That First Sentence

This trigger happy cat has nothing on me today.

This one is for the writers out there. Today I started a Fast Draft with the goal of writing one chapter a day for the next two weeks. For the first time I decided to plot the book out before I sat down to write it. I have my notes for chapter one in front of me, and I have a scene worksheet that describes my intended setting, characters and goals for the scene. With everything organized, and my cup of coffee by my side, I opened up Microsoft Word to begin the first chapter.

It took me ten minutes to come up with my opening line - and I'm still not sure I'm in love with it. When I pick up a book I'm always drawn to those awesome first lines that really grab me. I think MaryJanice Davidson had a first line that went something like this - "The day I died started off bad and only got worse from there."

How can you not love that first line? It raises all kinds of questions and it's funny as well. Mine? Not so much. But I'm attempting to write a chapter a day so I can't exactly sit here and play with one line for the rest of the day. So I moved on.

My question is, what kind of first line attracts you? If the first scene doesn't grab your attention how long will you keep reading before you decide the book is not for you? Do you remember a first line that hooked you right then and there?

Articles on the future of ebooks

I can't tell you how many people look at me in a strange, confused way when I tell them that my books are ebooks. "What in the hell is an ebook?" Then I explain to them that they can only download my book onto their computer (I don't mention any devices like the Kindle at first because if they don't know what an ebook is, I highly doubt they own a kindle.) I do eventually start chatting with them about the special devices they can use so they can take their ebooks with them anywhere they go. It doesn't matter what I say, or how well I sell it, eighty percent of the time the person I'm talking to says they just have to have that book in their hand.

Well, why not have numerous books in your hand?

The Kindle holds over 200 titles. It also has wireless technology so you can download books from the back of a taxi or when you're waiting in a doctor's office. Now, I'm not going to do a whole blog post on the wonders of the Kindle and how it's simple and easy to download books and magazines to the device. I want to give you an idea of what's out there. Last little note on the Kindle, it's currently $359.00 at Amazon right now - it's also currently sold out.

The Sony PRS-700BC Reader Digital Book is another wireless device you can use to read your favorite ebooks or magazines. This is listed at $399.00 on Amazon and it's in stock. This is a little of what they have to say about the product :

Imagine holding a library of books conveniently in one hand. Begin a new chapter with the PRS-700BC Reader Digital Book. Boasting an impressive 6.0-inch, touch screen display, this Reader uses paper-like E Ink technology which makes it easier to read, even in bright-light situations. In addition to a built-in light, there's an interactive touch screen that lets you turn pages with the slide of a finger or activate the bookmark. You can also create annotations with a virtual keyboard, highlight text with a stylus pen, search for text in your digital book, and easily adjust the font size. A faster processor gives you quicker response times when opening content or turning pages. Ideal for travelers or people who like to read while on the go, the PRS-700BC holds approximately 320 digital books. - Go HERE to read all of the description.

So, what's in store for the future of ebooks? Forbes.com has a great article on the future of ebooks. The article covers new technology for electronic readers. Some ebook readers have backlights and other great add-ons. What I covered above is only the beginning.

So, if you haven't checked out the devices associated with ebooks, the above links are a great start. Here's a few other links to articles that might give you a better idea on what an ebook is, and what the future may bring.

TeleRead : Bring the Ebooks Home - Ex-eReader employee on the past and future of ebooks.

BusinessWeek - The Future of Ebooks - Software and consumer-electronics giants as well as some investors are joining the publishing world for the rise of e-books. First stop: higher ed

Planet Ebook - The Possible Future of eBooks and Print Publishers.

Pocket PC Thoughts - The Future of Ebooks.

First Review For Asmodeus

Here's a snippet ~ Paranormal Romance has a new champion and her name is Dawn McClure! I’m delighted to say that ASMODEUS was every bit the five star novel I’ve come to expect from this incredible new author. I loved everything from her characters to the enthralling paranormal setting she's created. Believe me when I say Asmodeus is a must read for romance fans everywhere! ~ Crave More Romance

Click HERE to read the whole review.

I'm busy writing Ronove right now and keeping up with emails. It's a warm 45 degrees here in Michigan today, so that's good! Especially considering it was -4 the other day.