Thriller Night Syndicate

Joni Dee · Author · added about 7 years ago

We still get charged. They will issue credits if no books are selected but no refunds

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 7 years ago

My understanding is that if a book isn’t selected, we get $10 in credits instead for the $10 we put in. I don’t know this for sure, though. I think we’d have to check with one of the syndicates that have done that before. We’ve already been charged for February’s selection, so we could also just wait and see what happens this month.

That said, yeah, the mystery selection seems slim to the point of non-existent right now. I don’t know that the syndicate is able right now to do what it’s supposed to do. If we do get the credits, we could let a month or two go by in hopes that things pick up again. Presumably we’ll still have projects we can spend the credits on, just not necessarily mystery/thriller/crime/horror.

Alastair Luft · Author · added about 7 years ago

Do we need to actually dissolve the Syndicate or can we let months go by when a book isn’t selected?

Joni Dee · Author · added about 7 years ago

Guys - I’m suggesting to dissolve the Syndicate, there aren’t enough thrillers going on here. I’d hate to give the company a monthly 100$ that goes to waste on not-produced books. Any thoughts?

Joni Dee · Author · edited over 7 years ago

Right, since @Christopher Huang and me were the only votes, I actually like this suggestion. @Jacqui Castle ’s book just started the campaign and I accept that giving her the boost she needs to get this futuristic thriller underway is a great idea.

This is my first undemocratic act, and I promise not to go down a slippery slope towards tyranny :) All the authors that were nominated this month will be up for vote on February. Hopefully you will make the effort to present your books over the Goodreads discussion group. Also, hopefully people won’t be overwhelmed from the new year and will come back to vote by the masses.

Congrats to Jacqui! thanks Chris for the suggestion.

Christopher Huang · Author · added over 7 years ago

Maybe for next month, but how about @Jacqui Castle ’s "The Walls Are Closing In"?

Joni Dee · Author · edited over 7 years ago

@William Harms @E. S. Dahl you’re welcome to pitch your work on the Poll’s coemments... invite through this link: https://www.goodreads.com/group/invite/193017-thriller-night?invite_key=28efc659d315f2dc35c0081cb75f01d267704343&utm_medium=email&utm_source=copypastegroup

Joni Dee · Author · edited over 7 years ago

Okay folks... I have searched all through Inkshares and have found no actuall thriller that can make it to production (most strangly ends today).

Without better options (please do not get offended guys - It is a Mystery/Thriller Syndicate afterall), here are a few books that may interest you that can somehow scrape the genre. Please vote here by Saturday midday (pacific time).

1) Let Us Alone Trust in God by @William Harms - A post Civil War vengance story.

2) The Lion & The Dead by @E. S. Dahl -another Civil War inspired, this time, ghost story.

3) Again A Wildreness of Comfort by @Dan Levinson - with 6 days to run, this book probably won’t reach the target but it’s a solid thriller that deserves our attention for a second try.

Please vote HERE guys

Thanks !!

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

Guys, nominations for Jan pick? I can’t find much ...

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

Congrats to @Scott Thomas - who sadly is the only author who didn’t present his book in the group page. Nonetheless a vote is a vote - well done !

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

Well,

a few anonymous Nominees this months whose campaigns are not exactlyy ’kicking’

A Wildrness of Comfort @Dan Levinson

American Art Killers by @AndrewOye

Kill Creek by @Scott Thomas (for the horror slot).

Authors are welcome to state your case here: Goodreads

Poll is up until Tuesday midnight - in this link - because I woke up a bit late this month...

please vote.

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

I liked @Dan Levinson A wilderness of Comfort, but uncertain if this campaign is alive and kicking. also finding hardcovers campaign die fast...

As for Shady place - it’s still funding and an eligible nominee.

Christopher Huang · Author · added over 7 years ago

Looks like "Shady Place" has had its campaign cancelled. Anyone have any other nominations?

Christopher Huang · Author · added over 7 years ago

For the December book pick, I’d like to nominate @david byrne’s "Shady Place". A detective and a mobster, both retired and now living in a seniors’ community, have to work together to prevent a murder.

Christopher Huang · Author · added over 7 years ago

Hi guys. Just wanted to point out that if you haven’t spent them already, each of you should have $4.01 in credits this month, thanks to Manifesto being estimated at $5.99. Sooooo ... not saying you should back my book with those credits, but if you haven’t, I hope you’ll at least consider it! Gotta maintain my place on The List!

Daniel Poort · Author · added over 7 years ago

Thank you guys so much for picking Manifesto! I appreciate the support. You guys rock.

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

So with 5 eligible votes - Manifesto is the winner - congrats To @Daniel Poort !

Guys, do check out the other contenders, they are all worthy of support and will await your re-nomination.

Thanks all!

William Schiele · Author · added over 7 years ago

Joni,

Thanks for the reminder. I cast my vote for Daniel Poort’s Manifesto: A Tale of Murder. I found the premise intriguing and the story is captivating. Thank you.

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

At the moment - while removing the ineligible voters:

Daniel Poort’s Manifesto: A Tale of Murder is leading with 4 votes

and Byron Gillian’s The Darkets Places is a strong second with 3 votes.

Please cast your vote by midnight ET today! calling @William Schiele @James Rasile & @Ryan Smith and yes even @Thad Woodman = that have yet to ever voted ;)

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

We do our best... there aren’t many thrillers on Inkshares to begin with (even as an extended category that stretches to SciFi thrillers and horror etc) but we try to at least nominate if not to back the gems we see ;-)

Anyways, 11 votes don’t make or break a campaign, but the goodreads group has 51 members and thus at least people get some exposure!

Daniel Poort · Author · added over 7 years ago

Glad to be here! I’m hoping that the syndicate will be a good way to find books up my alley.

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

Guys, at the moment the score is 2:2 as (Byron/Poort) and not 3:3 as showing, as we have some ineligible votes:

@Rick Heinz , Daisy & Paula -

you need to join the syndicate on inkshares to have your vote count - sorry (but it’s only fair) :-)

You may however try to convince others here to vote for your choice.

Also a warm welcome to @Daniel Poort for joining us. Yes you can vote for youself if u wish to ;-)

Joni Dee · Author · edited over 7 years ago

Right, not much of a discussion here lately but here are our nominees for November (a voting poll is online today on the goodreads group) and will end Friday 11 Nov midnight - Eastern time.

1) Daniel Poort’s Manifesto: A Tale of Murder @Daniel Poort

2) Nicholas E. Efstathiou’s Cross, Massachusetts: @Nicholas E. Efstathiou

3) Byron Gillian’s The Darkets Places @Byron Gillan

4) Aram’s King’s Cross: Mergers and the Acquisition of Secrets @Aram

That’s 5 whole days to get familiarized with these books and cast your vote. here’s is the Poll’s link. Thanks!!

Alastair Luft · Author · added over 7 years ago

Hi, and thanks for the welcome!

Christopher Huang · Author · added over 7 years ago

My vote for November is Daniel Poort’s "Manifesto".

And hello, Alastair. Welcome to the syndicate.

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

Delighted to welcome @Alastair Luft to our syndicate.

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

Hey guys - any early thoughts about who to look up for November?

Still hoping we can recruit some new members here to push above 10 members again ... any ideas?

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

they’re dropping out like flies - with AJ @Anthony Jones III leaving too... can u guys start recruiting memebers? we each need to bring one person! :-)

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

I’ve taken the liberty after a brief discussion (to which Chris was the only side) to pick Joseph Parcell’s BLUE WATER as our Oct Pick.

A core suspense psychological thriller which we need to encourage - and the 2nd place last month - @Joseph Parcell congrats! you earned it! why don’t u join us ;-)

Joni Dee · Author · edited over 7 years ago

Joseph wrote:

"So close! Congrats Mark. Thank you guys for the nomination. I’m currently 44 away from Quill, and I could really use your help if you’re willing to give me another shot. "

It’s no secret i was for Joseph’s book, I am more than happy to waive off the vote, as there aren’t many thrillers funding at the moment - and give Blue Water our pick. Any seconds?

Christopher Huang · Author · added over 7 years ago

We’ll keep "Blue Water" in mind for September, of course. "Cross, Massachusetts" is also still there. For new stuff, there’s "Manifesto", by @Daniel Poort .

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

Well the good news is that i misinterpreted Peter and he will be back when the dust settles.

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

So sadly Peter Ryan has broken contact with Inkshares due to the credit cancellations that’s been effecting us all.
, he feels (prob rightfully) that this should not be occurring... especially without due notice first. I have expressed my own concerns to Inkshares and will not do anything drastic on my end, but trying my best to help them.

Meanwhile we lost a major member of this syndicate, and I hope all of you guys are in to stay.

Let’s wish Peter thanks and good luck - and please let me know your September nominees ? I have no found many thrillers/mysteries this month.

Peter Ryan · Author · added over 7 years ago

Here’s to a conscious uncoupling! Enjoy!

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

off topic - but if u can spare an order - @Regina McMenomy, Ph.D. needs less than 40 to reach Quill to her excellent book in just about two weeks. help her out please.

Joni Dee · Author · edited over 7 years ago

@Peter Ryan though I personally voted for @Joseph Parcell - democracy is the way to go. Plus Mark has a great book - he just needs to start pushing people.

Peter Ryan · Author · added over 7 years ago

Nice one, JD! I’m hoping this one makes it. Congrats @Mark Meredith! Thanks @Christopher Huang!

Joni Dee · Author · edited over 7 years ago

Congrats to @Mark Meredith for winning 4-3
Link to the poll results to see how everyone who voted, voted.

@Christopher Huang thanks again for handling this month’s vote mate.

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

@Anthony Jones III @William Schiele @James Rasile Last chance to vote guys, I wanna pull the trigger tomorrow. thanks!

Darcy Conroy · Author · added over 7 years ago

I’ve voted for Upload by @Mark Meredith simply because it’s the one that I am most keen to finish reading. I’m really glad to have had my attention brought to it - that’s exactly why I joined the syndicate!

Christopher Huang · Author · added over 7 years ago

It is 01 September, and you may have noticed that the subscription fee has been taken out from your respective accounts. So it’s time to vote ... I’ve set up the Goodreads poll, here.

@Joni Dee , note that you’ve still got to be the one to actually make the syndicate pick once the votes are in.

Peter Ryan · Author · added over 7 years ago

Yep, a big fan of Upload. It gets straight in there and keeps on going.

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

Thanks for dealing with the Sep syndicate pick Chris, I am off on business till the end of the week, and will pop in to vote. @Mike Donald I had an email exchange with Elena, they are deleting many orders that have been generated by credits used by the multiple-credit-generating-per-same-project bug, if u remember this around March-April, so many orders and books are affected.

This to say, if anyone sees orders missing from me (I deliberately asked Elena to look into credit on my account too, so no one can blame me for any malintent) - please don’t hesitate to let me know and I will re-order.

Mike Donald · Author · added over 7 years ago

I think UPLOAD is a great concept, and for once grabs u straight from the start...something a lot of books fail to do...which unless you are Patterson or Lee Child you really could do with. I haven’t posted much recently as I remain baffled by the whole Inkshares scene at the moment. Just trying to keep track of orders that vanish from my total keeps me occupied...pretty soon anybody that has a publishing deal based on numbers pre-ordered could be back in draft mode! Are we meant to sell more as our total drops or ignore it?

Christopher Huang · Author · added over 7 years ago

We’re open for discussion for the September pick over on the Goodreads forum. The projects we’re considering, so far, are:
1) Blue Water, @Joseph Parcell
2) Cross, Massachusetts, @Nicholas E. Efstathiou
3) Upload, @Mark Meredith

Christopher Huang · Author · added over 7 years ago

A good deal of it does, though I get the impression that the forums here have been picking up speed over the past few months.

Darcy Conroy · Author · added over 7 years ago

Thank you for the welcome, @Joni Dee Very happy to be on board! Apologies if I’m a bit slow in responding, I’m still working the site out. Am I right in thinking most of the ’action’ happens on Goodreads?

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

Yes u have - sorry!

Nathan Mills · Author · added over 7 years ago

I voted several days ago on the Goodreads page, did it not show up?

Peter Ryan · Author · added over 7 years ago

Nice one, Evan! Well done!

Debbi Mack · Reader · added over 7 years ago

Thanks , @Joni Dee! Happy to be aboard! :)

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

Join me in a warm welcome also to @Darcy Conroy - 2nd thriller author to have joined us this month after @Debbi Mack ... Welcome aboard good to have u with us!

Mike Donald · Author · added over 7 years ago

I thought I’d already voted on Goodreads...but have now hit the official pole for 7 Days Dead.

Joni Dee · Author · edited over 7 years ago

@Nathan Mills @Mike Donald @Peter Ryan @Ryan Smith @James Rasile - guys please vote on the goodreads poll page or by DM’ing me.

Joni Dee · Author · edited over 7 years ago

author @Debbi Mack welcome aboard! check her profile on goodreads gang!

Joni Dee · Author · edited over 7 years ago

the Poll is now active - please vote on goodreads!

Joni Dee · Author · edited over 7 years ago

@Nathan Mills yes sir that is correct.

Nathan Mills · Author · added over 7 years ago

Thanks for the reminder. I’ve reviewed the nominees you listed and I believe I have my pick. Did I read one of your comments correctly--the actual poll will be on Goodreads? Will there be a link to it on Friday? Thanks!

Anthony Jones III · Author · added over 7 years ago

Sure thing. I’ll save it for then xD.

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

thanks @Anthony Jones III but let’s hold off on the votes for now... aiming to start the vote on Friday. would prefer u vote on the actual poll on goodreads :-)

Anthony Jones III · Author · added over 7 years ago

Good nominations! My vote goes to @Evan Graham Tantalus Depths. I’ve been following it quite a while and have ordered before some time ago, but he does a great job with the thriller element and worked up to reach his goal. With the amount of days he has left, we could pinch in and potentially build some momentum. So, that’s my vote.

Joni Dee · Author · edited over 7 years ago

My Nominations for this month’s backing, are as followed:

@Evan Graham Tantalus Depths - a spectacular thriller element SciFi, kind of reminds me of Michael Chrichton’s Sphere. also nominated by Peter Ryan.

@johnsoncm Seven Days Dead , i know Zombie books aren’t (and maybe shouldn’t) be in our genre, but this is just so gripping i had to raise it for a vote.

@Joseph Parcell Blue Water - a psychological thriller which caught my eye. half way to Quill.

@G. A. Finocchiaro the Knightmares - still havent given up hope and as the runner up last month deserves another shot.

the criteria for me is:

(1) is it a thriller or has thriller elements (as we can’t be choosers when the majority of Inkshares’ books are still SciFi/Fantasy)
(2) IS the author working hard enough to reach his goal?

(3) Can we make a difference with our 10 votes and get someone closer to goal.

@Nathan Mills now taking more nominations, aiming to start the vote on friday 5th throughout the weekend. Thanks!

All authors are invited to make their case on our Goodreads group

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

He is one of the three nominees I have in mind Peter... I definitely think that there’s enough thriller element there... Great minds...

Peter Ryan · Author · added over 7 years ago

And speaking of @Evan Graham, Joni Dee, there’s enough ’thriller’ in Tantalus Depths to qualify for consideration here, yes? I know I’m supporting Evan elsewhere, but it’s a case of every little bit helps in getting him over the line.

Joni Dee · Author · edited over 7 years ago

@Nathan Mills there aren’t any nominations yet. i will post my list of projects to get acquainted with i think only next week (i am not home this weekend). meanwhile please feel free to raise nominees guys.

Nathan Mills · Author · added over 7 years ago

I want to make sure I don’t miss out on anything for August. Are there some books I should review before voting? Thanks!

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

Good luck - let me know if u need anything... and I’d change that name :)

Anthony Jones III · Author · added over 7 years ago

@Joni Dee Funding is slow at the moment, but I’ve been doing a lot of work in the background by spreading my campaign through family members and friends, so I’m expecting a jump of orders soon. As for Lisa Elohim...I literally made up the name from scratch. Mainly Elohim because it ties in with her background. Also, I’d appreciate support in any way guys!

Joni Dee · Author · added over 7 years ago

@A. J. III how’s funding going? I think best way to start and gain momentum is not in Twitter or not even inkshares but to show family members and close friends have order. than when u are 30-40 orders start hassling the Inkshares community.

Can i also inquire as to "Lisa Elohim" ? Where did u get the name? ver unlikely as the word means God in Hebrew, and can come across offensive .. i’d suggest looking into it?

Sorry if this is not the forum, and you rather me DMing u preivetly -just say. but i want to make other members here aware of your book. Guys, A.J’s book is too early in the campaign to be considered for syndicate backing now, but please support him if you have any credits... we help out own! thanks!!

Anthony Jones III · Author · added almost 8 years ago

I’ve finally kicked off my pre-ordering campaign! You guys can check it out if you’re interested in a story dealing with gifted detectives trying to bring down criminals with similar talents.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Not to worry Nathan. Next month.

Nathan Mills · Author · added almost 8 years ago

oh, no. I missed the vote. This was my first month with the syndicate, so I’m not sure how this worked. I kept thinking that I’ll see some notification, but nothing came up. So then I wondered about and came here and now realized that all this communication had been going on back and forth. Sorry guys. I will check here more often for the next vote. But, I would have gone with Goodbye, Angel if I had voted.

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

A very worthy choice. Keep working it Rob. This book needs to be out there.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Congrats to "A Bedlamite in Shadow" - good luck reaching Quill Rob!!

Peter - I try to be a good chief whip ;-P

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Respect, JD! You hit 750 and you’re still cracking the whip!

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Guys please vote, deadline today and only 5 members voted

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Many thanks @Mike Donald @Christopher Huang - i couldn’t have done it without u guys!

Christopher Huang · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Congratulations, Joni. I’m impressed.

Mike Donald · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Awesome man! Mega congrats...

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Thanks Peter - I couldn’t have done it without you guys. x x

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Our own Joni Dee is over the 750 - awesome work buddy!!

Christopher Huang · Author · added almost 8 years ago

I can’t deciiiiiiiiide...!

Anthony Jones III · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Same here

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Done dude!

Joni Dee · Author · edited almost 8 years ago

Please vote for July’s book on goodreads (or by DMing me).

Joni Dee · Author · edited almost 8 years ago

@A. J. III don’t worry AJ, Participate when poss. Also please join the Goodreads group - i will conduct the voting there in a few days and give the nominated authors @G. A. Finocchiaro @Rebekka S. Leber @Ryan Smith and @RF Martin a chance to introduce their books.

I’ve learn firsthand that when people don’t know your book they become over protective when they think that it’s inappropriate to their genre/taste. In essence, I am copying @Janna Grace ’s fantastic Break the Bechdel system, i think it’s a good way of bringing exposure to the books, to the genre & to Inkshares. Especially given the fact that there are members there who are not on inkshares.

so guys, please join us there and if u have any other nominations - now is the time.

Anthony Jones III · Author · added almost 8 years ago

I apologize for not responding earlier, I had college orientation and other responsibilities, but I’ve been leaning towards R. F. Martin’s book, Pixilate Obsidian Roses, and G. A. Finocchiaro’s the Nightmares

Mike Donald · Author · added almost 8 years ago

I’ve just joined the other group.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

you can suggest any book that you want my dear friend. can u join us for the goodreads group? and thanks for the compliment, i had a few good people working very hard.

Mike Donald · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Hi Joni, could I suggest PROXY?

https://www.inkshares.com/books/proxy

not sci-fi, and reads well and is quirky. And while I remember, congrats on the amount of books you’ve shifted while my back was turned. Awesome work, I’m here if you need help over the line. Cheers Mike

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

guys, please join here

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Thanks Peter but i’ll post a poll on Goodreads page once everyone joins it, At the moment seeking more nominations... my third book was "the Nightmares" by G. A. Finocchiaro .. Detective Stories is for following purposes.

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Tending towards R F Martin’s book, though Goodbye, Angel is also worth a look. I don’t think Dective Stories is funding yet, JD.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

I also opened a group on Goodreads, much like Ganna’s Break the Bechdel Syndicate for purpose of elaborated discussions and polls .. so please join here

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Guys, i refer u to my least of nominees below. Anyone else wants to suggest books for our July pick?

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@F.T. Faith come back to us! :D

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Add to my to follow list Detective Stories by our own A.J. the third @A. J. III ... i’m so excited that the genre is picking up here on Inkshares!

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Thanks for the choices JD and welcome Nathan. I’m currently sitting in an airport waiting to get on a plane - there’s no thrill in that!

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@Nathan Mills great to see you with us Nathan! welcome!

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Some interesting choices to review for our July pick guys, take time to get familiarized with them and feel free to suggest more :
the Nightmares by @G. A. Finocchiaro
Goodbye, Angel by @Ryan Smith

and I think worth keeping an eye to the final campaign efforts of @RF Martin for Pixilate Obsidian Roses

please no votes yet - just nominations.

Also, not funding yet, but please keep an eye out for:
The Third attempt and Peace Before Destruction by @Nathan Mills

The Pieces that fell by @T. S. Sgrignuoli

and The Long Game by @David Howard

thoughts?

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

gunpoint it is already my friends, and my wife’s actually considering divorce at this point i think...

William Schiele · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Joni, 2/3rds of the way! The final third at gunpoint if necessary.

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Haha JD! Scan those numbers!

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

plus i am practically taking colleagues’ credit card off their wallet and placing their order for them ... lol

Joni Dee · Author · edited almost 8 years ago

thanks brother! i’m getting tailwind from James, Evan, my aunt and my mom’s friends lately... fingers crossed!

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Joni Dee! Was that the sound of you passing 500. Nice!

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@The.Sixth. Great to have you here!

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

We’re thrilled that you joined mate! and good luck with your draft!

Anthony Jones III · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Hey, everyone. I’m the new guy here! Thanks for having me, Joni.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

pleasure James and thanks for joining. I think the Sixth will also join us... soon back to 10 members (our prime i think) !

James Rasile · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Hi all! Thank you so much for making Cape’s Side your pick for the month! It means a lot to me and I hope you all enjoy it!

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Thanks guys. So unanimously I’m proud to go and select my dear friend @James Rasile ’s Cape’s Side Bay as our June selection. well done!

Christopher Huang · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Sure, I’m agreeable with "Cape’s Side Bay".

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

James on this one if I’m not too late!

Joni Dee · Author · edited almost 8 years ago

"My Vote goes to Cape Side Bay, due to mobile issues with accessing the syndicate i’m using u as a conduit. My second choice would be Upload, but that is more sci-fi than csb...cheers mike" my latest DM received.

this makes it our vote, but out of respect i will wait for @Christopher Huang ’s input before i push the button.

William Schiele · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Thanks for the nudge Joni. I vote for James Rasile’s Cape Side Bay.

Thank you.

Joni Dee · Author · edited almost 8 years ago

Gents - June is upon us. We have two votes to @James Rasile ’s Cape’s Side Bay and no other voices/nominations. @Christopher Huang @Ryan Smith @William Schiele @Mike Donald can i have your suggestions or firm votes for June please?

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

and now @RF Martin is gone :( we are losing folks

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Haha!! Totally!

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

lol did we post it at the same time?? great minds!

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

PS @Joni Dee Thanks for the extra pre-order, brother!! Alberta thanks you!

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

I just bought my own Jackolite physical copy, no credits used. all very clean, I want this Canadian to get his donation carry out its mark :)

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@Joni Dee @James Rasile With you on this one JD. I’ll look around but he’s vote 1 for me this month.

Joni Dee · Author · edited almost 8 years ago

For May - i want to Raise @James Rasile Cape’s Side Bay. It is no secret that I am actively helping him with it, and even though listed as SciFi it has an amazing thriller suspense element to it..

Besides, he’s a great guy, and I always like to support these.

This is just a single nomination. I am looking for other nominees as well please.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

btw - anyone can tell me why @Thad Woodman is now a horse? LOL

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

thank very much you sir - i am 40 below my optimal which is also quite discouraging but i’m pushing like hell / i already came to terms with no syndicate with big numbers (CEO essentially) ever choosing me, lol - so i m nagging hoping suddenly something happens...

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@Joni Dee I’ll see what I can do, my man! Keep working it!

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@Peter Ryan thanks brother,, anything really.. i m scraping it now.. James & Brian actively trying to get me orders as I don’t have anymore people... a bookstore that sounded interested completely went 180 on me the other day, leaving me gutted.

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Nice one on hitting 400, JD! Let me know how I can help you reach the big one!

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

They wanted each Syndicate lead to nominate draft they’ll promote. I decided it’s your show just as much as it’s mine.

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Ok I guess I understand. But can a syndicate support a draft? We can’t pre-order drafts on the Inkshares platform so what does the draftfest mean practically speaking from a syndicate viewpoint? Or is this something else entirely?

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

yup thanks Chris, i missed that bit :P

Christopher Huang · Author · edited almost 8 years ago

Draftfest: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/18104422-draftfest-may-30--june-5

The point is to support drafts that aren’t funding yet. Much as I like "Upload", it’s already funding and therefore doesn’t qualify.

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

What RF asked. Can we support a draft as it’s not funding?

____ · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Sorry if this is a dumb question. But, what is draft fast?

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Okay,

i’m recommending for DRAFT FAST the following novels:

1) A Cup for the Dead, by @Faith

2) BRUGES BLOOD - A Chandler Travis and Duke Lanoix mystery. by @Mike Donald

3) The Long Game- @David Howard

4) Off the Grid - @Brad Leclerc

5) Bad Italian Wine- @D.R. Ransdell

Mike, sorry bu t i really liked Mike Donald’s SciFi thriller, and though UPLOAD looks promising, i think there’s only room for one SciFi themed, in the spirit of conveying our syndicate’s true genre.

Cheers all! thanks for the help.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Yeah, shame she disappeared, I’d love to see it printed...

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Faith’s book looks great. I love the mystery/Egyptian combo.

Mike Donald · Author · added almost 8 years ago

I was impressed by UPLOAD by Mark Meredith, and A cup for the dead by Faith, will post anymore as I think of them. Thanks for the thought of Bruges Blood...there’s a space in the canal for you :)

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Thanks Chris ! I can’t find the book I liked, possibly it went into funding or off the system.. Brain... Not... Functioning!

How did I leave Faith behind!?

Anyone else wants to raise a few?

Christopher Huang · Author · edited almost 8 years ago

On my radar right now:

1) A Cup for the Dead, by Faith

2) Off the Grid, by Brad Leclerc

3) Bad Italian Wine, by D.R. Ransdell

4) Shaw’s Testament, by Edward Bloodworth

*5) Gumshoe, by Ian Walls

*6) Impala, by Andrew Diamond

* - The last two might not count. "Impala" is just a title up there with no excerpt to look at, but things might change between now and the opening of Draftfest. And "Gumshoe" is billed as hard science-fiction: the protagonist is a robot.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Guys, I need to select 5 projects I’m draft mode for Draft Fast. I have two in mind one is Mike’s new book the other I will lookup the name later, was a mystery I liked. Can u float your selections ?

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Guys, I need to select 5 projects I’m draft mode for Draft Fast. I have two in mind one is Mike’s new book the other I will lookup the name later, was a mystery I liked. Can u float your selections ?

Joni Dee · Author · edited almost 8 years ago

Guys, I need to select 5 projects That are in draft mode for Draft Fast. I have two in mind one is Mike’s new book the other I will lookup the name later, was a mystery I liked. Can u float your selections ?

Mike Donald · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Well done man! Mega congrats :)

Ryan Smith · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Congratulations, @Christopher Huang ! Awesome news!

Christopher Huang · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Thank you. I am still in my corner grinning like an idiot. Next stop: 750.

Joni Dee · Author · edited almost 8 years ago

congrats @Christopher Huang !!

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Our man Christopher has hit the 250. Well done, mate!

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

sadly @Faith had to pull from the Syndicate. she had emailed me beforehand. hopefully she’ll return to us soon. thanks Faith!

Christopher Huang · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Thanks, everyone. One of these days I will figure out how to accept honours gracefully, but for now I shall just sit here grinning like an idiot.

____ · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Sorry to chime in late. But, I support Chris as well.

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Well done, Christopher! Thoroughly deserved.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Okay, @Christopher Huang gets Mike’s, Faith, Will, Ryan & Ryan’s vote. which is enough to pick "Murder at the Veterans Club" as our May choice!!
TBH, I thought it would be better farther along the road (as he has almost a year of funding) but i think it’s an excellent choice. and i am happy for our emblem to be on his page.

Congrats Chris and keep up the good work!

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Christopher for me.

Ryan Smith · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@William Schiele -- I’m really impressed with "Murder at the Veteran’s Club" as well. I think @Christopher Huang would be a great choice!

William Schiele · Author · added almost 8 years ago

My fellow thriller writers. I feel like a shadow lurking on the edge these days, but I have to catch up on things I should have been doing during my push for Quill. I really wish I had more time for Inkshares. Anyway, I appreciate the kind words and the positive support for Tears of the Assassin. I would like to pull my book from consideration since I will be working with the Quill package and have no hope for 750. I would like to support and vote for Christopher Huang’s Murder at the Veteran’s Club. In my opinion the book fits the genre’ purpose of this syndicate, the sample chapters are entertaining and Chris impresses me as one hell of a nice guy with a lot of patience. Our support will bring him closer to Quill, he will not fail to publish. Please join me in supporting Chris.

reader · Reader · added almost 8 years ago

@William Schiele would suggest you but you’ve already hit Quill, congrats! :-)

reader · Reader · edited almost 8 years ago

My suggestion for a nominee would be @Christopher Huang since his is a pure mystery, it is close to Quill and he’s been a supporter of others’ books. Also @RF Martin sounds like a good story, although may want to wait for the next round to get closer.

____ · Author · added almost 8 years ago

However you are led to help will of course be appreciated!

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Let me know if I can help in any way. I want the book! ;)

____ · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@Joni Dee No, I don’t know 250 people. So, I’ve been joining Facebook Groups; Direct messaging folks on Twitter; Spending a few hundred bucks to advertise on websites; Bugging other Inkshares members.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@RF Martin not easy, my wife’s about to divorce me.. But I have been juggling through multiple strategies, the direct approach is the best, question is do you know 250 people? Without social media here there’s no way.

What’s your nominees/votes please?

____ · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@Joni Dee No offense taken. Been spending all my free time bugging folks. Not having as much success as you all, however. Got a few more over the weekend. About 3 out of 100 nags.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

We can go for @RF Martin though Rob needs to say if he’s committed to pushing harder for Quill, I don’t want another fail backing - no offense Rob, I’d love to see u published, lord knows I did my best to help, but it takes nagging/salesmanship from the author we can’t just wrote and rest sadly!

I suggested @Zack Budryk Judith in the past, but he has reached his goal so I don’t know if u are up for it.

@Brian Fitzpatrick Mechcraft is solid, but more SciFi than a thriller.

@Christopher Huang @Mike Donald @William Schiele - would love to hear your vote/nominees

Ryan Smith · Author · added almost 8 years ago

I was looking around myself and Peter’s right, there’s not much out there in the pure mystery/thriller genre right now. How about William, as Peter suggested?

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

I write sci-fi and you’re right about that. I would prefer a pure thriller but aside from the folks in the syndicate I don’t see much of it around. From what I’ve read of Christopher’s writing he’d be a worthy addition.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

both worthy, both great guys - but i hate supporting scifi - there’s enough around here for that....

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

James Rasile’s Cape’s Side Bay also looks like a good read. Bu again, does it qualify?

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Brian Fitzpatrick’s Mechcraft is a ’fast-paced sci-fi thriller’. I’ve exchanged a few emails with Brian. He’s a good bloke. He also recently hit the reset button on his funding and is serious about reaching his goal. Does it qualify? I still don’t mind if William gets the nomination - he worked hard to get where he is.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@William Schiele thanks for proposing my book Bill, but i think a syndicate cannot vote for the lead’s book - sadly :-( ...

Any other names to suggest for May? @Ryan Smith book is excellent but too early in the funding stages to be considered (plus he just joined it will look bad).

any other suggestions?

Ryan Smith · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@Peter Ryan -- Thanks so much! I appreciate the order, and the kind words!

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Many Ryans make light work! And speaking of the more recently arrived Ryan, go check out Goodbye, Angel - it’s an absolute gem. I just grabbed a pre-order and would encourage you to do the same.

Mike Donald · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Thanks all for the congrats...welcome to the group Ryan, the world can’t have too many Ryans :)

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@Ryan Smith Good to see you here, Ryan.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@Ryan Smith Very glad u decided to join us Ryan! welcome aboard

Ryan Smith · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Hi, all, just joined. Glad to see a mystery and thriller syndicate up and running. I’m new to Inkshares, but I’ve already noticed it seems very heavily slanted toward scifi/fantasy. Not that there’s anything wring with that -- good books are good books, regardless of genre. But I must admit I have a soft spot for a good mystery, so I’m glad this syndicate exists to support those!

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

we need to keep on the hustle... u guys out of your campaign now have the energy - do not rest on the rose beds! ;-)

@Mike Donald congrats Michael (here too) !!

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Jolly good, Mike and thoroughly deserved. Now to get Christopher and RF over the line and we’ll have a tremendously Quill heavy syndicate. How’s that for a syndicate recruiting drive idea @Joni Dee ?

Christopher Huang · Author · added almost 8 years ago

You did it, Mike. Cheers!

Mike Donald · Author · added almost 8 years ago

And just to be even more self serving than I already am...why can’t we instigate a contest that focusses on our particular genre? There seem to be a lot of Sci-Fi based contests, I’m sure INKSHARES can hook up with an outside organisation in the same way as they do on the Nerdist comp. Maybe give the top three a full publishing deal? Just putting it out there:)

Mike Donald · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Just like to thank all you guys and gals for the tremendous wave of support that has rippled out across the Inkshares universe, I really appreciate it and the fact that I have reached 240 pre-orders is a testament to the power of the network. On the subject of members leaving...I don’t think there is a problem with members joining the group as a support mechanism while they are getting funded...it acts as a momentum generator and a place to exchange views as well as a cash injection...as long as fresh members join then it will function as a more intellectual version of a Ponzi scheme, it is probably up to peoples financial and temporal position as to how long they can be involved. I have found the membership beneficial, and will support the group as long as I have funds and the time to contribute in a meaningful way. Now I will have to make time to see which book I should plan on voting for :)

____ · Author · edited almost 8 years ago

I just got the notification of William’s comment and realized I never cancelled my membership after announcing my departure. Guess I’m supposed to stick round for a bit longer. With that said, can we back Mike book a second time to push him over? Be a shame to not hit Quill by only 11 orders.

William Schiele · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Thriller Syndicate Colleagues,

I regret not having more time to spend on Inkshares. Unfortunately I, like I imagine all of you, have other obligations which draw me away from this vibrant community. I am dismayed at the departure of Michelle Blain and RF Martin. I always hope for the growth of our group and it’s unfortunate to see it contract.

I’m flattered by the nomination of my book to be considered for selection in May. I appreciate the vote of confidence represented by your willingness to consider Tears of the Assassin as worthy of the Syndicate’s support.

Louisiana Blood is currently only 11 orders away for making Quill and there are only 11 days left in the campaign. I know we would all like to see this gripping tale of the world’s most famous serial killer seeking refuge in the bayous of the Mississippi delta cross the line for publication. Let’s push Mike’s book over the line of success.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@RF Martin would hate to lose u as a member Rob, but of course do what’s best for you. good luck!

____ · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Hey everyone. Unfortunately, I’m going to have to back out of the syndicate for a little bit. Funds are tight right now and what I have I need to use to push my project before my funding date expires. Hopefully, I’ll be back soon. Keep in touch, though.

Christopher Huang · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Wicketness will be punished.

I vote "Tears of the Assassin" on the grounds that I have already personally backed "Judith" but not "Tears".

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@Peter Ryan who remembers mate ... third base? LOL def not a wicket !!! ;-)

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@Joni Dee You’re a good man JD!! And what do you do for a second date?

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@Peter Ryan mentioned Mike in my last update, opened a thread for him in goodreads & recruited @John Robin to help! we’ll get him over the finish line!!!

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Bill’s got my backing. And don’t forget to give Mike’s book a shout out when you can. He’s getting close to Quill and the days are ticking down.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

Sadly our ranks are diminishing with @Michelle Blain canceling her membership. Bye Michelle and thanks for being with us for a brief while.

Joni Dee · Author · edited almost 8 years ago

Folks, starting the May Short least, I am raising Tears of the Assassin by our very own Bill & again Judith by Zack Budryk

Would love to hear more suggestions, again this is not yet the time for voting please.

Peter Ryan · Author · added almost 8 years ago

A good idea. Direct personal messages work best for me. Let me think who I can ask.

Joni Dee · Author · added almost 8 years ago

@Christopher Huang @William Schiele @Peter Ryan hey guys, we come across many people when we campaign. Can we try to recruit some people to join us.. i’d like to see 15-20 memebers here.. any ideas?

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@RF Martin do u have black bags for eyes, a toddler and a baby? maybe i am!

____ · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Joni Dee Good times, huh? You sure you aren’t my doppleganger?

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@RF Martin Rob! I’m sleeping 3-4 hours of not consecutive sleep, changing nappies. and on my spare hours bugging strangers on forums to buy my book.. not much glory here!

____ · Author · added about 8 years ago

Hey everyone. My email has been blowing up with messages from the syndicate and I wanted to pop in and say hi. Sorry I haven’t been to active--life has been busy. Hope you are all well. Judging by the success some of you are having, it looks as if that is the case!

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

I have ~3 months. Let’s join efforts for Mike’s sake. Also guys please check @Tabi Card Scribbles. let’s help her out as well !

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

Brilliant stuff William! Now we need to get Mike and Joni Dee over the border.

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

Limey congrats for racing over the Quill border with all guns blazing :)

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

CONGRATS to @William Schiele for making it to QUILL... next step 750!!

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

I’m confident Mike will be our first success. May is still a ways off but Tears of the Assassin will have probably made Quill by then. I’m thinking your book Joni.

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

I am hoping to redress that balance and produce a bestseller to put the syndicate on the map :)

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

2/3 failed backings.. great track record for our syndicate :-/

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Thanks Chris. one of the most wretched chapters in my book for some reason, kept editing it over and over again... hitting your inbox now! many thanks.

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

I’m willing to have a pass through it. My email should be on your dashboard.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Guys I uploaded chapter 4 of my book, it’s longer than the others and probably full with errors - had a friend who used to be a professional editor proofread, but i don’t think he did a very thorough job.. If anyone has the time to go over it for me, would appreciate and can send you it as word - i know you’re all super-busy with your projects, so no sweat if you can’t.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

will clean it up at home using photoshop later today

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

okay set it up for now till other members will suggest their views. can always change.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

LOL Mike, u just killed me

Mike Donald · Reader · added about 8 years ago

My vote goes with the JC coin...and if we can photoshop G Clooneys face on there we’re done :)

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

I like it. It’s distinctive; it commemorates a famous assassination; and even if you don’t know the significance, the daggers on the design relate to our theme.

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

I concur ... both to the liking it and the waiting.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Thanks. Will wait to hear more suggestions, but i like it :-)

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

Nice, mate!

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

yeah i stand corrected 30 pieces of silver

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Eid Mar Roman Coin? commemorating the gang & Brutus murdering Caesar

or too plain looking?

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

30 pieces of silver I thought but I’m far from a biblical scholar!

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

peter, were they not gold coins?

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

regardless to the emblem, but please let’s not stop the discussion.

Technical issues re credits:
we have all been reimbursed 5$ for the February syndicate selection. so if Hesse’s book’s eminently fail we have essentially got our money back for Feb/Mar as credits 6.99$ Transcillience + 7.99$ Equipement +5$ credit =20$.

hopefully our third pick is going to publish so we needn’t bother with this again now that the bug is fixed asnd 10$ credit will be allocated going forward for syndicate pick.

(thanks @Jeremy Thomas and @Christopher Huang for their help on the matter)

I have emailed Inkshares privately to get reimbursed for Sarah Bryant’s "the One Unspoken" so if you haven’t seen anything back on that (or any book that was bought with credit) i urge you to chase Elena/Thad - the guys are extremely affable and helpful. @Elena Stofle

now let’s discuss the emblem some more :)

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

Silver coin yes - it has the Judas betrayal thing going for it.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

on a silver coin? or no coin?

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

A bloody dagger - or too obvious?

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Hey folks, the syndicate badge can now be edited from the Roman Coin so something else... I would think that staying with the coin motif can be nice. Any suggestions or volunteers to create/find us a new one?

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

Thanks Joni Dee! I’ve had a lot of good people behind me, especially those from this Syndicate.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Peter Ryan Congrats on QUILL Peter!

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

Nice one Mike! Go sharpen your sword! Or pen. Whichever works best.

Mike Donald · Author · edited about 8 years ago

Thanks guys and gals...yes, I do my best to battle the Grelims that prowl the digital halls of the Inkshares kingdom...their scaly talons will not drag me down...my next crusade will be to destroy the black heart of the Dark Knight who calls himself...ALGO RITHM...only then can I rise to the heady heights of STAFF PICK!

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

Mike, Congratulations! I’m very impressed with your persistent and innovative methods of promoting Louisiana Blood. Acknowledgment from the Thriller Syndicate is much deserved and demonstrative of how dazzled we are with your writing. Keep it up Sir!

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

Thank you all for your support! I will be putting out a press release shortly...so those of you that have just sprung for my book needn’t feel obliged. I will do my best to get this over the line and into the best sellers list in 2017! Thank you for your backing...third time lucky :)

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

BOOM! congrats @Mike Donald for being the Crime Syndicate’s choice for April.

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

Good call! 👍🏻

Michelle Blain · Author · added about 8 years ago

I whole heartedly support that decision! Louisiana Blood!

____ · Author · added about 8 years ago

I support that decision.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

With April drawing near i have 5 votes for Louisiana Blood (Mine, Peter’s, Bill’s, Mike’s & Chris’). would love to get @RF Martin @Faith @Thaddeus Woodman @Michelle Blain votes for the record, but it looks like democratically, this will be our April support in any event.

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Hesse Caplinger I look forward to your return with fresh produce in your vegetable cart. Edit, revise and return, Writers just keep writing. Inkshares and the this syndicate will be here for you.

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Hesse Caplinger sorry to hear that...you do know you could get an extension and re-appraise your marketing strategy?

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Hesse Caplinger sorry to see you go Hesse,

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

I’m sorry, @Hesse Caplinger . You will be missed. I hope you’ll still stick around for a bit: the madness must surely be more amusing when you’ve come out of it.

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

For April I vote for supporting Louisiana Blood. Mike’s book is in so many ways a thriller that it richly deserves our support.

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

"Louisiana Blood".

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

I’d go for Louisiana Blood for April - epic conspiracy thriller! Checks all my boxes.

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

@Zack Budryk yes sir, you have to join the Syndicate in order to receive voting rights. we would love to see you join.

Zack Budryk · Author · added about 8 years ago

So I have a couple of questions: is voting restricted to dues-paying members, and either way, does voting take place on here? Thanks!

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Happy Easter all!

The short list for April will be as I suggested (as no one else suggested anyone else)

1) Louisiana Blood / @Mike Donald

2) Judith / @Zack Budryk

3) Tears of the Assassin / @William Schiele

Can I please get everyone’s vote in the coming week with a deadline of 5th April.

Thanks!!

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Thaddeus Woodman all good, we were just horsing around Thad. There bound to be hiccups.

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

Does that mean that 100 emails will pop up in peoples folders telling them they have direct mail? Or will all the little bells flag up numbers...or will nothing happen at all except from now on?

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

I knew it...like Kim Kardashian’s derriere my 100 direct emails broke the internet :) It’ll be a pleasant surprise when in 2021 all those people buy my book :)

Thad Woodman · Inksharesian · added about 8 years ago

Hi @Joni Dee & @Mike Donald – we had a little system hiccup today:

https://www.inkshares.com/forum_threads/system-hiccup

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Lol. Was wondering why start a new system right before a break?!

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

Thanks Joni, I got an email with your message in it....but no number on the bell. Poor Thaddeus will have to cancel Easter at this rate :)

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Nope didn’t get the bell nor the Email this time :(

@Thaddeus Woodman FYI for after Easter...

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

Yes Bill...maybe, but they might start to pile in now. I just sent one to Joni...he can let me know if he gets an email and a number on his bell:)

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

Thanks for the post Mike. I think I’m in the same position having sent out numerous pitch e-mails yesterday. I did get back 2 responses who generously placed orders but it seems that the shelf life of the impact of all those e-mails may be shorter and less intense than I had imagined. Enjoy the rest of your Easter.

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

I think the little Bell symbol is now working on incoming direct mail...so hopefully that should sort things out...I just think it took a bit of time to link everything up...so fingers crossed little sticky fingers all over the world will now be clicking on their little bell symbols to discover my words of wisdom :)

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

I get an email whenever I see a DM. Happy Easter. Spent it on the river with the kids, staring at the SIS building wondering if I need to revise my description of it (in an unpublished chapter) :D lol

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

If they (Thaddeus) can put a simple counter on people’s sites that tells them how many messages are in their mailboxes they might be intrigued enough to look into them. Other than that I may just have wasted 6 hours of Easter :) Certainly can’t resend all those messages.

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

Turns out the Tsunami was just some of the 500 odd people I followed returning the favour :)

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

I’m not sure....I sent a direct communique to myself and that generated an email to myself at 18:12 GMT...and another one from a contact after that...I have spent all day pitching to people (about 100) and those were the only responses...which means around 98 direct mails are sitting in people’s in boxes...unless Thaddeus can re-engineer some sort of retrospective alert, I guess I’m at the mercy of all those people having a look at their inboxes...could be months :) Great eh?

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

Mike, Did the "sort out" effect e-mails you previously sent or did you have to re-send them under the new "sorted out" conditions?

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

Thaddeus just sorted it...now I have Tsunami of responses :)

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

I’ve been using the new direct contact system all afternoon, and have asked Thaddeus to look into having some sort of ALERT to let people know they have a direct message in their folder. At the moment you would only know if u used the drop down menu and clicked on the DIRECT MESSAGE tab. No not many people are going to randomly check their folder unless they are expecting something. I know this to be true as I have sent a zillion messages out today and not had so much as a flicker of a response...that never happens to this degree. I will let you know if anything happens. Have great Easter weekend :)

Zack Budryk · Author · added about 8 years ago

Late to the party but thank you SO much for the nomination!

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

I know I’m early Joni Dee but I had another hunt around this morning for potential Thriller Night candidates. Other options have few pre-orders with relatively short funding periods. The best possibilities look like they are within the syndicate. I’d still go for Mike, then William with RF Martin/Christopher later on due to their longer funding periods. But I can be persuaded otherwise if I missed someone.

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

Good to see you here, Michelle!

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

Welcome to the fray Michelle...:)

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

just got a pre-order from @Kris Calvin who is incidently is working on a new novel... very excited. :P

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Michelle Blain Hi Michelle welcome aboard!

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

Hey, I see a new face in the ranks ... @Michelle Blain , hello and welcome!

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

Use your words, Joni! I’ve had a solid look at what’s available in the thriller/mystery/crime genre (lurking within the space opera/fantasy/science fiction stuff) and most of the good ones are written by this syndicate’s membership. Especially now that Christopher has jumped into the funding pool. I love the idea of supporting outside authors but I can seem to find that many.

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

lol. there i go - being misunderstood all over again.

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

I’ll get my coat :)

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

Guys there’s some confusion, as the lead I feel compelled to look up a few options. Wasn’t my intention to start the voting process, but of course you can vote whenever. Officially I’ll ask the members choice for backing on April 1st onwards.

The end of the month, for me, is the time to create a short list. Other members who wish to vote for someone else are of course free to do so. Also suggesting names for the short list is welcomed, if nothing else, at least so we get introduced to new novels.

Mike Donald · Reader · added about 8 years ago

Thanks for the vote of confidence from the syndicate, i will repay you all by getting over the line!

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

@William Schiele Quality stuff Bill!

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

Thanks for the suggestion of supporting Tears of the Assassin. This month though I vote for the syndicate supporting Louisiana Blood. I love Mike’s book and we should help it succeed. Thanks.

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

I’m with @Peter Ryan on this one.

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

Greeting all. I’m a big fan of both Mike and William. In my perfect world I’d nominate Mike’s Louisiana Blood this month and boost William’s Tears of the Assassin next month when he gets closer to the funding deadline. I may be thinking too far ahead but getting Mike running now gives him a better shot at Quill in the long run. And I think we have sufficient collective juice to get William over the line next month if he doesn’t get there under his own steam. Too complicated?

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

We can actually start the nomination process for April, we all need time to think things through i guess.. I am going to nominate Louisiana Blood by @Mike Donald , among the active members who are funding, he has only 44 days left and i want to see this book published!!

Since we can still do it also next month i would also like to nominate Judith by @Zack Budryk , it’s been getting wall to wall compliments around here, would be nice to have a book that broke Quill finally.

Will also add tot he list Tears of the Assassin which i like immensely by @William Schiele

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Toward the End of the month suggestions, then early days of April we vote

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

When do we start the voting process for Aprils book pick?

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

I am getting a fair amount of new buyers, but NO ONE is getting credits. I, amongst others will be speaking to a Mr Thomas :)

____ · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Christopher Huang was kind enough to get things going. As I mentioned the forum, I think we should broaden the genre to: crime/mystery/suspense/thriller-horror.

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

@Christopher Huang @RF Martin I like the idea. Personally I know a short story I write will not be as good as my novel, but as long as there are a couple gems then mine can be decent filler. I’m in, I think crime/mystery/suspense should all be included. I’m willing to bully my artist friend into making a cover and I can do project management to help make it happen. I’d say whoever is interested, how about we use a GoodReads group or an Inkshares forum topic to brainstorm? That way we can leave the syndicate airwaves open for syndicate stuff.

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

(mumble)It’s not just the $10 credit; it’s really more the practice of "I’ll buy yours if you’ll buy mine". But I’m tired now and I’ll take whatever I can get....

Deep, calming breath.

So! @RF Martin ’s idea! I think that’s a very good idea, actually. I think, though, that we should go with completed short stories rather than with excerpts, because no-one wants to buy a book full of advertisements. A Crime/Mystery themed anthology would do us all some good, too. I can check my store of Peterkin shorts and find something suitable.

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

So you are worried that too many $10 credits will leave INKSHARES underfunded when they come to publish a book? If that’s your rationale then fair enough. The sooner they balance out the real market reader to writer ratio then the less likely that will be to happen. But I take your point. Now I have to get back to pitching to complete strangers :)

Christopher Huang · Author · edited about 8 years ago

All right. For myself, the way I’ve always received referral credits has been through a double-message system: first an email telling me about the referral, like this:

Christopher,

[Name] clicked a link you shared and ordered [Other Name]’s [Book] on Inkshares. Keep on sharing and help turn this book into a best-seller!

And THEN a second email, with a button to claim my credits:

Christopher,

You’ve earned $10.00 in new credits on Inkshares! This money can be used to purchase any of our books. Make sure you claim each credit so you can put it to use. Here’s why we thought we’d throw some money your way...

And like I said, that second email has been known to end up tossed into the spam folder.

I wish people would stop accusing me of approaching this from a holier-than-thou moral standpoint. Morals have nothing to do with it. I’m trying to tell people that they are in danger of sinking the boat. I’m not so rigid that I’m going to denounce every trader as a pariah. In my very first post on the subject, I actually said that trading WILL happen and that we can’t police it. I think that every campaign is going to have a little bit of trading in it, and that’s fine as long as it’s the exception and not the rule.

And I explain and I explain and I explain until my fingers are numb from typing variations on the same explanation over and over again, but somehow people never see why I think blind pre-order trading is dangerous. They only see that I object, and they assume, apparently without reading my explanation at all, that this objection must be the result of some sort of lawful-or-bust compulsion. It’s bloody frustrating. And because I’m repeating the same point ad nauseum, I’m pushed further and further into an extreme position with every reiteration.

You think I’ll have a new perspective when I’m in your shoes? Maybe. But has anyone tried putting themselves in Inkshares’ shoes and looking at the situation from there? Really looking, taking into account their finances and economics and everything? Don’t you think that if I’m able to do that, I should be more than capable of putting myself in the shoes of someone who’s currently funding?

I have personal friends who are funding. I read their updates, I talk to them outside of Inkshares, and I care about their campaigns. SO YES I HAVE A PRETTY GOOD IDEA WHAT IT’S LIKE.

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

There would seem no point in having a function on your dashboard that shows your referrals if it’s being claimed it’s a bug. Which ever way you spin it, for the system to cause such confusion of morality and reality is a failing...the system was only explained to me by other authors after I’d been on the site for a month. I don’t think there is any doubt that while the site was expanding it’s user base no one really gave a thought about what was right or wrong...but now it has momentum everybody is suddenly whiter than white.

I think you will have a whole new perspective once you start your campaign. I also think a lot of authors (Gary Whitta excluded.) who are recently funded would not have made it if it wasn’t for the original $10 sign up credit, and the referral system that has just been...MENDED! This subject is now dead to me and I will continue my campaign feeling so much better that I have less support to help sell books than I had a few days ago.

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

No, that was my heading. Below is the messages I used to get.

Mike,

You’ve earned $10.00 in new credits on Inkshares! This money can be used to purchase any of our books. Make sure you claim each credit so you can put it to use. Here’s why we thought we’d throw some money your way:

AmountWhy?Expires$10.00You referred PURCHASER who purchasedLOUISIANA BLOOD - A Chandler Travis and Duke Lanoix mystery.

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Mike Donald

Were the words "No credits" actually on the email that the author received, or is that a title that you’re putting on the whole thing? I ask because everything that follows is exactly normal, and has happened to me before. I got the email saying "[Name] clicked a link etc.", and nothing else. The credits are actually given in a separate email, and that second email had been sent by my ever-vigilant email provider to the spam heap. I had to actually go to the mail server itself to retrieve it and claim my credits.

Mike Donald · Author · edited about 8 years ago

Attn: Christopher. The author got this: SEE BELOW

No credits

Mike Donald clicked a link you shared and ordered BOOK TITLE on Inkshares. Keep on sharing and help turn this book into a best-seller!

I GOT THIS: Mike,

We’ve got you down as a Reader of BOOK TITLE We’re processing your order now, and if a funding goal isn’t met by Jul 11, 2016, we’ll issue a refund the next business day.

As a reminder, you’ll be getting: An ebook, access to drafts and updates from the author.

Order Date:March 15, 2016 at 6:00pmAmount Charged:$10.00

Inkshares has also gave NAME a $10.00 credit because you were referred by that person.

BUT THE AUTHOR OBVIOUSLY DIDN’T GET ANY CREDIT. So, despite what you may or may not hear...the site is buggy as hell.

____ · Author · added about 8 years ago

This may be a stupid idea, so I won’t be offended if you all say it is. But, what about some kind of Inkshares Anthology? It could be short excerpts from current projects, or even better, short stories by Inkshares writers across the spectrum of genres. Since there is a bunch of authors, funding for such a thing should take no time all. It gives the authors exposure and helps Inkshares as a company. Just a thought. Admittedly, I’m just a writer and have no concept of how the business side of things is done.

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Joni Dee , I remember not getting any credits for a referral once ... it turned out that my email provider had decided (after letting a couple go by) that these "you’ve got credits" emails were spam and shipped the last one over to the spam folder. I had to go and change the settings to always allow mail from inkshares.com to come through.

@Mike Donald , I don’t know that I’m a fan ... more that I’m willing to consider how things ought to work under the new rules. I was never a fan of pure, blind pre-order trading to begin with, having been impressed early on that a) Inkshares is very young and not making a profit yet, and b) proceeds from pre-orders do not cover the whole of production costs, meaning that c) every book that makes it past the pre-order stage is going to cost the company money unless it later sells well.

As for your issues with the new system, perhaps you could clarify? When you say you got an email from a new referral, do you mean that the person you referred emailed you, or do you mean that Inkshares emailed you about this person? Why is Inkshares sending credits to the person who was referred, when it’s supposed to be to the person doing the referring? When you say the author got an email with no credits, what exactly do you mean, and is this author a different person from the person referring (ie, the person associated with the referral code)? If both the author and the person associated with the referral code are not you, then do you mean that they emailed you saying that they received notice of credits due ("someone you referred....") but never got the "you’ve got credits" email, in which case, have they checked their spam folder?

Mike Donald · Reader · edited about 8 years ago

@Jeremy Thomas

Apart from Christopher i’m struggling to see fans of this new system...i got an email from a new refferal saying Inkshares had sent them $10 but the author got an email with no credits? My thought for the day is "better the bug you know...." These helpful roll outs can’t come fast enough. I haven’t had a positive response from anybody that is funding at the moment.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Jeremy Thomas at the moment it seems like the Credit system is not active at all, I have referred someone to a new project and got no credits at all. also some old credits were erased. could Inkshares look into it please?

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

@Jeremy Thomas Awesome, so glad to hear that you are focusing on attracting more readers. I want my book to fail funding because it’s not the best it can be, not because there aren’t enough readers of my genre. I also hope part of the roll out includes an easier path to get readers for my book to simply buy my book, and that you leverage emails/etc. to encourage them to look at other projects. BTW I think the mystery genre is a vertical with sustained growth (i.e., most readers love series and look for a long-term relationship with a series), so putting in a shameless pitch for you to consider this vertical soon.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

will ask again - in the future not here please. thanks.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Christopher Huang Prefer if we don’t publish our book external websites here. there’s enough space in the book pages for self promotion. thanks. regardless, glad u support Hesse though i fear it is a bit too late..

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

I look forwards to your author friendly roll out. And I’m sure your algorithms will show you the drop in activity compared to pre credit bug :) Feel free to share that with us...writers like nothing better than to be proved wrong :)

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

Actually, I see the "one set of credits per referral" system as more beneficial to Inkshares than "unlimited credits per referral", because it encourages writers to promote other people’s books to their audiences.

With "one set of credits per referral", a writer now has to successfully promote 10 books in order to get 100 credits. Now, all of a sudden, your writer friend is no longer a single person with a single pre-order to put on your book: your writer friend represents a whole audience of people who might be interested in your book. You may not be getting a guaranteed pre-order from a trade (though chances are very good that you will get it) but you might be getting a chance at three or four pre-orders from your writer friend selling to his friends.

A bit of a breakdown: I’ve been promoting books on the facebook page I set up for my novel series. I’ve been informed that people have bought "The Traveller’s Cup" three times through my referral link. These people are complete strangers to me. My guess is that they were followers of AC Baldwin’s facebook page, and, for whatever reason, they did not click through when she first advertised. Maybe it was just the volume, the fact that someone other than the author was recommending it, or maybe it was something I said, but when AC Baldwin shared my post on her page, these three people decided to click through and purchase the book. Score 3 for outside support.

Meanwhile, I’m told that three people clicked through my link for "Amaranth Chronicles", and two for "A God in the Shed". I can’t tell if these people bought the books they clicked through for, as I neglected to include a referral code for them, but it’s possible that they did. (The one person I do know who bought "A God in the Shed" through my referral link, I’m pretty sure bought it through my Inkshares recommendation.) At the very least, it means that between three and five people have clicked through and "entered the store", at which point it is up to the respective authors to entice these potential readers with their samples and their blurbs.

(This is why I polish my sample excerpts and worry about getting them to a high shine: they need to be as close to representative of the final product as they possibly can.)

Two or three clickthroughs per recommendation doesn’t seem like much, but it’s still something; and perhaps the issue is I need more visibility. Perhaps if I could get a like/share from more than just the affected author, it could boost the visibility of each recommendation and get more clickthroughs and thus, the potential for more sales.

Selling to each other keeps all the interest within Inkshares. It’s stagnation. Selling to our audiences outside of Inkshares brings readers into Inkshares (weren’t we complaining about a lack of this earlier?) and multiplies the potential audience for each writer by the number of other writers willing to support them. This is why I think we should trade support, not trade pre-orders.

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

Jeremy. Okay, it would seem from your FAQ sheet that while you are happy for Mom and Dad to buy ten copies of our books, asking another author to buy ten copies of our books isn’t encouraged? The purchases are meant to reflect peoples interest in our writing skills...but as you say the site has a 10 to 1 reader ratio so is not likely to assist from that angle. Don’t get me wrong, I love the site and it’s basic concept...but thats a massive flaw in your game plan if you’re seeking to build a substantial base of free market creativity. Once an author has reached publishing they won’t progress unless the quality of their work is up to scratch...they won’t get past editing stage. Your site however will still receive funding to publish if they succeed. Maybe rather than getting authors to beta test your site, you should be coming up with some kind of benefit to compensate for the situation you have now created? I think you will see a substantial change in the site now you have "fixed" the bug. I hope I’m wrong.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Jeremy Thomas not really. the discussion is not dichotomous Jeremy: while on one side of the curve you have "holier than the pope" good guys like Chris H (that may yet change his views once he’ll start the campaign) - on the other side you have lots of shades of grey. while i think that going bluntly to say order my book so i get credit then i order yours is somewhat wrong, some people may think it’s legitimate. between us you will not get a book published like that anyways, so if it boosts your momentum, maybe it should be allowed.

I for instance reciprocate with every order i get from an author, is this wrong? i still brought 70% of my own crowd.. maybe more - and it’s hard work! if i needed to bring 100% of my base, i might as well self publish on amazon... I also think that whilst it’s good that u can only order and get credit one per person - if by fixing "the bug" u intend not to give credits for more than one referral - than you will see Inkshares dying (or at least with very little authors) very soon.... i m more than happy to discuss my views on a more personal forum

Christopher Huang · Author · edited about 8 years ago

Actually, I wouldn’t be the first. Browsing through the Goodreads threads, I see that Cara Weston has also explained the same. I bring it up here because, from the discussion below, it looked as though you might have been unaware of how the system is supposed to work.

And no, they won’t retroactively remove any credits you may have accrued. I have their promise on that. In return, I’m simply ignoring and trashing any credits I receive for "A God in the Shed" and "Amaranth Chronicles", on account of having already received and accepted three sets of credits for "The Traveller’s Cup". Kind of broke my heart this morning, when I was notified of credits for "A God in the Shed".

Mike Donald · Reader · added about 8 years ago

Lets pray they don’t retrospectivley remove all benefits from the bug and de publish the few authors that benifitted.,.which would provoke a mass bail out from Inkshares and end of a promising start up...oops.

Mike Donald · Reader · added about 8 years ago

OMG if i understand this correctly Mr C Huang has just become the most villified man on Inkshares:) I may be alone in wondering...but why would u enquire about a bug providing one of the few ways to sell any bloody books at all on this site? Just saying:)

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

I have e-mailed Inkshares about the credit referral system and how it is supposed to work.

You are supposed to only receive ONE set of credits for EACH book you have recommended/referred. Previous discussion elsewhere tells me that this also applies to your own books: ONE set of credits only.

So if you’ve already received credits from someone using your referral code to buy your book, you really should stop giving out the code in conjunction with your book. You’re exploiting a bug in the system.

If you’ve already received credits from someone using your referral code to buy someone else’s book, you should not be accepting any further credits from that book. Again, it’s a bug in the system. Don’t exploit it.

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

Just chipping in here. This is my first novel, first crowdfunding, first attempting to use FB to sell product, first attempt to use Twitter etc.

So the first month was just learning about the system. There are very many counter intuitive angles to the site. God knows how many sales I’ve lost because customers can’t navigate through the system. Even standing next to them and guiding them through the system is annoying.

First port of call your pipeline...well u soon get through that. Pitch via INKSHARES, limited number of characters...why? I’m selling my book not asking foe a lift by the side of the road. Twitter, equally annoying, having to put your ref code and pitch the book is well nigh impossible.

My conversion rate on INKSHARES via Tweet and Pitch is about 30%...my conversion from pitch through e-mail is 100%...

Email gives you room to make your pitch personal, and add your ref code. Just use the INKSHARES pitch to ask for an Email so u can do a better pitch. Referrals should be simple...but boy, people just don’t get it. It’s the psychology of a man trying to give away a briefcase full of money in the street...there must be a catch...also people are ADD, by the time they’ve agreed to swap codes and you’ve bought their book they’ve forgotten and moved on...that’s a people problem, nothing you can do but nag...friends are the worst...6 weeks from enthusiastic promises is about normal.

There may be about 4000 people involved on INKSHARES, but I don’t think there’s that many funding...and they are the only people who will be interested in trading codes...but people who have 20 days left and five sales still don’t get that they have to sell their book to get published. I sometimes, if I like a book, I’ll throw money/credits at it...it’s a gamble, maybe it will boost the author out of his hypersleep, maybe he’ll reciprocate, maybe he wont. I recently bought 10 of a book...nothing happened, this author is probably not going to move up to quill, I’ll get my money back...

I’ve backed all the top ten of the Nerdist Space Opera books...I’ve done reviews, recs, pitched my customers etc, and forget the number of friends and family...that’s a poltical and personal nightmare. Easier to approach the homeless in the street :)

INKSHARES needs to have a better readership...selling to other people who also want to sell to you is a finite game. Not many people have 750 friends who are going to buy their book...most people don’t seem to understand that a pre-order is no guarantee of a book.

This is a longwinded way of replying to those of you struggling, and Joni’s points in previous posts. Without a readership base you are pretty soon down to emailing everybody you know in your address book and crafting an individual pitch...and that is draining.

Now the Nerdist contest is coming to an end it will probably be easier engage people in non "SciFi" novels. I have a few credits so if anybody needs a boost, feel free to hit my code and I’ll reciprocate. Preferably those of you I haven’t already purchased...but that probably limits me as I’ve pretty much bought from most of you :) So as long as I haven’t bought 10 of your books email me and we can work something out. Or just hit HERE and I’ll get the message :)

Here’s my email: touchwoodpicturesltd

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

PS Last night I pitched Robert J Sawyer. A Hugo and Nebula award winning author and a writer than I love to read. Fun stuff!

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

Hi people -if I may chip in. Yes, it’s about self promotion but it’s also about product promotion. I’ve read your product ... all of you ... and you’ve got it or got something. Don’t sell yourself short. Get it out there. If you fail, as we all may do, fail gloriously knowing you had a crack at it. Be positive. You’re already here. You are doing more than 99% of all people will do. Run with it. It’s better than the alternative. Apologies for the preaching.

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

@RF Martin it is a struggle, and to be honest, i have started having second thoughts about using a crowdfunding platform, but since i have friends and family that supported - i will not back down. I’m like u: am terrible in self promotion - I don’t even have FB for g-d’s sake!

I keep reading comments advocating against pre-order swapping, especially vis a vis the credit system - that gives u credit for referrals. I am waiting for these voices to start a campaign and see how tough it is, think they will mellow down their rhetoric.

Inkshares was a great promise in my view, but recently i came to realize that @Faith is correct - it has no solid base of readers willing to contribute. so u need to be a salesman, which is exhausting. but you are a salesman on your own, the system offers not much in term of assistant, even the dashboard’s pipeline which i learned in the past showed prospects, in not doing this anymore :-(

I hope @Jeremy Thomas sees this mini debate and try thinking about solutions. I personally have at mom 70 pre-orders. out of which i brought into the system 70% . this may be good for Inkshares but not if the campaign falls through... so do having frustrated writers - i’m not sure it is in the best of our interests.

____ · Author · edited about 8 years ago

@Joni Dee Great, sounds good. @Peter Ryan Thanks for the kind words. They are much appreciated. I share some of the concerns of @Faith. Seems like it is easy to get followers on here, it’s another thing to get backers. I personally don’t have the funds to pre-order swap with everybody. I wish I could help out more folks. Plus, I’m terrible at self-promoting. :)

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

@Joni Dee This is my concern with Inkshares. Orders are 99% up to your family/friends. Inkshares doesn’t have a base of readers. I have personally ordered 20 books out of community spirit and the mystery-ish ones are the only ones I’d personally read (the others will end up being gifts). That means at best I should hope for 20 orders from Inkshares fellow authors. It just isn’t sustainable for writers, who are either out on a financial limb like Christopher or squeezing it in despite a day job like me. There needs to be some way to attract pure readers.

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

Good to see you here, Rob. And for those that haven’t checked out his Pixilated Obsdian Roses go have a look. The name and the cover alone make it worth a pre-order.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Welcome Rob! Glad all my wooing did its thing :P so, around the end/start of the month we suggest books for backing, then democratically vote on them and I pull the trigger on the chosen one. Welcome aboard

____ · Author · added about 8 years ago

Hey evey body! Thanks for the invite. So, how does this all work?

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Christopher Huang no worries. Thanks anyways.

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Joni Dee I know it’s hard. I’m friends-outside-of-Inkshares with a couple of other authors who are funding right now, and I’ve done some promotion on their behalf, so I know how hard and scary it is. I understand perfectly well why you asked; please don’t imagine that I’m angry or offended or anything like that.

I’m also trying to stretch my money to cover as much as I can. When I was downsized last year, I decided to go chase the dream of writing full-time. I am not receiving any form of regular income aside from what my government is giving me in the form of Employment Insurance; this is only about half what I used to get, and will only last until about October of this year. If I am to survive long enough to actually make this dream work, I am going to have to be as stingy as I can be.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Christopher Huang talk to me when you see how hard it is to collect pre-orders. then you’ll understand why i asked. PS - don’t think i can even physically order my own book even if we chose to support it.

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

Well, Joni, I kind of figure that eventually we’ll be ordering it en masse through here, right?

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

again i think this is a different thing - trying to get to the bottom of this one. Christopher - order my book please :)

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

I got the credits for "Transilience". $6.99. I’m not sure why $6.99 and not $10. And it looks as though I’d get $7.99 back in credits if "Equipment" fails to fund.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Mike you won’t get credit for Transcillience as u weren’t a member yet. what u see is some technical line that gives you credit for the syndicate i believe before it makes its selection, but i m trying to find this out with MGMT as well. cheers all!

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Equipment is still funding. Transcillience went back to draft mode and we should get credit for it. Checking this with MGMT.

also, trying to recruit new members to the Syndicate, such as @RF Martin , please help me get more members gang.

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

I think I got credits for TRANSILIENCE....not that I take any pleasure from that...I like to try and get authors

over the line, and was sorry it didn’t create momentum...I do what I can.

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

I do not believe I got credit for Transilience. I also do not think I got credit for Equipment. Thanks for checking into this.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Did you all get credit back for Transillience?

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

Looking forward to this one funding.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Faith @Christopher Huang still waiting for you guys to support the wolf ;-) going to pull the trigger on @Hesse Caplinger book from the syndicate. thanks!

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

Ha, Hesse doesn’t have to defend himself from me...he has a style, and that’s worth a lot in the writing game...I’m used to a faster read and about ten seconds to engage a reader or be deleted on a computer :)

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

Good timing, hey :-)

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Noted. Waiting for the record for Thad a day or two. I personally like Hesse’s distinctive figurativic language, kinda when Hemmingway meets Clancy if you may... Will let him defend himself though ;-)

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Lol. U responded a minute after I asked :D

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

Apologies for the late response it’s relatively early here in Seoul.

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

I’m still heading for Equipment as I already have Tears of the Assassin - if that makes sense.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Oups I commented before this new post.

Cool "Tears of The Assassin "is Mike’s vote. @Peter Ryan Peter, what’s your final vote? @Thaddeus Woodman Thad, any chance you’ll get this month?

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Mike Donald the deadline is 15th , you are allowed your own opinion off-course! I’d suggest that you nominate your own candidate, even if this month would be for the protocol

- still this is a valid debate and exchange of ideas and yours are as good as any!

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

Okay, I’ll cast my radical vote...Tears Of The Assassin. It has conflict, an inciting incident a downtrodden hero and a good pace...and at least I’m voting for one of our group. Hesse has enough votes to keep him happy, so it’s only fair I be the firebrand of the group...and whatever comments I make are as the soft caress of a butterfly on a hot summer neck compared to the editing hell that will be unleashed upon you once you go to publishing...and it’s better to be critiqued within the group before you step out into the cold :)

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

I have to say in its present state this is so over descriptive it kills the forward momentum of the read...am I to assume this will be heavily edited at some stage...no one likes lurid prose more than me, and I’m also the new boy here, I’m not sure how many other books were in the running...if this is our vote...and always difficult if we’re voting for each other...so take my comments with due diligence Hesse :) Its just I find this version over stylised at the moment where every thing that happens is just described for too long. I come from screenwriting so maybe my senses are too attuned to padding out descriptions. Maybe "mannered" writing is a different style, in which case this has it in spades...anyway, my vote won’t worry anybody, so I’ll hold off until I’ve read some more unless there is a deadline?

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

August bore a tender bruise on his cheek and a livid mar at the cleave of his right ear, it was dressed and taped and he pressed it from time to time softly with the palm of his hand. August and Kyle Lewis, and Phillip and Edmund LeFrance had shouldered the reluctant skid of a door and mounted the stair of the vacant apartment house at the verge of Nebraska and Keokuk and now waited together on the second floor. It was a 9:00 a.m. meet now waxing 9:43 a.m., and August was tired and scuffed and cross with impatience, and running an appetite. He paced about the small kitchen peppered in mouse droppings and Borax dust, and was tentatively cupping at his ear when Phillip called to him from the front room.

Is this the pre- edited version? What is a livid MAR? What is the reluctant SKID of a door? I’ll read more of this but not wild about this yet :) I’m allowed to be picky as my vote through sheer numeracy doesn’t really count :)

Mike Donald · Author · added about 8 years ago

If I need to vote I’d better check on EQUIPMENT :)

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

I am waiting for Bill and Mike, though they are for the record only as it seemed that 5 of us want to back Equipment...

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

I think Equipment is the book to support this month but RF Martin’s Pixilated Obsidian Roses is also worth a look - if only for the title! Mr. Martin certainly has a deft descriptive touch and may be worth future consideration.

William Schiele · Author · edited about 8 years ago

I have enjoyed the chapters of Equipment. Hesse uses very intricate and articulate language to create scenes of exquisite detail. His taciturn hero is a unique character that holds my interest and is a very compelling emotional entry into his strange and unpredictable world. Let’s support Equipment this month.

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

What Christopher said. Equipment looks cool. Let’s boost the quality stuff regardless of our preconceived ideas of its funding success or not.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Mike Donald Welcome aboard Mike - very good to have you with us!

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

on a different note - please support"the Wolf" using : https://www.inkshares.com/books/and-the-wolf-shall-dwell?referral_code=d9c1458b it is now a preorder campaign!

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

I vote Equipment. We’re not here to back sure winners, but to support books in funding, whatever their chances.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Faith lol. I’d be damned if we back the same book twice ;-)

reader · Reader · edited about 8 years ago

I vote Transilience. EDIT: Oops - I meant Equipment - long day.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

March is upon us and it’s time to raise books for our backing. I still think we should support ourselves, but how do the rest of you feel? I am raising again Hesse’s Equipment for backing. even though it may not reach it’s goal. Our backing from last month Transilience isn’t likely to reach it’s goal as well, the question is do we want two misses in a row (no offense Hesse - you still have my vote but as the lead i feel obliged to raise these questions). Time to suggest the alternatives guys and form a short list.

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Joni Dee thanks very much!

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Peter Ryan welcome aboard Peter!

Peter Ryan · Author · added about 8 years ago

William sent me your way. Thanks for the heads up, mate.

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

@Joni Dee I’ve joined several mystery groups but I suspect that even after time, your conversion rate to pre-orders will be similarly low as from Inkshares. In my opinion those groups are better for getting reviewed once you do have the book out there, and for gauging what people are liking in the genre.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

There are at least three thriller/mystery devoted groups on goodreads. The problem is you need to be an active member, they wouldn’t stand blind promotions. Check them out beforehand.

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

@William Schiele thanks! I have not tried Facebook groups, I think all the options come down to hard work. The book promotion groups I’ve seen tend to be mostly authors and so less interested in new books. As a reader, I wouldn’t join one unless it was limited to the genre I cared about, so any blanket promotion groups seem like they’ll provide limited ROI.

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

Faith, I like your new smile. My campaign for Tears of the Assassin has been going forward rather steadily but my pragmatic side fears the day when I have exhausted all my friends and family who have, so far, been incredibly generous. I have posted on over a dozen "Book Promotion" groups on Facebook so I’m curious to see if I get anything from that. Have any of you explored Facebook groups and found anything promising?

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

@Hesse Caplinger Very true. You make the marketing people sound like Cinderella labouring behind the scenes of the internet... very nice.

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

Anyone else thinking about promotional strategies like blogging or social media? I started a blog and an Instagram account. I’m curious to see how many followers I can get by summertime but short of writing amazing content, I’ll have to go follow and engage in other blogs to get more followers. I have a feeling it’s going to be a long slog. I seriously thought writing the book was the hardest bit, ha!

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

@Faith A. Faith, what happened to your face?? Hettie took over your icon... bring it back bring it back..

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Will do! Cheers William.

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

Joni, Thanks for checking out my campaign page. The 90 day period is what Inkshares suggests as the ideal time period for a campaign. I accepted the suggested time since I was aware that you can request an extension of the campaign as the deadline nears. I hope to be successful fast but I will extend as necessary.

Thanks so much for your preorder. I really appreciate the support and I look forward to working with you as your project nears its campaign debut. Please let your whole network know about Tears of the Assassin.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

William, a quick one - when u started funding why did you choose such a short time frame? i see u are due in 90 days where some people have 6 month, As someone who will attempt to fund next month, would be great if you can walk me through it... thanks.

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

Thanks Faith and Joni, I appreciate your being so Chill. It does seem to me that promoting our books is the point of the whole thing. I’m a happy member of the Thriller Syndicate.

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

@Joni Dee Oh no I totally missed that! I will email you now!

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Nah we’re all chilled here William..

Faith you disappeared on me.. I uploaded a new chapter. Would love if u read. Also send me an email to ydital(at)gmail.com if you care to discuss. Thanks!

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

We’re mainly authors here and I think it is completely fine to give a shout out to your book, especially if you are in the syndicate. Should be a perk of membership. ;-)

William Schiele · Author · edited about 8 years ago

Thank you Christopher. I appreciate your perspective.

I did check out Dick Francis over the weekend. He was a prolific writer whose books fit in this genre’ but I haven’t gotten a hold of any to read yet. The post I read said he teamed with his wife and together they wrote a book a year for like 15 years. All his books featured horse racing in some element of the background or location for the story. He seemed to have lived an interesting life. Thanks for the suggestion.

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

Well, they’ve got way more people over there, so I expect they want to keep the airwaves as clear as possible. We can afford to be more relaxed here, at least for now. I certainly wasn’t upset or offended.

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

Are any of you offended by my promotional post for my book? I posted the same thing in the CEO Syndicate and I upset several people. I do not wish to offend anyone and perhaps I have used the discussion inappropriately. I apologize if this has upset any of you and I will no longer self promote in the syndicate discussion. Thank you.

William Schiele · Author · edited about 8 years ago

Tears of the Assassin has begun its publishing campaign. Please give the chapters a read and comment on them for me. I hope you enjoy the story. Thanks.

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

Music to my ears this intro to Hesse Caplinger. I adore Greene, I now adore Caplinger. where do you write?

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

Tears of the Assassin is now a draft. Please pop on over and have a read. I’m eager for some feedback and grateful for your time. Thanks.

https://www.inkshares.com/books/tears-of-the-assassin

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

Thanks for the elaborated bio William.. i see u decided to drop the Lion front ;-)

I will prob go ahead with funding myself next month - i have a weeks’ holiday planned back home, so when grandparents can look after their kids i m hoping for some time to write/edit/finalize :-)

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

@William Schiele , have you read any Dick Francis? I’ve only read three or four out of his rather significant body of work, but I get the impression that he does "little guy somehow overcoming overwhelming odds" reeeally well.

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

My fellow Thriller Night Syndicate members, I appreciate your biographies. I live in Rochester NY where I teach Anatomy & Physiology at a local University. My children are all in college now and their growth has allowed me time to delve more seriously into the creative writing I have done all my life. I am impressed with the authors listed as your favorites in all your pieces but I will openly admit that my writing is influenced by films as well as novels, action-adventure films to be specific. Movies like the Jason Bourne series, Mission Impossible, and of course James Bond have all helped me form the plots and characters within my stories. I enjoy similar television series, 24, Alias, Nikita, Person of Interest, Sons of Anarchy. I enjoy stories where the characters are pinned against circumstances from which they must make a decision to act in a manner that is often violent to resolve their situations. The best plots involve a big problem, like saving a business, a family a community or the world with the infusion of more intimate personal problems, the safety of a loved one, a valuable cherished object or a personal secret. I like dialogue that is crisp and clear yet also nuanced and thought provoking. I like action that is purposeful and essential to moving the story forward not just used to fill time and space. I like secret’s that unfold slowly and only after the reveal do the clues, which were there all the time, make sense from a changed perspective. I like to see the downtrodden rise and the mighty fall with neither of those trips being easy or easily accepted and understood by characters that never saw the approach of their changed predicaments.

Novelists that have inspired my writing include Vince Flynn, Brad Thor, Tom Clancy, Raymond Benson and a special acknowledgment to Mark Greaney whose Gray Man series helped me find my character’s voice.

My novel, Tears of the Assassin, will be coming forward as a draft very soon and I’ll be very grateful for your time and energy spent reading the chapters. I benefit from critical remarks. I have found the best editors, are frank about what they didn’t like or found confusing. Their honest assessment helps me see my writing through the reader’s eye. With a new perspective I can adjust passages, wording and whole sections to better convey the story. Editing is the key to good writing. As an author I strive to write from my imagination while seeing the story from the reader’s eye. I look forward to sharing this experience with you. Thank you.

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

The noir side of Mars, what a cool concept. I find Kevin’s writing to be very well paced, engaging and makes me feel like Mars is a pretty cool place. Let’s hope the Syndicate’s choice inspires others to select this book for themselves. All the best Mr. Bragg.

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

pulled the trigger for our first backing... lets see if it will pick up, he hasn’t got much time left

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

nice to see this has picked up.. Christopher - how did u end up in Montreal then, i wonder?

I live in the UK, London. I moved here 5 years ago for work. I am not actually English.. half Canadian (English side though, Toronto & Niagara area) and other half Israeli, where i actually grew up. I am married with two small kids - 2 years and 4 month .. so you can expect to hear from me also at 1am Main Greenwich Time :-)

I like thrillers, especially spies like Le Carré, but i also like the occasional SciFi and Romance.. One of my favorite books is "Perfect Spy" by Le Carré - if you haven’t read it, this is a true textbook to making spy novels. In contrast I love quirky classics like "The Master and Margarita" by Bulgakov & Historical Fiction. And i absolutely love political thrillers, if they are good (i find them hard to find). Only lately i gotten into crime and mysteries, i strongly recommend Derek Raymond, which is the British ultimate noir detective books (first one is calles "He Died With His Eyes Closed"). I read mainly in the tube ride to and fro work, as you can imagine that at home i am quite swamped!!

That’t me, trying to push on my novel at nights though pessimistic in nature i can’t imagine it published .. hope i will be proven wrong :-)

Christopher Huang · Author · edited about 8 years ago

I live in Montreal, where I can barely communicate in French. I used to read a lot, but I seem to have mostly fallen out of the habit. One friend has commented that I give the impression of being very well-read, though; I think it’s probably because the stuff that I do read isn’t what most of my peers read. It looks like I’ve gone beyond them when in fact I wasn’t with them to begin with: science-fiction usually makes my eyes glaze over, and while I don’t mind fantasy, it doesn’t really excite me.

I like Agatha Christie. I like Anthony Trollope’s handling of the third-person-omniscient voice; for a while, everything I wrote sounded like watered-down Trollope. I like Arturo Perez-Reverte’s "Alatriste" series and am waiting for the latest instalment ("The Bridge of the Assassins") to finally come out in English at my local bookstores.

I’m fairly active in the Interactive Fiction community. I’ve written a few games for the annual Interactive Fiction Competition in October. Every year for the past seven years, I’ve written the Breakfast Reviews, in which I compare each of the Competition games with a breakfast dish. Interactive Fiction, for me, is all about the puzzle; so are detective stories. My love for detective stories and my love for interactive fiction are not unrelated: I love them for the same reason, the intellectual challenge couched in relatable human prose.

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

Sounds good John, thanks for wrangling this.

Not sure how much detail but here goes. I live in the Seattle area and I mostly read and write 1920’s British murder mysteries. I love the human details, suspense and intellectual puzzle of mysteries. My favorite authors are Ngaio Marsh, Agatha Christie, Helen MacInnes, Ian Fleming, Neil Gaiman and William Gibson.

I do read other genres on occasion. I’ve also written fantasy and YA novels but although I finished them, I don’t think they’re good enough to publish.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Ok guys thanks. so unless late moment dramatic change - on Sat i’m gonna pull the trigger on @Kevin Bragg ’s "Transilience". hopefully our endorsement will carry its weight.

For next month at mom we have Hesse "Equipement" unless anyone see a reason not to.

Besides i thought a bit of background could be good.. if members wish to introduce themselves rather than to keep anonymity?

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

Sounds like a plan. I think Thad is a cofounder of Inkshares so I don’t know how much time he has to spare.

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

I’m with William.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

noted William. thanks.

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

Joni, Thanks for managing this syndicate business. My position is we should give Thad until Friday and after that day go with the votes that we’ve already got. Thank you.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Guys, without @Thaddeus Woodman vote ( i even emailed him) do I just take the majority popular vote and back Transilience ? he has until Friday...

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

vote count at mom 3 Transilience : 2 Equipment. with Equipment on the short list for next month in any case, as Faith A nominated it. waiting to Thad to cast his vote...

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

@Hesse Caplinger I established that author votes for his work unless he says otherwise- and needn’t apologies for it. It goes without saying to save people feeling unnecessary embarrassment if they do. (see my post from 6 days ago)

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

still waiting for Thad’s vote, if it’s Hesse it’s a tie and we go to a 2nd round. if it’s Brag or Flint - "Thriller Night" will pull the trigger on Brag’s Transilience this month... what a thriller...

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

My vote will go to Hesse's "Equipment". I liked "Transilience" a lot, i must admit, but part of my choice is that I think supporting a SciFi thriller, sends the wrong message. Maybe it's a bit daft, but I prioritize a good old fashion spy/crime novel for our purposes...

@Thaddeus Woodman - Thad, your vote will put a seal on the ballot boxes... but still time.

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

I vote for Transilience. I like the writing and the premise and I think, although it's set in Mars, it evokes a lot about the human condition and that is not to be overlooked in what makes a good thriller.

reader · Reader · edited about 8 years ago

My vote would be Transilience this month because the story seems well developed, has an interesting premise (detective on Mars, nice genre split) and a limited amount of time left. Next month I'd do Hesse's Equipment because it's a really interesting premise that has strong potential and I like the opening. Both are strong examples of thriller. The only reason I picked Transilience is because Hesse's book has a longer funding period and I think we could do it next month (and should since he's a member, I really do agree with endorsing our stuff).

I'm less interested in endorsing Piper's story only because it feels a lot more like SciFi and that's well covered on Inkshares IMO.

Joni Dee · Author · edited about 8 years ago

Christopher - noted. care to elaborate? convince the jury?

Faith - drop me an email ydital(at)gmail.com when you can

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

My vote's for Transilience.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Ok, so we have a short short list this time round

1- Kevin Bragg "Transilience"

2- Hesse Caplinger "Equipment"

3- Piper flint "Isolation"

Please get familiar with these three and post in your vote by 5th Feb so we have a few more days of deliberations in case of a tie. Please take under consideration the story, quality of writing and the stage of funding (I.e. If our votes can tip the scale or if the book's funding stage is about to end etc.). Feel free to post your vote as soon as you decided and try to convince the others. Hesse I'm assuming your vote is for your own book, you needn't vote - that's understandable and will be counted as such. Thanks all!

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Nah... Democratic vote. I'm just the executional monkey!!

reader · Reader · edited about 8 years ago

Sounds like a great idea to be an endorsement for books! As the lead I think John should pick, but I think Hesse's book and Transilence are both good options (maybe doing the earlier one first then the later one as long as we can fit them both). The other two recommended look interesting too.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Right. Inkshares response:

Q- how and when do I physically Pull the Trigger as the syndicate lead?

A- Syndicate members are charged every month on the 1st. The syndicate lead, then, has between the 1st and 15th of each month to select a book.

Q- what happens to our investment should a Book fail?

A- If a supported book fails, syndicate members are issued credits that can be used to back other books independently.

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

I think we should concentrate on the ones which are still in funding and need support; stuff that's already available, we can get on our own time. Also, we should obviously support ourselves. Hesse Caplinger's "Equipment" has 76 days to go right now; we can probably wait a month or two, but eventually I think we should back it. Personally, I'd like to back Kevin Bragg's "Transilience", which has 41 days to go.

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

@JoniDee - how does the syndicate work, if we put our backing on a book that doesn't hit production does that mean we get the $ back for another book after the funding period is over? If so, maybe we could look at each month alternating between a book in production and then a book trying to get funding as a nice split?

For books that are in production, Kris Calvin's One Murder More is available. Another book in funding and at 500 orders is Patrick Sheane Duncan's Dracula v. Hitler. Both fit the thriller category, although the latter is also a fantasy-ish story.

What are the two you were looking at?

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Anyone can think of Thrillers for a backing short-list, for our first nomination ?
i saw two potentials, thought they are unlikely to hit production.. should this be a factor?

also should we publish a short-list? let guys try to up their act two weeks to get our votes or is it too pretentious?

love to hear your thoughts...

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Welcome aboard @William Schiele ! Thanks for info regarding ITW, but as not published aspiring authors , do you think we are eligible to join? I tried reading in the website, but save the debut program, membership seems reserved to published authors or patrons. N'est pas? Maybe I missed something...

William Schiele · Author · added about 8 years ago

I'm happy to join the syndicate. I agree that support for this genre is something which can grow and develop on Inkshares. As our syndicate succeeds we will attract more thriller writers. Many of you may already be aware of the International Thriller Writer's society, but if not you can check out this link: http://thrillerwriters.org/

ITW promotes the writing of thriller authors and sponsors the annual Thrillerfest which is a convention for those interested in the reading and writing of Thrillers.

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Great stuff!! Wow luckily the kids keep waking me up - LOL (crying in the inside...) as I think this will generate a lot of new reading material for me... Cheers everyone.. Spread the word!

reader · Reader · added about 8 years ago

Glad we got this syndicate together! I created a group on GoodReads for the syndicate, it seems like the other syndicates are doing it. https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/181627-inkshares-thriller-night-syndicate

Christopher Huang · Author · added about 8 years ago

Great. I can now tell people that I'm paying money every month to a crime syndicate....

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

Ah thanks for clarifying!! At least there's still hope for this then

Joni Dee · Author · added about 8 years ago

well... the likes weren't flowing as expected, but i decided to give it a try... so this is -hopefully- the platform for thriller and suspense novels here. there aren't too many ; so unless we have to, not sure there will be a selection each and every month (at first). This will be a democracy, so each member can raise a book for backing, and before we pull the trigger - will be a vote.

one more thing - SciFi and Fantasy lovers are welcomed! if they have thriller/mystery touch to it, will be gladly considered.

Hope i wont be talking to myself too long!

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