 6 years ago
Not a problem. Life is flying by.
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 6 years ago
I want to apologize for completely missing the cutoff this month. I’ve had a lot of life going on the past few weeks and I didn’t even realize that I missed this until right now. I just sent an email to Inkshares to see if we can get the selection in late, but I wanted to say I’m sorry right away in case that doesn’t work out. 

Sorry!
Cats were gods egypt Rochelle Campbell · Author · added over 6 years ago
Hi Guys, I’ll second it and go with Shadow of the Rook, too.
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 6 years ago
I’ll go Shadow of the Rook. Both sound interesting. 
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 6 years ago
Whoops! Good point, lol. I’ll just delete that then... 
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 6 years ago
Are we allowed to back Worlds Walker a second time? @C. Brennecke 
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · edited over 6 years ago
Hey guys (@Rochelle Campbell @Rodney V. Smith @G. A. Finocchiaro) - Here’s this month’s super short list:

In the Shadow of the Rook

Midnight’s Daughter


It’s time to cast your votes!
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 6 years ago
Congratulations to My Boss is the Devil’s author, @Benjamin Schenkman ! I’m really excited to have another truly snarky and dark project join our ranks. 
Kevin book cover headshot 2017 Kevin O’Coffey · Author · added over 6 years ago
I’m going to have to go Donnie Darko for a bit as I need to financially tighten my belt. Stay well in the interim!
Cats were gods egypt Rochelle Campbell · Author · added over 6 years ago
Wahoo!!! I’m happy dancing! Thank you everyone!  I will be tweeting & chatting up Snarky DarkSY at I-CON32 this weekend!

Best,
Rochelle
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 6 years ago
Hm...Why not both? They both have just a hair over a month to go, so I’m going to go with Fury from Hell this month and lock in My Boss is the Devil for next month. Congratulations to both!
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 6 years ago
Hmmmm...Fury from Hell or My Boss is the Devil both look pretty good. 
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · edited over 6 years ago
Here’s the shortlist:

Fury from Hell




@Rochelle Campbell @Kevin O’Coffey @Rodney V. Smith @G. A. Finocchiaro - Let me know which one you’d like to back most :)

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 6 years ago
(So fancy! lol)

I’ll swing back in a couple of days with a shortlist, but if anyone else has their eye on anything, by all means please share! 
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 6 years ago
Anyone have any suggestions for this month? (Hey look at me! I have 5 minutes of spare time to actually pop onto Inkshares to see what’s up...)
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 6 years ago
Sorry I’ve been MIA! I went ahead and picked Wake Up Call as our February selection. Please check it out and congratulate @J.T.R. Russell !
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 6 years ago
Worlds Walker takes the cake! Congratulations to @Ricardo Henriquez, who has now proven to be a Snarky DarkSy favorite :)
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 6 years ago
I am right there with @Kevin O’Coffey . Worlds Call looks good, and Ricardo is pretty talented. That said, if everyone wants to go back in with some "Soulripping," I am fine with that. I’m still not entirely sure what happened with @Sara Polk ’s situation with the List and all.  @C. Brennecke  @Issa Puppi  @Rodney V. Smith 
Kevin book cover headshot 2017 Kevin O’Coffey · Author · edited over 6 years ago
Worlds Walker looks promising, but is at the beginning of its campaign. That said, I’ve already pre-ordered a copy of  The Delicate Art of Soulripping, so I’m a fan of that work as well. Same goes for Devil’s Call, but that one is on the verge of hitting Quill with about 21 days to go. Those are my thoughts, thanks!  
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 6 years ago
Thanks for the reminder! I’ve been a little MIA this month :)

Yes - Here’s a few I’ve had my eye on:

Shades of Evil
Worlds Walker

Plus, if anyone’s game to re-fund a book we’ve already backed, The Delicate Art of Soulripping has a new campaign and we could show our support for that again.

Thoughts and/or other suggestions?
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 6 years ago
@C. Brennecke  - Any potentials for this month? 
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 6 years ago
Welcome into the syndicate, and a you’re welcome for the pick!
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 6 years ago
Welcome aboard, Kevin :)
Kevin book cover headshot 2017 Kevin O’Coffey · Author · edited over 6 years ago
Hey everyone. A profound thank you again to this group. Looking forward to helping other writers find their way...
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added almost 7 years ago
A potential future pick: https://www.inkshares.com/books/party-hard
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added almost 7 years ago
Kingdom of Dreams right here
Photo apr 05  8 32 18 pm Zaide Williams · Author · added almost 7 years ago
Wow.  Tough choice between Kingdom of Dreams and Devil’s Call.  Perhaps KoD this time around.
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added almost 7 years ago
I’ve already ordered Kingdom of Dreams, and I do believe that is really a worthy title. I’ll stay there. I do like the "A Day in the Lies..." and "Devil’s Call" as well, but KoD has my vote. 
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · edited almost 7 years ago
I’m glad you asked! There are a TON of really good dark fantasy projects on the site right now, so I was a bit picky when creating my short list. That said, if you have your eye on something I didn’t mention, please feel free to add it to the mix :)

Here’s my picks:
A Day in the Lies of Inaru Meiwaku




What say you?

C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added almost 7 years ago
Any thoughts on our December pick?
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added almost 7 years ago
A message from Ryan:

Please express my extreme gratitude and appreciation to The Snarky Dark Fantasy Syndicate for choosing A Tale of Ghosts and Guardians as the November pick. Obviously, today is the final day of my campaign and I will not be reaching my goal, so it means even more to me that it was chosen in spite of that. I will be retooling and restarting my campaign early in 2017. The recognition you have given A Tale of Ghosts and Guardians will be a helpful part of that relaunch. Thank you all again, and I will be watching for your future picks with great excitement.


Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added almost 7 years ago
Ghosts and Guardians it is! Congrats to @Ryan Cook !
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added almost 7 years ago
Ghost and guardians :)
Photo apr 05  8 32 18 pm Zaide Williams · Author · added almost 7 years ago
Hi all!  You know, I think Ghosts and Guardians does fit the Snark theme best, so I’ll go with that.  And thank you!  Really psyched--definitely want to work with this designer again!  :)
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added almost 7 years ago
Hmmm... A Tale of Ghosts and Guardians seems more snarky. I think it fits the theme of this syndicate more. However, time is dwindling and not many sales. Our backing might go further with Catching Stars. (sorry my answer is kind of a non-answer)
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added almost 7 years ago
Hey guys,
I’ve been busy finishing up Seven Shards and forgot all about getting the discussion going here earlier in the month, so apologies for that! Since we only have a few days to decide, here’s a super short list to choose from:


Please stop in to place your votes :) 

p.s. Awesome new cover, Issa!

C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added almost 7 years ago
There ain’t no doctor that can cure my disease...

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added almost 7 years ago
Ha! 

It’s sounds like Bad Medicine takes the vote - I’ll make it official shortly :)
Photo apr 05  8 32 18 pm Zaide Williams · Author · added almost 7 years ago
I’m in for Bad Medicine!  And thanks, G.A.--that song will now be in my head for the next few days.
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added almost 7 years ago
@Rodney V. Smith @Sara @Issa Puppi - Do you have any opinions to add before we choose the October pick?
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added almost 7 years ago
I’m going with Bored as Hell
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added almost 7 years ago
I vote Bad Medicine...and not just because I love New Jersey and old school Bon Jovi. 
Photo apr 05  8 32 18 pm Zaide Williams · Author · added about 7 years ago
Thank you thank you thank you!  I truly appreciate the backing, all.   Just marvelous.  A quick note--if anyone would like to read the full manuscript, please feel free to DM me your e-mail address, and I’ll pop it on over.

Thank you again!  This is just great.
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 7 years ago
Alrighty, I’ve looked over all the feedback and mulled things over, and I’m going to go ahead and call it for Overture! Congratulations to @Issa Puppi !
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added about 7 years ago
hmmm... I find Overture to be more of an original idea. Something I had never thought of. I’d like to see that win.

With that said, Bad Medicine does sound like a riot. The whole drag-queen aspect sounds insanely fun.

As much as I like Bored as Hell, I think the above two might have a slight edge in worthiness, for my tastes.
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 7 years ago
If my math is correct,  Overture, Bad Medicine, and Bored as Hell are all tied with two votes.
Feel free to debate the pros and cons (politely, of course) and I’ll see if I can wrangle up some votes from former members/friends of the syndicate too. 
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added about 7 years ago
@C. Brennecke i shall pick Bored as Hell deserves some love :)
Photo apr 05  8 32 18 pm Zaide Williams · Author · added about 7 years ago
Hi all!  Thanks for the vote of confidence on Overture, G.A.!  And thank you for adding it to the mix, C.  Agree with the comment on Seventh Age as well--may be good to pick something still working to get to Quill.  That said, Bad Medicine looks pretty intriguing from a snark perspective, so I’ll go with that.
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 7 years ago
@Rodney V. Smith @Sara  @Issa Puppi  -  Do you have a vote? (the list is a few comments down)

@Joshua Griffith - Since two members have a nominated book, do you have a second pick? I’ll count both votes :)
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added about 7 years ago
Anybody else want to vote so I don’t feel all the pressure? :)

Overture and Bored As Hell have both caught my eye. My vote is with either of them.
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 7 years ago
@G. A. Finocchiaro Re: Backing Strategy -
Since this is a smaller syndicate, we don’t have the numbers to really push a campaign into Quill, although it’d be great to do that if the opportunity presents itself! 
Because of this, the value we bring to a selected project is usually as a bragging right that helps bring more attention over the longterm. Personally, I don’t see why those bragging rights can’t go both to funding and funded books alike. However, I completely understand if you want to focus your votes on funding books only. 
In any case, I would recommend voting for the book that you think is the best and/or the most SnarkyDarkSy-esque.
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added about 7 years ago
Wow...that’s a good list. I wish we could back all of these.

@C. Brennecke with The Seventh Age, do we want to go in on something that is already funded to full publishing? Also, should our goals be to help give that last bit of push to help one get closer to Quill? Or merely to pick whichever is our favorite, without concern of whether or not the books make it to Quill?

I really like Overture. Both Hell books look great too!

Also, we should definitely back Wine Bottles and Broomsticks if given a chance to. It still has 70 days left. Bad Medicine looks great too!


Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added about 7 years ago
Lol looks like another one of my novels has been thrown into ring so I’m going to be biased and vote for The Second Coming of Hell.

Though I will put it out there that I have the full manuscript uploaded just to stand out from the pack in the contest, but it hasn’t translated to many orders. If anyone does back The Second Coming of Hell, i will gift you an ebook copy of In a World of Darkness. Even that novel would meet the snarky darky guidelines. I’m not trying to sway votes for my novel, just reminding everyone that you get two books for your support.
There’s no shortage in great picks for this month! 
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added about 7 years ago
Lol looks like another one of my novels has been thrown into ring so I’m going to be biased and vote for The Second Coming of Hell.

Though I will put it out there that I have the full manuscript uploaded just to stand out from the pack in the contest, but it hasn’t translated to many orders. If anyone does back The Second Coming of Hell, i will gift you an ebook copy of In a World of Darkness. Even that novel would meet the snarky darky guidelines. I’m not trying to sway votes for my novel, just reminding everyone that you get two books for your support.
There’s no shortage in great picks for this month! 
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · edited about 7 years ago
Fair enough - there is quite a surplus to sort through right now! 

Without further ado, here are the nominations for August:

The Seventh Age: Dawn
This is a great book that comes out in November, and I think it would be cool if we could back it sometime between now and then so that we can read and review it as a group.

Bored as Hell: The Second War
This one makes me chuckle and definitely deserves some more attention.

I’m digging the unexpected mix of elements this one has, plus it’s really well written.

Another great, dark and snarky book that deserves some more attention.

The tagline alone cracks me up. I already bought a copy, but it’d be great to back it as a group too.

This one features old school-style witches in a modern day romp, and looks like lots of fun.
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added about 7 years ago
@C. Brennecke it’s probably less dark, and more straight fantasy. Admittedly, I haven’t been as active recently as I have been, and I’m not too familiar with the hundreds of entries into all these contests that are running right now. 
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 7 years ago
I’m putting together a list of nominations now. Can someone (@G. A. Finocchiaro or @Sara ) tell me if The Great Hand has any dark fantasy or paranormal elements? It definitely looks interesting and funny, but I’m not sure if it fits the Snarky DarkSy vibe. It might be that I’m just overlooking something though, so let me know!
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 7 years ago
Hey all, I’ve decided to post some guidelines since I’ve been receiving questions via DM on a fairly regular basis lately. Note that I’m not calling these "rules," since I’d rather have a more laid back approach in this group. 

Guidelines & How this works:
- Between the 1st and 15th of every month I will post nominations for the group to discuss. Votes will be taken to poll the group for their opinion. Generally I will go with the most popular choice, but I may opt to go with the runner up at my own discretion.

- If there are not enough votes, I will either choose the book myself or poll former members and/or other authors until a consensus is reached.

- Self-nominations are allowed via DM only. 

- Anyone can put forth a nomination, but if the book doesn’t fit into one of the genres listed at the top, it will be overlooked.

- You CAN vote for your own book IF you are the only syndicate member with a nominated book that month.


I think that covers it, but any questions, let me know!

C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added about 7 years ago
Here’s a book for us to keep in mind for next month: The Great Hand - https://www.inkshares.com/books/the-great-hand
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added about 7 years ago
Welcome aboard! If you have any questions about Inkshares or writing, please feel free to start a conversation. 
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 7 years ago
And another welcome aboard to @Issa Puppi ! Come on in and make yourself at home ;)

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 7 years ago
Welcome aboard, Sara! I’m glad we eased some of your worries :)
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 7 years ago
After much deliberation, and a few chuckles at the idea of a dog ripper, I’ve decided to select The Delicate Art of Soulripping as our August pick! Congratulations to @Sara Polk and welcome to the best bookshelf in all the land!
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added about 7 years ago
Bored as Hell is my preference, it kinda goes along the lines of my entry in the contest lol
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added about 7 years ago
Bored as Hell is my preference, it kinda goes along the lines of my entry in the contest lol
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 7 years ago
@Rodney V. Smith @Joshua Griffith Any preferences?
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added about 7 years ago
Great list! So, the top two on here are both already established Inkshares authors. I love both of their works, and Rick is a pretty good guy I’ve already chatted with several times.

However, with our number shrinking (where did they all go!?) and with the "little guy" in more need of our contributions, I’m leaning towards The Delicate Art of Soulripping and Overture. Those are my #1 and 2 votes (if I’m ranking them). Bored as Hell is my 3rd pick.

As I said, the other two entries are awesome, and I’ll be buying a copy from each, but I think we can make a better impact with the smaller guy, and maybe we can also recruit more to this syndicate as well by doing that.
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · edited about 7 years ago
Okay...the list is ready for narrowing. I decided to look at contest entrants only this time. Next month I’ll add in a few others, but we’ll focus on the contest right now since it’s so shiny and new.

Morose: A Comedy by Jim McDoniel
The end of the world is near. Just enough time for a newly laid off Death to get a life. Hopefully.


Seventh Age: Dystopia by Rick Heinz
Magic returns. Companies brand it. New abilities can be yours for one small payment ...just sign on the dotted line.


Bored as Hell: The Second War by Christopher Johnson
Lucifer starts a Second War with Heaven because he’s bored. Besides, what’s God going to do - send him to Hell?


Overture by Issa Puppi
Elma’s life, predictable as a sheet of music, is rewritten as she evolves from risk-adverse pianist to supernatural powerhouse. In a symphony of vampires, werewolves, evil and magic, Elma sings a pivotal song. Watch as she learns the tune.


The Delicate Art of Soulripping by Sara Polk
When you die your soul doesn’t just leave your body. There’s a process: ripping, reaping, replacing.



Let me know which one(s) you’re digging the most!
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 7 years ago
Thanks @G. A. Finocchiaro ! And I agree, that one will definitely appear on the list.
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added about 7 years ago
I stumbled upon The Delicate Art of Soul Ripping a little while ago. I think that might be a worthy nomination.  @C. Brennecke 
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added about 7 years ago
@C. Brennecke  - Sounds good! I have my eye on a few. 
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · edited about 7 years ago
Hey @Rodney V. Smith @G. A. Finocchiaro @Joshua Griffith !

Our February pick, The Vampire and the Dragon by @Michael Welch , is campaigning once again, so be sure to check that out and re-pre-order if you can!

Also, there are a LOT of new projects that fit our Snarky DarkSy vibe thanks to the new contest, so be sure to check out some of the options and start forming opinions. I’m going to post a nomination list in the next few days, and I’ll need your help to whittle it down. :)

Thanks! You’re awesome! Peace Out! XD
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added about 7 years ago
Congrats to @Rebekka S. Leber - Proxy is the Snarky DarkSy pick for July!
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 7 years ago
Thanks, guys! I published my reader update this morning and walked away from my computer. When I got back, I hit refresh and nearly fell out of my chair. I appreciate the support!!
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Congrats to @G. A. Finocchiaro ! The Knightmares is our June pick!
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 7 years ago
Whatever you guys decide is fine with me. 
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added over 7 years ago
sounds good to me
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
How about we go with The Knightmares this month and lock in Proxy for the next? 
Tal bio Tal M. Klein · Author · added over 7 years ago
2nd for Proxy
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added over 7 years ago
@C. Brennecke  my vote goes for The Knightmares because it sounds like my favorite kind of weird! ;)
 
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 7 years ago
I will respectfully not vote for my own project.  Proxy looks decent. 
Author photo bw Mike X Welch · Author · added over 7 years ago
I’d like to throw the suggestion of Proxy by Rebekka S Leber into the ring:  https://www.inkshares.com/books/proxy
It just started funding.

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
I’m looking at The Knightmares for our next pick. 

What does everyone think? Shall we debate a couple others or go all in?
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Hi Guys!
Hopefully by now you’ve all heard of Draftshares - a week long event highlighting projects in the Draft stage on Inkshares. (If not, check out the details on the forum: https://www.inkshares.com/forum_threads/dlc-and-inkshares-present-draftfest)

As a cross-promotion effort, I put together a list of recommended Drafts (with the artistic help of @Rebekka S. Leber  ). If you’re participating in the event, be sure to check them out!


Author photo bw Mike X Welch · Author · added over 7 years ago
Way off topic, but just had to leave the syndicate and re-join in order to change the credit card I’m using.  A tad annoying...RIP tenure.  ; )
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 7 years ago
Thanks @Tal M. Klein ! I am pretty sure I did see your post! Unfortunately I have nearly exhausted my entire list of friends and family with very poor results. However, I am going to follow up with many of them. I was just curious about other avenues. Promotion is a full time job, and I am in position to start putting even more of an effort behind my project. 
Tal bio Tal M. Klein · Author · added over 7 years ago
Hey there @G. A. Finocchiaro! I wrote a (possibly too) verbose post on the forums about this very topic: https://www.inkshares.com/forum_threads/how-i-got-to-250-orders-in-10-days

I have done a lot of promo work on Facebook, Goodreads, Twitter, and conducted an untold number of interviews on various sites and blogs. All together these generated in the neighborhood of 25-30% of my pre-orders. Ultimately the thing that will move the needle is direct, personal content with prospects. It’s uncomfortable. It makes one feel like a door to door salesman, but that’s the stuff that really works. I’ll do a more comprehensive analysis after the G&S contest is over tomorrow, but I think Facebook is probably the most influential non-direct channel, followed closely by Reddit. There are no shortcuts, unfortunately, so for every community whose readership you want to recruit to your cause, you’ll have to invest several hours of interactions. You should expect something like 10% or less engagement, which is not bad, but honestly:

NOTHING is as good as your personal network. You friends on Facebook, your peers on LinkedIn, your redditors on... well, you get the drift. Hope this helps.
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 7 years ago
Hey guys... I was curious if anyone would mind sharing some of the ways they were able to promote their book? Any recommended sites or anything? 
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added over 7 years ago
@Jeremy Thomas yep and if others you refer and order my book, then you can more chances during the rest of my campaign but they have to tell me who it was that sent them my way. :)
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added over 7 years ago
I’m going to add everyone’s name to my $25 Amazon gift card raffle which my levels of entries are as follows: 

Zombies (E-book) = 1 entry!
Brain-Eaters (Paperback) = 2 entries!
Super Horde (Super Reader) = 5 entries!

@Jeremy Thomas @Rodney V. Smith @Tal M. Klein @C. Brennecke @Michael Welch @G. A. Finocchiaro  Since this was a syndicate backed preorder, I’m giving each of you the Super Horde tier, which will be 5 entries each! @Jeremy Thomas you already ordered a copy before this happened so know that you will have 6 entries total! :) This is my way of showing that I appreciate this and want to give something back. My raffle will happen when I hit the 25 preorder mark so help me get the word out and get more orders and you can get your name added from the referrals as long as your friends and followers tell me it was you who referred them my way. :)


Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added over 7 years ago
I’m grateful and truly appreciative for this nomination, it means a lot to me that you each believe that it’s worthy of the "Snark" branding. I wasn’t expecting a landslide that’s for sure. it’s a badge of honor that Rob the Zombie and I will proudly wear! :)
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Well that was quick and easy! Congratulations to @Joshua Griffith !
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 7 years ago
Agreed! "The Decaying Destiny..." sounds like the best of the two options. 
Author photo bw Mike X Welch · Author · added over 7 years ago
Yeah, Tal pretty much took the words right out of my mouth - Tolkien-lite, with nary a hint of snark.  Viva Rob and Senor Griffith.

Tal bio Tal M. Klein · Author · added over 7 years ago
Not sure I see so much "snark" in The Northern Divide, even though it is a great book and I’ve supported it. Therefore, I think Decaying Destiny of Rob the Zombie would be a better fit thematically for the Syndicate.
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added over 7 years ago
Well I’m keeping my word and voting for Decaying Destiny of Rob the Zombie. I was happy to see God in the shed get our nomination but now I selfishly vote for my story ;)
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago

Alright, it’s time to talk about our next selection! There are two projects that I’m really excited about, and I’m hoping that we can back both of them during the next few months. They are:

&

If anyone has other suggestions, feel free to toss them into the ring too. 

Thanks, and May the Fourth be with you :)

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Aha! Welcome back to the dark side, @Joshua Griffith !
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added over 7 years ago
@C. Brennecke  Muhahaha! I’m back! :)

Author photo bw Mike X Welch · Author · added over 7 years ago
Welcome aboard, G.A. Finocchiaro!

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Nice - That makes you, @Elayna Mae Darcy , and me all from Philly. We should start a club!
C84a9735 G. A. Finocchiaro · Author · added over 7 years ago
@C. Brennecke Yes! I am! I’m in Old City, but originally from Jersey. 
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Hey @G. A. Finocchiaro , welcome aboard! 

I was just looking at your book and was wondering - Are you from the Philadelphia area too? 
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
ha! Sounds like you have some snarky friends ;)
Tal bio Tal M. Klein · Author · added over 7 years ago
Can we rename this Syndicate to Snarky McSnarkface?
(asking for a friend)
Author photo bw Mike X Welch · Author · added over 7 years ago
Welcome Tal!

Tal bio Tal M. Klein · Author · added over 7 years ago
May the snark be with me.
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Hey @Tal Klein ! Welcome to the group!
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Congratulations to @JF Dubeau ! We have chosen A God in the Shed as our April selection! 

Thanks to everyone for your input :) 
Picture Rodney V. Smith · Author · added over 7 years ago
 A God in the Shed sounds intense.

Author photo bw Mike X Welch · Author · added over 7 years ago
 God in the Shed

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Alright, it’s time to make our April selection! I’ve narrowed my list down to three, and I’d like your help narrowing it down to one. (attn: @Rodney V. Smith @Jeremy Thomas @Michael Welch )

A God in the Shed - a horror-fantasy novel that’s pushing for full funding with only 11 days left

The Northern Divide - an epic dark fantasy novel that has gone woefully unnoticed thus far

The Decaying Destiny of Rob the Zombie - a zombie humor novel by none other than our former (and future) member, Joshua Griffith


P.S. @Joshua Griffith feel free to weight in too, I don’t mind if you vote for yourself. Also, @Richard Heinz if you feel like meandering over, now would be a great time - even just to place a vote :)
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Hey guys! (@Rodney V. Smith @Jeremy Thomas @Joshua Griffith @Michael Welch )

I’m going to be super-crazy-busy during all of April, so if anyone has suggestions for the April pick, go ahead and start sharing them now. Thanks!

:)
Bwsq Rochelle Germano · Reader · added over 7 years ago
You are the best! Ahhhhh!
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
It’s official! SnarkyDarkSy has chosen Witches Undercover as its March selection! Congratulations to @Rochelle Germano ! 
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added over 7 years ago
Witches undercover is my pick
Author photo bw Mike X Welch · Author · added over 7 years ago
My vote thus far is ’Witches Undercover’ by Rochelle Germano.

I would say that anything on Inkshares should be eligible for us to vote on, funded and funding, personally.

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · edited over 7 years ago
Apparently it’s March. I’m not sure how or why, but days go by without my consent, I guess.

Anyways, the arrival of March means it’s time to discuss our March picks! Here’s my shortlist. Feel free to add to it - - we have a couple weeks to chat it all out. I’m certain we will pick the very best one, just as we always do! ;)

A God in the Shed by JF Dubeau

Lucifer and the Exorcism of Jamia Wilson by Taylor Dunn

God’s Evil by JS Carter Gilson

Witches Undercover by Rochelle Germano


I’d also like to get everyone’s thoughts on the idea of adding funded books to our selections in the future. A lot of the projects I’ve had my eye on are starting to turn back into drafts, so I’m just thinking ahead to scenarios where we might have a difficult time finding books that fit our niche. On the pro side, we’d be able to actually receive books - and on the con side, they might be books that we’ve already purchased individually. Let me know what you think.
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added over 7 years ago
welcome to our snarky world @Michael Welch 

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Happy to have you, @Michael Welch ! And A+ for the 10 Things reference :)

Picture Rodney V. Smith · Author · added over 7 years ago
Long live the snark indeed!

Author photo bw Mike X Welch · Author · added over 7 years ago
I’m more than just whelmed.....I’m overwhelmed by the generosity of the collective which my book seems to have been created strictly for!  Thanks guys, I really appreciate it! To show you guys just how much, I’ve joined the syndicate.  Long live the snark!
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
With a wonderful mix of humor, intrigue, and fantasy, The Vampire and the Dragon is SnarkyDarkSy’s February pick. Congratulations to @Michael Welch !
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Sweet! Looks like we have a consensus. I’ll make an official announcement after the deed is done.
Picture Rodney V. Smith · Author · added over 7 years ago
The Vampire and the Dragon for me!

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Right now I’m waffling between The Vampire and the Dragon and Witches Undercover. I think both fit the snarky-dark theme well and they’ve both received votes. Witches Undercover received several of votes from outside the syndicate, and The Vampire and the Dragon received 1 1/2 votes (the half being from my split vote) from inside the syndicate. I’ll give it another day or two to see if @Rodney V. Smith has a preference, and then I’ll call it. Either way, I’m going to buy a copy of each :)
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added over 7 years ago
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · edited over 7 years ago
Hey all (@Jeremy Thomas @Joshua Griffith @Rodney V. Smith)!

It’s time to chat about our February candidates. I’ve put a list together below. Feel free to add more and share your various thoughts. On to the picks:


Con Plague by Samantha Jessome

Witches Undercover by Rochelle Germano


Captain by Artie Sievers


Let the games, er, debate begin!


Picture Rodney V. Smith · Author · added over 7 years ago
Ahh people are awake!  Thanks for the welcome fellow Syndicate members.  Now I understand there was a plan afoot to take over the world?  (or at least  one tiny corner of Inkshares)

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Welcome aboard, @Rodney V. Smith
Picture Rodney V. Smith · Author · added over 7 years ago
Hey I’m up late doing anything BUT writing and that includes poking around Inkshares, so I saw this and just HAD to join.  Definitely a niche group, the snarky-darky fantasy humour, so not surprised there are less of us.  More glad that we do exist.
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · added over 7 years ago
Welcome Rodney and thanks for joining us!
Picture Rodney V. Smith · Author · added over 7 years ago
HI! And now we are 4!

Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
It sounds like we're all leaning in the same direction :)
Thank you both for your input! I think this will make the selection process much easier going forward. Being on the same page, and knowing you're on the same page, is nice.
Picture Joshua Griffith · Author · edited over 7 years ago
I can see that it would be difficult to make a real impact with our low numbers but no matter who we choose, the authors do get that much needed recognition. there are too many good stories getting lost because they may not have the glitter and splash that others can afford to do. I'm for help the lesser known authors, ones that have a longer funding period, have their special moment in the spotlight because getting endorsed by any one the many Syndicates will get the attention of others. I maybe missing the point of the whole Syndicate thing, but this sounds like the way for us to go and hopefully our numbers will grow. I feel this way because our group seems like one of the lesser known and puts us in an underdog position but that's okay because we will make an impact and our voices will be heard by our picks. okay, rant over. :)
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · edited over 7 years ago
(cross-posted on the Goodreads forum)

Suggestions for the February selection are welcome! 
(I'll post a few next week, but I'd like to hear from others first)


Also - I'd like to get some opinions on what approach this Syndicate should take when selecting a book. 

We are too few in number to make a big impact, so I'm not sure if we should take the "push it up to/over the edge" approach that the bigger Syndicates are using. But maybe we should. I don't know, which is why I'm asking. :)

Perhaps instead could use our vote to give visibility and bragging rights to a project that has a longer funding period ahead of it?

Or choose books that are already publishing, so that we know we'll get a copy?

Or simply choose the best book based on merit alone, all other factors be damned? (and will we be able to reach a consensus on that?)


All thoughts are welcome, member or not! 
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Sorry for the late reply, but you're welcome @Patrick Sheane Duncan ! We're hoping you hit the full funding goal!
11261250 large Patrick Sheane Duncan · Author · added over 7 years ago
Much appreciate the selection of my book. Cheers!
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
Congratulations to Dracula v. Hitler! You're our January 2016 pick!
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added over 7 years ago
It's early-mid January, and that means it's time to choose our next book! Please stop in over on Goodreads (https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/17972302-january-2016-selection) and share your thoughts!

Thanks!
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · edited almost 8 years ago
You may have heard about tomorrow's Review-a-Thon!
(If not, read up by clicking here)

To help you choose a great Dark Fantasy (or simply snarky) read, we've put together a Top Ten list of currently funding projects here on Inkshares. Whether you're reviewing tomorrow or not, I encourage you to check them all out!


  1. The Devil You Know by Alan Tucker  https://www.inkshares.com/projects/the-devil-you-know?recommended=true

  2. So You Might Be a Vampire by Rodney V. Smith  https://www.inkshares.com/projects/so-you-might-be-a-vampire

  3. Toasted Fiction: A Collection of Very Short Stories (That Nobody Asked For) by Christopher Patrick  https://www.inkshares.com/projects/toasted-fiction-a-collection-of-very-short-stories

  4. Mortimer by Robert Hughes  https://www.inkshares.com/projects/mortimer

  5. Morning Star by Rowan Cruikshank  https://www.inkshares.com/projects/morning-star

  6. Everyone’s Gone to the Rapture by Robert Hughes  https://www.inkshares.com/projects/everyone-s-gone-to-the-rapture

  7. Getting Buried in Vegas by Stephanie Bryant  https://www.inkshares.com/projects/getting-buried-in-vegas

  8. Blood Trade by Austin Bouse  https://www.inkshares.com/projects/blood-trade

  9. Carnival by Anita Reyes  https://www.inkshares.com/projects/carnival

  10. Witches Undercover by Rochelle Germano https://www.inkshares.com/projects/witches-undercover?recommended=true


Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added almost 8 years ago
The Devil You Know has been chosen as our first selection! Congratulations to Alan Tucker!
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added almost 8 years ago
Hi Jeremy!

Thank you for asking such an excellent question!
The top three I have my eye on for December are:

So You Might Be a Vampire by Rodney V. Smith
https://www.inkshares.com/projects/so-you-might-be-a-vampire

An Unattractive Vampire by Jim McDoniel
https://www.inkshares.com/projects/an-unattractive-vampire-4284

The Devil You Know by Alan Tucker
https://www.inkshares.com/projects/the-devil-you-know


I'd like to invite you to weigh in or suggest others here: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/17866420-december-2015-selection

(and that goes to any lurkers out there too!)


Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added almost 8 years ago
We now have a Goodreads group! Come join the discussion: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/list_group/177912-snarky-dark-fantasy-syndicate
Dsc 4986 1 C. Brennecke · Author · added almost 8 years ago
A little bit about Syndicates, straight from the Inkshares FAQ:

What is a "Syndicate"?

A syndicate is a group of people who pool their money together to support a different Inkshares book each month. The advantage of a syndicate is that it allows readers to more passively support Inkshares writers. Syndicate leads do most of the work.

It is inspired by the syndicate structure on AngelList. Members can come in at the "electron" level for $10 per month, or the "atom" level for $20 per month. The syndicate lead then works with members to choose a book to support on the 15th of each month*. Orders are then placed on behalf of each member. Electrons receive an ebook. Atoms receive a print-book. This can result in big savings for syndicate members, as often ebooks and print-books are more expensive than $10 and $20, respectively.

Books are delivered when the project funds or publishes, or immediately if the project is already published.


* January, 2016 will be the first month